SAAREMAA is being “Canadised” prior to her service on the Matane – Baie-Comeau – Godbout route. Last week, she was presented to the local media.
The route was temporarily operated by CTMA VOYAGEUR, which in fact only has a 12-driver capacity. The problems on the route started when modern LNG-powered ro-pax F.-A.-GAUTHIER experienced problems, which still haven’t been solved. The ferry is still in dry dock.
Since 1 June, the route is operated by F.-A.- SAVARD, a 70-car, 376-pax ferry, until SAAREMAA is ready. The ship is expected to enter service at the beginning of July, as SAAREMAA I. Later on, a naming competition will be organised.
Short of its flagship F.-A.-GAUTHIER, STQ recently acquired veteran APOLLO as a stop gap solution. However, she only lasted for 21 days, because of technical and structural issues.