The new ferry for Pelee Island is almost at its new home.
The 'Pelee Islander Two' was built in Chile and began travelling to its home base in Lake Erie a month ago.
It'll be docking in Kingsville today where it will stay for a series of Ministry of Transportation tests and crew training.
Pelee Island Mayor Rick Masse tells AM800's 'The Afternoon News' the new vessel will be able to handle windy conditions better.
"I believe it's going to be able to go through heavier weather conditions, so hopefully there will be less likely, less cancelled trips," says Masse.
Passenger seating, Pelee Islander Two, June 11, 2018 (courtesy ontarioferries.com)
The new ferry is also being called a major upgrade over the current one. "Pelee Islander only holds nine cars, just under 200 passengers. Where the Pelee Islander Two will hold 34 vehicles and upward to 400 passengers so the capacity is a lot larger," says Masse.
Once the new ferry is in operation, the 'Jiiman' will be taken out of service for a refit of the bow and stern thrusters.
Pet area on the upper deck of the Pelee Islander Two, June 11, 2018 (courtesy ontarioferries.com)