Fogo Island ferry out of service, replacement due Thursday

The Beaumont Hamel, which is currently serving Fogo Island and Change Islands, has been taken out of service due to thruster problems, according to the provincial Department of Transportation and Works.

The government says it is sending the Nonia to replace the Beaumont Hamel.

The Nonia is expected to begin runs on Thursday.

On Wednesday, there will be fixed-wing service put in place starting at 7 a.m. to serve Fogo Island.

The fare for travelling on the aircraft will be the same as the ferry, but travellers must pay with cash.

The government says travellers can call 709-256-4414 to make a reservation or get further information about the air service.

There will also be a helicopter service in place between Farewell and Change Islands, starting at 9 a.m. from Farewell.

The fare for this service is also the same as the ferry rate, and must also be paid in cash.

The Beaumont Hamel is actually a replacement vessel itself the ferry that normally handles the Fogo Island run is also out of service.

The Earl W. Winsor has been undergoing repairs for weeks.

The Beaumont Hamel, its replacement until now,can handle only half the number of vehicles. That prompted the government toadd an extra runto the daily schedule last month.