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.

1997 06 19 3:30 p.m.

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