It has been a long time coming but the Pelee Islander II is set to sail on Friday.
The Ministry of Transportation (MTO) said the new and improved vessel is fully operational and approved for sailing on Lake Erie.
The Pelee Islander II will have its grand debut on Friday at 2 p.m. at the Leamington Dock.
Many are welcoming the return of regular ferry service after maintenance and safety issues delayed the new vessel in the fall.
“The ferries travelling to Pelee Island and the mainland are, in fact, a much-needed lifeline for the residents of the island, as well as for economic growth through agriculture and tourism," said Rick Nicholls, MPP for Chatham-Kent and Leamington. "This new modern day ferry will make travelling more enjoyable and reliable for everyone.”
The Pelee Islander II has a carrying capacity of 399 passengers and 34 cars, or 4 tractor-trailers and 16 cars.
Local tourism officials believe the new vessel will grow business in the area.
“We are thrilled to have this new, more reliable ferry to bring tourists to Pelee Island, one of Ontario’s tourism gems," said Jim Hudson, executive director of the Southwest Ontario Tourism Corporation. "We expect this will increase the number of overnight visitors, and tourism spending, on the island as well as in the port communities of Leamington and Kingsville.”
The Pelee Islander II went through sea trials in November after arriving June 15.