The controversial Pelee Islander II is now afloat at a shipyard in Chile.
Ontario Ministry of Transport awarded the contract to ASENAV based on a $2-million saving over building it at Hike Metal in Wheatley.
Ministry spokesperson Liane Fisher says work on fitting out the wheelhouse and other areas of the vessel are now underway at Valdivia, Chile.
The Pelee Islander II can carry up to 34 cars or 4 tractor trailers, along with 16 cars.
The intent is to transport the ship to Lake Eerie in the spring for service to Pelee Island next summer.