MAINE PUBLIC • March 1, 2026
A new study commissioned by Nova Scotia officials finds that the annual subsidies paid by the province to run a high-speed ferry to Bar Harbor are worth the investment. According to the report, the Yarmouth-Bar Harbor CAT ferry has a positive economic impact in southwest Nova Scotia and across the province. American and non-Nova Scotian ferry passengers spent "considerably more per capita" while visiting the region compared to other visitors who arrived by air or car, the report said. The current contract with operator Bay Ferries Ltd. runs through the upcoming 2026 sailing season, but after that, the future of the service is uncertain.