Argentia Service
May 08, 2020
St. John’s, NL – Marine Atlantic announced today the Corporation will suspend the Argentia – North Sydney ferry service for the 2020 summer tourism season.
As everyone continues to work hard to flatten the curve and battle COVID-19, the demand for leisure and tourism travel to and from the Province of Newfoundland and Labrador is not expected to recover in the coming weeks. With travel restrictions in effect throughout Canada, these trends are expected to continue into the summer season.
Frequently Asked Questions
Will the Argentia - North Sydney ferry service resume in 2021?
Will the Argentia - North Sydney ferry service resume in 2021?
Yes, our plan is to resume the Argentia – North Sydney ferry service for the 2021 summer season.
Why cancel the Argentia ferry service when travel could be permitted by July?
Why cancel the Argentia ferry service when travel could be permitted by July?
There are no indications travel restrictions will be relaxed this summer to provide for a tourism season within Atlantic Canada.
Will customers receive a refund?
Will customers receive a refund?
Yes, customers will receive a full refund.
How long will it take for customers to receive a refund?
How long will it take for customers to receive a refund?
There are currently approximately 1500 reservations impacted. We will begin processing refunds immediately. Customers receipt of their refunds could take up 7 days depending on their banks.
If a customer booked one way through Argentia and the other through Port aux Basques, what will happen to the Port aux Basques leg of their trip?
If a customer booked one way through Argentia and the other through Port aux Basques, what will happen to the Port aux Basques leg of their trip?
For customers who booked one way through Argentia and the other through Port aux Basques, only the Argentia leg of their trip will be cancelled. Customers will be responsible for making any changes to the Port aux Basques leg of their itinerary. This will protect customer cabins and booking preferences which are based upon when the booking was made.
Is Marine Atlantic planning to further reduce the number of crossings to and from the province?
Is Marine Atlantic planning to further reduce the number of crossings to and from the province?
Our operational plan provides for two sailings from Port aux Basques and North Sydney each day. We will operate the MV Leif Ericson as a third vessel when traffic warrants.
Our focus is on providing a healthy and safe environment for employees and customers and protecting our essential ferry service which plays a vital role in the regional supply chain.
Is Marine Atlantic planning to increase fares to offset the loss in revenue?
Is Marine Atlantic planning to increase fares to offset the loss in revenue?
No. We announced our new rate structure earlier this year that came into effect April 1 and no additional changes are planned.
What are the options for ferry travel to the province this summer?
What are the options for ferry travel to the province this summer?
Marine Atlantic will still operate the daily service between Port aux Basques and North Sydney.
For more information on our COVID-19 response, Click Here