Bella-Desgagnes Ship Details and Seafarer Feedback

A crane malfunction has once again impacted the operations of the 'Bella Desgagnés', as confirmed by Relais Nordik following initial inspections. This marks the second incident involving a crane breakdown since the commencement of the 2026-2027 operational season. Unlike the previous malfunction that affected the vessel during its inaugural voyage, this latest issue is believed to involve a different component. Preliminary analyses indicate that a unique set of circumstances led to the breakdown at the Port-Menier wharf, necessitating further technical scrutiny. In response, the vessel has returned to Sept-Îles, where specialized teams and necessary equipment have been deployed to address the situation. As of April 16, the investigation began, allowing for any required interventions. By April 17, the 'Bella Desgagnés' was able to depart from the port once more, setting its course toward Blanc-Sablon, with an estimated arrival date of April 18.

On the evening of April 8, 2026, the ferry 'Bella Desgagnés' experienced a mechanical failure while docked at the La Romaine wharf, leading to significant disruptions in its inaugural voyage for the season. Fortunately, after undergoing essential repairs to the vessel's crane in Blanc-Sablon, ferry services along the Lower North Shore successfully resumed normal operations on the morning of April 10. This timely intervention has ensured the recommencement of all maritime activities along its standard route, providing reassurance to the local community and travelers alike.

On October 1, 2020, a crew member aboard the ferry 'Bella-Desgagnés' tested positive for COVID-19 shortly after disembarking. The incident was reported to Relais Nordik, the company overseeing maritime transport to Anticosti and the Lower North Shore, early in the morning. In response, Public Health initiated an epidemiological investigation to trace contacts related to the affected engine room worker, who reportedly had no direct interactions with passengers. Meanwhile, health officials are evaluating further safety measures to ensure the continued transport of food and essential supplies to isolated communities, as the ferry is temporarily out of service.

On September 28, the 'Bella Desgagnés' officially returned to its operational schedule after being out of service for six days. This vital ferry, which plays a crucial role in supplying goods and equipment to the Middle and Lower North Shore of Quebec, resumed its route in the morning, making its expected arrival at Port Menier by 11 a.m. before proceeding to Rimouski. The vessel had been docked in Sept-Îles since September 22 due to a mechanical issue involving one of its thrusters. It is now set to follow its standard timetable beginning September 30, with plans for an evening departure towards the North Shore. However, communities located in the Lower North Shore will experience a delay in receiving their supplies until mid-week, provided everything goes according to plan. The 'Bella Desgagnés' is forecasted to arrive in Kegaska on October 2, where it will then continue to deliver cargo to further eastern communities, including Blanc-Sablon. This journey aims to transport both last week’s and this week’s shipments to help reduce the spoilage of perishable items resulting from the previous service disruption. The mechanical malfunction on the 'Bella Desgagnés' had precipitated significant food supply challenges for local residents on the Lower North Shore, leaving grocery shelves devoid of fresh fruits and vegetables. In light of the pressing need for supplies, the Société des traversiers du Québec (STQ) was urged to arrange for air delivery to these communities—similar to the logistics employed during winter months. However, this method poses its own difficulties, especially considering the extensive number of flights required to transport significant amounts of cargo, making it less than ideal for handling perishables.

The ferry Bella Desgagnés has been docked at Sept-Îles since September 22, 2019, grappling with issues related to one of its bow thrusters. As the operator, Relais Nordik, aimed to restore service to the Middle and Lower North Shore by September 25, the situation became complex. The root of the problem lay in a short circuit affecting the engine driving the ship's port propeller. Mechanics faced the challenging task of meticulously inspecting all cables and electrical connections to pinpoint the source of the malfunction. To assist with the diagnosis and repair, experts from Sept-Îles, known for their specialization in such equipment, were called in. In a bid to expedite the resolution, a replacement engine was also dispatched from Relais Nordik's warehouses to Sept-Îles. However, engineers indicated that resolving the underlying issue would be preferable to a complete engine replacement, which could extend the downtime significantly.