June 19, 1997
(Works, Services and Transportation)
The following is being distributed at the request of Marine
Atlantic:
Gulf Ferry Service Begins Summer Schedule
Marine Atlantic begins its summer schedule Friday, June 20. An
increased number of sailings is in effect until August 31,
bringing the number of round trips from North Sydney, Nova Scotia
to Port aux Basques up to 15 every week. There are also three
weekly round trips from North Sydney to Argentia.
"We're very encouraged by the increase in passengers so
far this year," said Peter McInnis, general manager of gulf
services. "The number of people travelling in the first half
of June was up 15 per cent over last year."
McInnis noted that passenger numbers are expected to rise
throughout the summer as people travel to Newfoundland to
celebrate John Cabot's arrival there 500 years ago. However,
there is still plenty of space available to accommodate those who
want to go to Newfoundland for the Cabot 500 celebrations.
"Approximately 46 per cent of our total available
passenger vehicle space over the summer has been booked as of
today," said Lloyd Wilkie, manager of reservation services.
"That leaves over half of our space still open. We are
getting busier as the season starts, but we don't anticipate
having any problem handling the expected traffic."
When passengers arrive they will undoubtedly notice some new
things in the gulf service. One of the first things that people
will see is the five metre high Cabot wordmarks on the ships,
signifying Marine Atlantic's role as an official sponsor of the
Cabot 500 celebrations. Inside the terminals, employees dressed
in period costumes and wooden cut-outs of John Cabot and his crew
will add atmosphere. Onboard the vessels, murals adorn some walls
and the cafeteria is now home to a model of John Cabot's famous
ship the Matthew. Passengers will also enjoy entertainment with a
Newfoundland flavour at different times over the summer.
"We are doing a lot of things to make this season special
for visitors and residents alike," said McInnis. "This
summer more than ever, Marine Atlantic is ready to bring the
world to Newfoundland."
Contact: Ted Bartlett, Director of Public Relations, (506)
851- 3611.
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