A local tourism director hopes the province keeps the ‘CAT’ ferry around for a long time.
The head of the Yarmouth and Acadian Shores Tourism Association says he’s pleased with a recent economic impact study on the Yarmouth-to-Maine vessel.
The report showed the service is well-received provincewide, and ‘CAT’ passengers stay longer and spend more money.
Neil MacKenzie adds that consistency is needed to keep building the market.
“Even though there have been market disruptions with the pandemic, and the loss of the ferry in 2009. We’ve shown with consistency in the market, we’re able to build and increase visitor spending throughout the province,” said MacKenzie.
The province has a contract with Bay Ferries until March, 2027.
“A lot of seasonal businesses try to build for locals as well, but it’s hard to buy a large asset and have staff if there isn’t consistency in the market. We need a long-term commitment from the province.”
MacKenzie says they’ve been busy promoting the region for the upcoming season, with visits to New York, New England and Quebec.
YASTA ‘disappointed’ with Visitor Information Centre closure
The Yarmouth location of the Visitor Information Centre will not re-open this summer due to budget cuts by the provincial government.
It was set up at the Firefighters Museum of Nova Scotia on Main Street last summer.
MacKenzie says they were quality employees with a great understanding of the region.
“They were able to often extend people’s stay, recommend must-see places that people want to experience.”
While he understands visitor behaviour has changed, many still enjoy face-to-face interactions.
MacKenzie says museum closures in Barrington and Shelburne are also a loss, and will hurt tourism spending in those communities.
