Ferry Service Maine-Nova Scotia to Return with Terminal Upgrades

   December 29, 2017 ,   Cruise Industry

The ferry service connecting Maine with Nova Scotia may return in case Portland ME finds US$2 million to upgrade its ferry terminal.

Ferry service from Ocean Gateway terminal looked like ending last month after US Customs & Border Protection said it needed around US$7 million in upgrades to meet federal standards.

Portland Maine cruise port

Customs & Border Protection now say agents could start doing customs screenings in spring 2018 if less costly changes were made. Spokesman Sean Smith said the changes were critical for passenger and officer safety, along with national security.

Portland officials said they were still unsure how to pay for upgrades. According to the city economic development director, they were exploring "non-municipal options."