New Ferry Service Begins on Northern Labrador Coast

Residents of northern Labrador communities are able to drive their vehicles onto their north coast ferry and continue their travels at their destination.

Labrador Marine Inc.’s MV Kamutik W, the ferry formerly known as MV Hiiumaa, arrived in Happy Valley-Goose Bay on Sunday evening began transporting passengers, vehicles and freight to the north coast Tuesday.

The fully-accessible, seven-year-old roll on, roll off vessel will travel weekly to Rigolet, Makkovik, Postville, Hopedale, Natuashish, and Nain and replaces the 48-year-old MV Astron and the 33-year-old MV Northern Ranger. It will also travel once every two weeks to Cartwright and Black Tickle during the summer and once per month during the fall.

Rates have also been lowered approximately 60 per cent for passengers and approximately 40 per cent for freight.

The vessel can transport 250 passengers, up to 200 vehicles, a maximum of nine tractor-trailers, and 125 units of freight.

In addition, the vessel can dock and unload bow or stern first, has ramps more compatible with docks on the north coast, is 1A ice class certified, is capable of operating to standard in heavy sea ice conditions, and has a full service cafeteria and modern washrooms.