The Newfoundland and Labrador Provincial Government has awarded Damen Shipyards a contract for a second 80-metre Ice-class ferry, just a few weeks after placing an order for its first vessel, which will serve the Fogo Island-Change Islands.
This second order is for an identical vessel but will be deployed between Bell Island and Portugal Cove-St. Philip's.
Scheduled for delivery in February 2016, the 14-knot Ro-Ro ferry will be able to carry up to 200 passengers and 60 vehicles.
The investment in the new ferry is part of the government's vessel renewal program and will expand capacity on the route by replacing the MV 'Beaumont Hamel'.
The MV 'Flanders' will continue to serve Bell Island alongside the new ferry.
