One P.E.I. ferry out of service after crashing into wharf: NFL

One of the ferries that transfers passengers between Prince Edward Island and Nova Scotia is out of service after crashing into a wharf.

One of the ferries that transfers passengers between Prince Edward Island and Nova Scotia is out of service after crashing into a wharf.

A statement from Jeff Joyce, vice president of marine operations and general manager of Northumberland Ferries Limited (NFL), says the MV Confederation experienced what they believe was an issue with the de-clutching of the forward end braking propeller while it was entering Wood Islands, P.E.I., on Sunday.

The mechanical issue resulted in the vessel colliding with the wharf (dolphin structure) on approach for docking at the berth, causing some structural damage to the bow visor of the ship.

There were no reported injuries, according to the statement.

Joyce says teams are working with local ship repair facilities to ramp up external support in hopes of repairing the vessel’s damage quicker.

As far as how long it will take to repair, including getting approval to operate, Joyce says that is still unknown. However, he estimates it will take at least one to two weeks.

“Service at NFL is reduced to MV Saaremaa I’s sailing schedule until the repair is completed,” said Joyce. “As a precaution, we are not accepting bookings for the next 14 days for MV Confederation, up to and including September 29.”