What Crew Members Say About Kamutik-W

In a concerning development, 117 passengers aboard the 'Kamutik W' were potentially exposed to COVID-19 following a failure to declare recent international travel. On the morning of March 23, 2020, during a voyage from Corner Brook, Newfoundland and Labrador, to Blanc Sablon, Quebec, the crew identified that some individuals had not disclosed their travel history as mandated under COVID-19 travel restrictions. These passengers were subsequently isolated in a cabin for the remainder of the journey. As the situation unfolded, rumors began circulating among the passengers regarding international travel incidents that went unreported during boarding procedures. The following day, March 24, an elderly woman on board required urgent medical assistance and was medevaced to Gander due to a facial infection, while the 'Kamutik W' remained trapped in heavy ice conditions by midday. The provincial authorities were promptly informed, and measures were taken to ensure that the potentially exposed passengers adhered to social distancing and hygiene protocols. Upon arrival in Blanc Sablon, the 'Kamutik W' is set for a thorough deep cleaning. Furthermore, in an effort to enhance safety protocols, the vessel's crew will intensify passenger interviews pre-boarding. In light of these events, the passenger capacity on the ferry will be reduced from the current limit of 120 to a safer maximum of 53 travelers during the ongoing pandemic.

In March 2019, the Labrador coast will welcome two advanced ferries as part of a significant $362-million multiyear agreement with the Woodward Group, as announced by the provincial government. The newly appointed vessels, the 'Grete' and 'Hiiumaa', are ice-class 1A ships specifically designed for northern conditions, significantly enhancing transportation capacity along the region. These modern ferries will replace the aging 'Astron', which has been in operation for 47 years, and the 48-year-old 'Apollo'. The 'Grete' is slated to service the North Coast, while the 'Hiiumaa' will handle operations across the Strait of Belle Isle. Both ferries will undergo renaming before commencing service and are designed with accessibility in mind, featuring full accommodations for persons with disabilities, alongside heated kennel areas for pets. On its route through the Strait of Belle Isle, the 'Hiiumaa' will accommodate 300 passengers and offer two vehicle decks capable of holding 120 vehicles and eight tractor trailers. This is a notable increase from the current capacity of 240 passengers, 80 vehicles, and six tractor trailers provided by the 'Apollo'. Similarly, the 'Grete' will enhance North Coast services by facilitating 140 passengers, with overnight lodging for 80, including two wheelchair-accessible cabins, a minimum vehicle capacity of 20, and a freight capacity for 125 cargo units. This represents a substantial upgrade from the 'Northern Ranger' and 'Astron's' current provisions of 131 passengers, no vehicle capacity, and 110 cargo units. Moreover, the turnaround time for ferry trips on the North Coast will improve dramatically, reducing from 14 days to just seven with the deployment of the new vessels. This upgrade is poised to make a significant impact on transportation efficiency in the region.

On the morning of October 7, 2017, the ferry 'Hiiumaa' made her way to the East Shore Port in Kiel, marking the beginning of a winter layup period. Recently re-flagged from Estonia to Germany, this vessel is set to undergo essential maintenance in preparation for her upcoming services in the Baltic Sea, scheduled for spring 2018. The ship will be docked at the renowned Lindenau-Yard in Kiel, where meticulous attention will be given to ensure she is in top condition for her return to sea. For further details, check out the German report with photos: http://www.kn-online.de/News/Nachrichten-aus-Kiel/Ostuferhafen-Hiiumaa-bleibt-ueber-den-Winter-in-Kiel.