The Ferry From Maine To Nova Scotia (And Back)
Fast Cat Service to Yarmouth From Portland Until 2018 and Since From Bar Harbor.
Originally Posted at “Old Ones Dream” July 22, 2014.
While we were in Nova Scotia in the summer of 2012, we took a day trip from Annapolis Royal down to Yarmouth. We noted that the town of Yarmouth seemed to be on the wane as a result of the ferry from Maine having ceased operations in 2009.
The Ferry Is Back
In May, a new luxury ferry began operating daily between *Portland, Maine and Yarmouth. I feel sure that a lot of work was done by Nova Scotia promoters to get this done, and I understand that subsidies are involved on both sides of the water. I have read that, at least through June, the ferry is running at less than capacity and introductory fares are very reasonable.
Yarmouth 2012
When we visited on June 28, 2012; we dined on the docks and walked about the village visiting art galleries, museums, and shops and we took a walking tour of the historic residential district just a block from the waterfront.
- Photos by Old Ones Dream
A New Down East Travel Opportunity
There are over 800 land miles between *Portland, Maine and the southeast shore of Nova Scotia. By the ferry it is 11 hours and includes an ocean cruise with all the amenities.
*The Cat maintained the schedule from Portland to Yarmouth until its lease with the City of Portland expired in 2018. At this writing in January 2026, the ferry from Maine to Nova Scotia is from Bar Harbor, Maine to Yarmouth, Nova Scotia — The Cat high speed ferry operated from May to October by Northumberland Ferries.