News release: Request for qualifications to be issued for new ferries (06/08/10)

Ferries operating within New Brunswick

The Department of Transportation is issuing a request for qualifications (RFQ) to design and build new ferries for Grand Manan and White Head Islands, operate the service and maintain the vessels and associated wharves for 15 to 20 years.

The RFQ was released August 15, 2006. An executive summary is available for the public’s information.

The new Grand Manan ferry will be 95 metres long and hold up to 101 cars. It will replace the MV Grand Manan, which is reaching the end of its service life. The new ferry for White Head Island will hold 12 cars, a four-car increase over the MV Lady White Head ferry.

Respondents will be required to submit proposals to have the Province buy the new Grand Manan ferry upon delivery or lease the ferry to the Province with an option to buy after 15 to 20 years. The replacement White Head vessel will be owned by the Province and operated by the successful proponent on the Province’s behalf.

The successful proponent will take responsibility for the Grand Manan and White Head ferry services in Spring 2009. Completion of the new Grand Manan ferry is planned for late 2009. The new White Head Island ferry is scheduled for delivery in 2011.

An executive summary of the Request for Proposals (RFP) will also be published when released. The names of the preferred proponents proceeding to the RFP phase will be announced, as will the name of the successful proponent. Contract details will be released upon signing.

Executive Summary of the Request for Qualifications