Icebreaker to help ferry Apollo cross Labrador strait

The ferry Apollo sailed this morning to make the first crossing across the Strait of Belle Isle, ending a disruption that's lasted more than a week.

The Apollo left the dock in Corner Brook before the sun rose, with many passengers headed to nearby southern Labrador. It normally crosses from St. Barbe, in northern Newfoundland, and Blanc Sablon, Que.

The Apollo had been docked in Corner Brook since Sunday, due to heavy ice that prevented normal travel.

An icebreaker will be providing assistance as the Apollo resumes crossings, and deals with a large backlog of passengers and vehicles.

Passengers have been frustrated with the long delay in leaving and the cost of having to stay in Corner Brook rather than heading to their destination.

Labrador Marine, which operates the ferry, said it cannot take any new reservations until the backlog is cleared up.