Turmoil with the United States is driving down travel numbers for the CAT Ferry in Yarmouth.
The ferry from Yarmouth to Bar Harbour, Maine, will open on Thursday.
But The Bay Ferries says less Canadians are booking trips to the states. Numbers are about the same for Americans coming to Canada, according to a news release from the company.
More than 12,898 people have made reservations so far this season, but numbers were higher at the same time last year. In early May, 2024, they had 16,545 reservations, according to the release.
Many Canadians are protesting U.S. President Trump’s tariffs on Canadian exports, as well as his threats to make Canada the 51st state, by buying local goods and not travelling to the states.
Darlene Grant Fiander, president of the Tourism Industry Association of Nova Scotia, says they are glad the ferry is operating.
“During these uncertain times, we need every possible option available to bring visitors to our province. Tourism
operators depend on predictability and stability as they work hard to attract visitors to Nova Scotia,” she says.
The ferry leaves Yarmouth at 9:30 a.m. Atlantic time on Thursday, and departs from Bar Harbour, Maine, at 3 p.m. Eastern time.
The schedule for the ferry’s season is below.
The schedule for the 2025 season of the CAT ferry in Yarmouth. (Bay Ferries)
The CEO of Bay Ferries, Mark Wilson, says they’re committed to delivering a safe, efficient and reliable ferry service for the 2025 season.
