Vessel turns 50 in 2024
OWEN SOUND—A province-wide ferry review is expected to provide answers as to the future of the M.S. Chi-Cheemaun ferry and others in Ontario, says an official with the Owen Sound Transportation Company (OSTC).
“The bottom line is the ship will have been in service for 50 years in 2024,” said Carl Kuhnke, president of OSTC when contacted by The Expositor. “So, it behooves the government to be reviewing all options for the ship.” He said among the options being considered could include the design and construction of a new ship to sail between Tobermory and South Baymouth which would take approximately 7-10 years, or continue to maintain the ship for the foreseeable future.
Mr. Kuhnke stressed, “There has been absolutely no decision made to build a new ship, buy another ship or retire the Chi-Cheemaun, which is good news. The Chi-Cheemaun is a freshwater ship that is still in perfect condition. But she is 50 years old.”
“Like the Norisle, at some point it will cost more money to maintain the ship than to acquire or build a new one,” continued Mr. Kuhnke.
Ontario undertook a review this year to look at all options for all Crown-operated ferries in the province, said Mr. Kuhnke. “But I don’t think they (province) have $150 million in the bank to provide for a new ship. And in an era of environmental sensibility, it would be logical to think that a new ferry down the road will have to be operated using more environmentally efficient options than the current ship.”
“But a final decision is nowhere close to being made at this time because it would cost between $100-$150 million to build a new ship,” said Mr. Kuhnke. He noted that the provincial review will take place for much of the current year, “and we were told (the results) will be released by the consulting firm in January or shortly after that.” The recommendations will then be considered by the provincial government.
