Marine Atlantic to enter five-year lease with European ferry

There will be a new ferry shuttling between Newfoundland and Cape Breton this year.

The ferry service that operates between Nova Scotia and Newfoundland has announced it is getting a new vessel.

Marine Atlantic has entered into a five-year charter agreement with Swedish shipping line Stena to lease the A Nepita ferry.

The A Nepita is equipped with three bow thrusters, is ice-class rated and designed to transport both passenger and commercial vehicles.

It is also equipped with cabins, restaurants, and seating areas.

Marine Atlantic says the vessel will increase its overall capacity, though it needs to be modified so it can integrate with its docking infrastructure.

The ferry was most recently operated by French shipping company Corsica Linea on the Marseilles to Corsica service.

It is scheduled to arrive in Canada this summer.

“Marine Atlantic is looking forward to the positive impact this addition will have on operations and the service provided to customers,” reads a Tuesday news release from the corporation.

“Further updates will be provided as work progresses towards the integration of this ship into the fleet.”

Marine Atlantic says the goal is for the vessel to enter service in the fall.

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