Headed north to Maine this summer? You might want to have The CAT on your radar. The high-speed ferry from Maine to Nova Scotia, Canada allows you to enjoy the picturesque route on the Atlantic and operates more akin to a cruise than a ferry.
What is The CAT?
Not to be confused with Boston’s new cat cafe, The CAT is a high-speed car ferry that travels from Maine to Canada.
How long is the ferry from Maine to Nova Scotia?
Aboard the fast ferry, which travels at approximately 30 knots (equivalent to 55-kilometers-per-hour or 35-miles-per-hour) connects Bar Harbor, Maine to Yarmouth, Nova Scotia. If Acadia National Park is already on your bucket list, this ferry could add to the adventure. At this speed, the ferry travels from Bar Harbor, Maine to Yarmouth, Nova Scotia in 3.5 hours.
Amenties onboard The CAT
The expansive vessel offers Sip@Sea service with over 20 loose leaf teas, espresso-based beverages, smoothies, and even homemade gelato on board. For a full meal, visit the ferry’s Scotia Market Café which serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner.
For an elevated dining option, Forchu Lounge serves lobster rolls, an Atlantic cheeseboard, and seafood chowder— in a quarter of the ferry beaming with natural beauty from the vessel’s skylights. Snuggle into the plush leather seating and enjoy the panoramic views.
The ferry even has its own gift shop onboard, named the Scotia Market Gift Shop. You’ll find knick-knacks and souvenirs to treasure the unforgettable experience. Regional talent also boards The CAT for rotating live music. Settle into the movie lounge to catch what’s playing on your ferry ride.
Operating season and ferry fares
The CAT runs spring through fall annually, with summer being the high season. Service began May 17 and concludes October 15, 2024.
If traveling in the summer season, June 20-September 16, adult fares are $115 one-way or $210 round-trip. Those 60+ have reduced fares at $110 and $200 respectively. Youth 7-13 years of age have one-way fares of $70 and round-trip $125. Those 6 years and under ride free.
Vehicle fares
As this is a high-speed car ferry, you can bring your vehicle with you from Maine to Canada and back! Prices range from $20 for bikes all the way up to $573 for the largest vehicles. The average vehicle price is $199-$274 and is exclusive of the passenger fee which is also required. You can view specific vehicle prices and guidelines online.
To save some cash, the spring and fall fares are about 20-30% less than those of summer, so if you’re looking for a $158 round-trip fast ferry to Canada—traveling in the off-season is the move!
Just make sure to remember your passport! Bon voyage!