New vessel, administration building and pay equity are a few of the year's highlights at Marine Atlantic

President and CEO Murray Hupman says revenue is down due to lower passenger traffic as a result of “growing pains” with the introduction of their new ship, “the Ala’suinu.”

Revenues at Marine Atlantic were $12.1 million lower compared to last year but $5.3 million higher than budget. The Corporation released the 2024-2025 annual report at a news conference yesterday in St. John’s. President and CEO Murray Hupman says revenue is down due to lower passenger traffic as a result of “growing pains” with the introduction of their new ship, “the Ala’suinu.” The Argentia service was delayed and as a result passengers were re-routed to the Gulf service. This service disruption resulted in an overall drop in passenger traffic related revenues. 

Despite  the delay with the Ala’suinu, commercial traffic at Marine Atlantic was higher than budget and the prior year. Hupman says other key projects furthered the organization’s commitment to a positive workplace for all employees, including opening a new administration building in Port aux Basques and the implementation of their first Pay Equity Plan. 

Hupman says their fleet replacement strategy identifies vessel requirements for the future and the focus now has shifted to the replacement of the Leif Ericson, their oldest vessel. He says work is ongoing with the Government of Canada to ensure an effective and efficient fleet for customers.  

Marine Atlantic plans to release a new mobile app in the coming year, making it easier for customers to make reservations.