Nova Star ferry cuts fares ahead of opening
The Nova Star ferry has cut fares by 20% and waived fares for children under 18 to boost interest ahead of its grand opening on Thursday.
The Portland Press Herald reported that Nova Star Cruises service between Portland and Nova Scotia still has a ways to go before reaching its goal of serving 100,000 passengers. But the company said it is satisfied with ticket sales and the level of interest it has generated.
The changes in Nova Star’s pricing could save a family of four $367, or 45% of the ferry’s total fare. A one-way rate for a child between age 5 and 12 was previously $39, and $64 during the peak summer season. There is a limit of three children per accompanying adult, and the 20% discount does not apply to fees for cabins, vehicles, pets or bicycles
The Press Herald reported that without the 20% discount, a couple traveling during peak season would pay $1,115 for round trip service — a price some people who said is too high. But Dennis Bailey, the ferry company’s spokesman, said the business model is based on providing service more akin to a cruise ship than a ferry.
Portland officials have said the Nova Star ferry could boost the regional economy, estimating that cruise ships in general will create about $100 in direct spending per passenger.
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