N.S.-Maine ferry sees uptick in bookings, but downward trend of Canadian travellers continues

The CAT Ferry is pictured in Yarmouth, N.S., on June 5, 2025. (CTV Atlantic / Jonathan MacInnis)

The ferry between Nova Scotia and Maine is reporting an increase in bookings for August compared to July, but the downward trend of Canadians travelling to its American neighbour is continuing.

The CAT, which is operated by Bay Ferries Limited, offers trips from Yarmouth, N.S., to Bar Harbor, Maine, from May to November. So far, 33,832 people have reserved spots on the vessel this season.

The company says 9,219 passengers have booked travel on the ferry between July 8 and Aug. 14, which represents a 37 per cent increase month-to-month.

“July was a strong month and indicators are very good for a continued strong performance for the remainder of August and into September,” said Mark Wilson, chief executive officer of Bay Ferries Limited, in a news release. “We are holding very close to last year in terms of American bookings for the service as travel into Nova Scotia and the Maritimes remains strong.”

The company notes a “significant drop” in Canadian bookings is contributing to an overall year-to-year decline in passenger bookings. As of Aug. 14, 2024, a total of 40,950 had booked spots on the CAT.

“It’s clear that the national trends of Canadians choosing not to visit the United States are having an impact on overall passenger numbers,” Wilson said.

So far this year, the CAT has made 70 round trips.

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