Our History

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Started in 1997, Bay Ferries Ltd acquired the service between Yarmouth Nova Scotia and Bar Harbor Maine from Marine Atlantic, sailing the MV Bluenose. In 1998, Bay acquired The CAT, a new 91 metre high speed ferry constructed by Incat of Tasmania. This was North America's first high speed ferry of this type. In 2002 the company introduced a new high speed ferry by acquiring a 98 metre Evolution 10B design, the largest and most modern vessel ever built by Incat. This new Cat renewed the Bay Ferries commitment to stay on the leading edge of technological developments and innovation in marine transportation.

By introducing high speed service between Maine and Nova Scotia it has taken a traditional crossing of 6 hours down to less than 3 hours. As a result, the ship can now make up to two crossing daily in peak season, providing both speed and convenience in schedules to travelers.

In addition to The CAT, Bay Ferries operates the Princes of Acadia between Digby Nova Scotia and Saint John New Brunswick. It's sister company Northumberland Ferries, operating ferry service between Wood Islands, Prince Edward Island and Caribou, Nova Scotia started in 1941. NFL has operated under contract to Transport Canada for over 60 years providing continous service 8 months of the year. Bay and Northumberland Ferries are privately held companies headquartered in Charlottetown, Prince Edward Island.