HALIFAX -- A highly subsidized ferry service between Nova Scotia and Maine is now saying it has stopped selling tickets until it has a definite start time for sailing.
Bay Ferries Ltd. sent out a release today saying the Yarmouth to Bar Harbor service's "earliest date" for any service to begin would be "in the late summer range."
However, it's also offering all customers refunds on tickets and says "no new reservations will be accepted" until a more definite startup date is defined.
Late last month, the province's Business Minister Geoff MacLellan said the delay was due to specific renovations required to the terminal building in Bar Harbor by the U.S. Customs and Border Protection service.
The company says it deeply regrets inconvenience caused to customers and the impact on the tourism industry of southern Nova Scotia.
NDP Transport critic Susan Leblanc said the government of Liberal Premier Stephen McNeil must make clear whether there will be any ferry running this season.
The province has committed an estimated $8.5-million to help with the renovation work and the ferry's operating subsidy for this year is $13.8-million.
Bay Ferries moved its Maine port from Portland to Bar Harbor earlier this year, saying it would save in fuel costs because it's closer to Yarmouth.
