News release

New Englanders Arrive Via Cat

Tourism, Culture and Heritage (Dec. 2003 - Jan. 2011)

Fireworks and bagpipes will help welcome tourists arriving in Yarmouth today, May 26, on the Cat ferry's first run from Portland, Maine.

"We're pleased to be partners with Bay Ferries in offering this service which makes it quick and easy for New Englanders to visit Nova Scotia," said Kelliann Dean, deputy minister of Tourism, Culture and Heritage. "Nova Scotia is excited to welcome the first Cat ferry travellers this evening and others who will arrive throughout the tourism season."

Bay Ferries Limited has been operating the high-speed ferry from Bar Harbor, Maine, to Yarmouth since 1998. Service on the new route from Portland runs on Friday, Saturday and Sunday until mid-October. Service from Bar Harbor continues during the rest of the week.

The ferry route from Portland could attract many new visitors to the province because the city is just two hours away from the large Boston market. The ship can carry 775 passengers, 250 cars and 14 tour buses or motor homes. Its evening arrival in Yarmouth and morning departure for Portland ensure that most passengers will spend at least two nights in the area.

"The new route taps into more New England visitors, and the schedule will encourage them to shop, take tours, and stay in local accommodations," said Wade Arnold, general manager of the Rodd Colony Inn in Yarmouth. "We're optimistic as we've already seen an increase in our bookings since the Cat promotion in Boston."

The Department of Tourism, Culture and Heritage co-ordinated a major promotion in Boston from May 19 to May 21, featuring the Cat and tourism operators from across the province. The ferry's new route from Portland was highlighted, along with the many experiences Nova Scotia has to offer.

Strengthening transportation links is part of the annual tourism plan, which is developed by the joint industry-government Tourism Partnership Council. The plan is based on extensive research and designed to expand the tourism industry in Nova Scotia. It is available on the website at www.gov.ns.ca/dtc .