Request for Proposals issued for additional swing vessel

The province has issued a Request for Proposals to secure an additional swing vessel to provide relief on provincial ferry routes serving Fogo Island-Change Islands, and Bell Island.

When regularly assigned ferries are out of operation for maintenance, repairs or refits, swing vessels fill the void. They can also be deployed to supplement service during periods of high demand.

The RFP seeks a vessel with capacity for 100–250 passengers and a vehicle deck of 250–400 lane metres, similar to the MV Legionnaire and MV Veteran.

The vessel must be capable of year-round operation in typical ice conditions for Bell Island and Fogo Island, be less than 25 years old at delivery, and be compatible with existing dock infrastructure.

Currently, the province operates two swing vessels: the MV Beaumont Hamel and the MV Sound of Islay. An additional swing vessel, the MV Astron W, is under contract until March 31, 2026.