The Yarmouth ferry has taken off for its inaugural sail of 2016, launching the CAT’s first return season on the Yarmouth to Portland, Maine run.
Leaving Yarmouth port under sunny skies, the ferry is making its way to Portland with about 150 passengers on board, and carrying about 60 cars.
Those numbers are expected to double when the ferry returns to Yarmouth from Portland Wednesday evening.
The CAT has been a sore spot since the government of Nova Scotia signed the deal with operator Bay Ferries in March.
Issues such as lack of transparency around passenger numbers, its inability to carry large trucks and the high price tag for taxpayers have some in the province wondering if the government made a desperate, rushed decision when signing the deal.
READ MORE: ‘We got burned, hosed’: Yarmouth resident on new ferry
“They treated us as though we were stupid and desperate and I don’t think we should be either,” Yarmouth resident Jim Jeffery said Tuesday.
Despite the contention, Yarmouth Mayor Pam Mood is touting the ferry as a “game changer” for the economy of Yarmouth and the province, and encouraging residents to get on board.
WATCH: Marieke Walsh gives an update on the start of Yarmouth Ferry’s third sailing season, as well as details on new boat, The CAT.