As per tender/request for proposal (RFP), the deadline for expressions of interest to sell a ferry for the Saint John-Digby run had expired yesterday and no word on what ships could potentially replace the MV Princess of Acadia as pictured in this photo from last May. If no one expressed interest right away, the process could be delayed and a projected March 28, 2015 replacement date might not be met in time. However, if vessels were put forward, a decision could be made by April with the ship arriving at a Canadian shipyard for conversion/refit this summer. No word if there is a plan B if no suitable candidate vessel is found. I'm still thinking a European replacement is most likely such as the Groupe CTMA ferry MV Madeleine, which replaced the MV Lucy Maud Montgomery (also was a European vessel) on the PEI-Ile de Madeleine route in 1997.
Minimum requirements from TC
Construction date: 1995 or newer
Length:85 meters or longer
Breadth (width): 23 meters or less
Draught: 5 meters or less
Propulsion: twin screw (two propellers)
Speed: 15 knots or more
Passenger capacity: 399 or more
Total lane meters: 300 or greater
Commercial lane meters: 200 or greater
Engines should be able to operate on marine diesel
Must operate in wave heights of up to 3-6 meters
If the ship has more than one (1) vehicle deck, must have an internal ramp
Bow/stern doors, both with ramps
Must be delivered in Saint John, N.B. after conversion
Credits/references
https://buyandsell.gc.ca/ (Replacement MV Princess of Acadia)
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