Earlier this month, Marine Atlantic announced that a problem with the Ala’suinu’s lubrication system would result in a delay to the start of the Argentia service. Work to correct the issue has taken longer than expected. Repairs are now nearing completion and the organization is set to begin port trials and final integration activities.

“These disruptions have a significant impact on our customers’ travel plans and together with the vessel owner, both organizations have been working tirelessly to expeditiously resolve these mechanical issues,” says President and CEO Murray Hupman. “Despite these initial setbacks, we are confident that the vessel will be a great asset to our service.”

The revised first Argentia crossing of the season is scheduled for July 3. This impact will result in two additional return Argentia crossings being re-routed through the Gulf service (North Sydney – Port aux Basques).

Argentia customers

Customers impacted by the delay in the Argentia service will be re-routed through the Gulf service (Port aux Basques – North Sydney). All customers will receive notifications and an updated itinerary with their new reservation details. Argentia customers will receive compensation in accordance with Marine Atlantic policy.

Port aux Basques customers

To increase available capacity on the Port aux Basques service during this period, and to transport impacted Argentia customers, Marine Atlantic is further adjusting its schedule between June 26 – July 1 to add additional crossings. As a result, there will be adjustments to the sailing schedule on the Port aux Basques service. These schedule changes will result in customers receiving notifications of their new departure times. Any customers with crossing times more than 5 hours from their original crossing time will receive compensation in accordance with Marine Atlantic policy.

Any customer who would like to discuss alternate travel arrangements is encouraged to visit www.marineatlantic.ca or contact the Reservations Team at 1-800-341-7981.