Province Launches Review of Local Shipbuilding Capacity for Future Ferry Construction

The Newfoundland and Labrador government has issued a request for proposals seeking a consultant to assess whether the province’s shipbuilding industry has the capacity to construct three new ferries for the intra-provincial ferry fleet.

The successful consultant will evaluate the province’s current shipbuilding capabilities and determine what would be required to support future ferry construction projects within Newfoundland and Labrador.

The assessment will include consultations with shipyard operators, vessel designers, construction companies, labour representatives and government partners. The review will examine existing infrastructure, workforce capacity, industry skills requirements and overall readiness for large-scale ferry construction.

Government officials said the final report will identify gaps within the industry and recommend strategies to address them. The report is also expected to outline workforce training requirements, infrastructure upgrades and potential investment opportunities needed to support a sustainable and competitive shipbuilding sector in the province.

The request for proposals closes Aug. 6, 2026, although the deadline may be adjusted if necessary. The completed report is expected to be delivered in late fall 2026.