The Department of Transportation and Works is announcing improvements to the ferry service for residents of northern Labrador communities to coincide with the second season of the Kamutik W beginning Sunday, June 14.
In February, department officials met with officials from Labrador Marine, Nunatsiavut Marine, the Nunatsiavut Government and local stakeholders to review the inaugural season of the Kamutik W. Improvements beginning with the start of the service this year include:
- An online tracking system for freight shipments to enable customers to follow the progress of their orders;
- The installation of racks at the freight shed in Happy Valley-Goose Bay to allow for better management of pallets and organization of shipments;
- The placement of all freight in containers to avoid damage from weather; and
- A revised weekly schedule with the vessel departing Happy Valley-Goose Bay on Sundays to enable more daytime departures from ports during the week and fewer late night departures.
In addition, the department anticipates work on upgrades at the Makkovik wharf to begin in July.
To help prevent the spread of COVID-19, Labrador Marine has limited the number of passengers permitted to travel on the Kamutik W to 53 and all passengers will be required to practice physical distancing. More information on the service provider’s approach to prevent the spread of the virus is available on Labrador Marine’s website.
In 2019, the Kamutik W transported 700 tonnes more freight than the amount of freight delivered in 2018 by the MV Astron and MV Northern Ranger. As the Kamutik W is starting service weeks earlier than last year, the department and Labrador Marine anticipate even more freight to be delivered in 2020.
The Kamutik W enables residents of northern Labrador communities to drive their vehicles onto the ferry and continue their travels at their destination. Freight rates were also lowered by approximately 40 per cent and passenger rates by approximately 60 per cent prior to the start of the 2019 season.
Quotes
“Last year was the beginning of an enhanced marine service for northern Labrador communities. By working with our partners to make improvements to the service, we look to build on that first season so residents in coastal Labrador communities and businesses in Happy Valley-Goose Bay have an even more successful season in 2020.”
Honourable Steve Crocker
Minister of Transportation and Works
“The Goose Bay port has an important role and responsibility to ensure freight and passengers move efficiently and safely to all the coastal communities that are serviced. I am pleased to see these enhancements and will continue to strive for improved opportunities for all districts in Labrador. We are stronger when we work together and in support of each other.”
Perry Trimper
MHA for Lake Melville
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Learn more
New Ferry Service Begins on Northern Labrador Coast
Labrador Marine Coastal Service
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Media contacts
Brian Scott
Transportation and Works
709-729-3015, 725-9201
brianscott@gov.nl.ca
Bonnie Learning
Constituency Assistant to Honourable Perry Trimper, MHA for Lake Melville
709-896-7975
bonnielearning@gov.nl.ca