The MC Chi-Cheemaun will begin operating on June 1, but service will be limited to commercial and through travellers until at least June 30.
An order issued by the Federal Minister of Transport prohibits passenger vessels carrying more than 12 passengers from discretionary operations - including those related to tourism and recreation – in Canadian waters until June 30, 2020.
In a press release issued today, the Owen Sound Transportation Company announced the Chi-Cheemaun will provide service in support of commercial carriers who use the ferry to transit between regions of northern and southwestern Ontario as well as customers for whom the ferry is the most practical means of accessing their homes.
The ferry service also provides an important second point of access to and departure from Manitoulin Island currently served only by the historic single lane wooden swing bridge at Little Current. Ferry service will not be available for passengers engaging in tourism or recreational activities for the duration of the federal order, according to the press release.
Under the federal order, ferries providing the most practical means for passengers to access their home or work, or give passengers access to essential goods and services, or provide other essential services are permitted to operate but must implement strict measures to limit the spread of COVID-19.
The measures being implemented on the Chi-Cheemaun include:
- All passengers required to bring and wear a face covering for the duration of the crossing and must maintain a physical distance of two metres between themselves and other passengers and crew
- Only commercial customers (those providing an essential service) and through travellers (those travelling for an essential purpose) will be accepted on the vessel
- Vehicle capacity may be reduced
- Passenger capacity will not exceed 125 passengers per crossing
- All passengers (walk-on and in-vehicle) must make a reservation
- No passenger will be allowed to remain on the vehicle deck
- Passengers will be screened with questions regarding their health
- There will be no food, beverage or retail service available for passengers
- No food or beverages may be brought on board or consumed by passengers (medical exceptions made with prior notification)
- Passenger spaces will be cleaned on a more frequent schedule
All other reservations will be cancelled; OSTC will contact all reservation holders to screen for purpose of travel to cancel or re-book as required.
Online reservations will not be available for the duration of the Interim Order. Customers must make reservations via telephone to 800-265-3163 and will be screened for purpose of travel.
