NL

MV Veteran expected to arrive at St. John's Harbour this weekend

Newfoundland and Labrador newest ferry is making its way to the island, with the MV Veteran expected to sail past Fogo Island-Change Islands Friday morning.
The $50-million MV Veteran is expected to sail past Bell Island on Saturday morning, then make its way to St. John's Harbour. (Damen Shipyards)

Newfoundland and Labrador's newest ferry is making its way to the island.

The MV Veteran is expected to sail past Fogo Island and Change Islands Friday morning.

The ferry will pass by Bell Island Saturday, then dock at St. John's Harbour to clear customs.

The Department of Transportation and Works said the vessel will stay in St. John's until November to allow for crew training and to conclude "operational and technical requirements." Once that's complete, it will then take up duties on the Fogo Island-Change Islands run.

In August, the MV Veteran was heading to the province when it had to return to Damen Shipyards in Romania, where it was built, after experiencing engine trouble.

The vessel began its second voyage to the province a month later after a new engine was installed. 

A welcoming ceremony is planned in St. John's Harbour during the week of Oct. 19.