Travel
CAT Ferry Service Reinstated
After A Three Year Hiatus
CAT Ferry, Yarmouth, Nova Scotia (Source: Brian Teepell )
CAT Ferry Departing Yarmouth Ferry Terminal
(Source: Brian Teepell)
(Source: Brian Teepell)
This week, I had a chance to explore the downtown area of Yarmouth and I could see the optimism, enthusiasm and hope in the eyes of the residents in this southwestern community that greatly depends on tourism. The resumption of ferry service will allow many shop owners to reopen and hire employees, many food service providers to welcome hungry tourists, and inn-keepers, bed and breakfasts, and hotels operators to provide world class accommodations.
With the CAT departing in the morning and arriving in the early evening, it makes Yarmouth an attractive and convenient community to commence or conclude the CAT Ferry adventure.
The 2022 CAT Ferry season commenced on May 19th departing Yarmouth, Nova Scotia. From May 19th, until June 20th there will be sailings on Monday, Thursday, Friday and Sunday From June 23rd to September 6th there will be sailings 7 days a week, and from September 7th to October 10th there will be sailings on Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, Friday, Saturday and Sunday. All Yarmouth departures are at 9:30 am. (Atlantic Standard Time)
The Bar Harbor sailing schedule is the same, but the U.S. departure time is 3:00 pm. (Eastern Standard Time)
I am sure that many wonder, what makes the CAT Ferry worthy of consideration with so many other modes of travel? So, let's have a look at the CAT and the advantages that makes the international ferry a good alternative for travel between Nova Scotia and the United States.
The CAT is a high speed ferry that provides 3.5 hour service between Yarmouth and Bar Harbor, which can save many extra hours of driving when traveling between Nova Scotia and Maine. The time saved can mean the traveler has more time to spend at their vacation destination while experiencing the unique perspective that maritime travel can add to any journey. Less driving time can also mean less fuel consumption and with the high gas prices could have the potential for significant savings. Along with saving driving time and money, the CAT can also save the stresses that busy highways and congested airports can bring.
Once onboard the traveler can trade their car keys for a spacious seat where relaxation is readily available. Whether choosing to listen to music or watch a movie, chat with a loved one, make a new friend, or look out the window to take in the sights of rugged coastlines, time will seem to stand still yet pass very quickly as the ship glides across the Atlantic Ocean. It is very common to see marine life in their natural habitat, so bringing a camera to capture that epic portrait is highly recommended. There are many options to satisfy the hungry passenger. Whether looking for a snack or a full meal, there is coffee and other beverages to enjoy with each option. The CAT Ferry is suitable for all ages with a children's play area to keep them entertained and a daily feature in the movie lounge. Some sailings will also have live music and other entertainment. No CAT Ferry adventure would be complete without a visit to the onboard gift shop to pick up a souvenir. Passengers on all sailings have access to an onboard visitor information center to speak with a travel counselor for any travel questions or advice.
There is an old expression that says, "It is not only the destination that matters in the end, it's the journey along the way." The CAT Ferry is an adventure that can add an unique and exciting component to any Atlantic Canada or New England vacation. The memories that are made while sailing on the CAT are sure to last a lifetime.
For further details visit https://www.ferries.ca/thecat/overview/
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