March 16, 2022 12:21pm
The MS Chi-Cheemaun suffered a fire in Thunder Bay over the weekend.
The ferry’s operators say they are awaiting a report on damage for the 643-passenger vessel that is currently at the Heddle Shipyards, where it was brought in October of 2021 for a mandatory five-year safety inspection.
Thunder Bay Fire Rescue says it was called to the scene during the early-morning hours on Saturday, March 12th. According to a release, there is “extensive damage” to one of the ship’s boilers, as well as damage to some equipment on board.
The Owen Sound Transportation Company has not provided details on how the fire will impact the ferry this season, which carries passengers and vehicles between Tobermory and Manitoulin Island.
OSTC says the cause of the fire is under investigation, and the ferry will undergo further examination before more information is provided.
According to OntarioFerries.com, the Chi-Cheemaun is scheduled to begin ferry service on May 6th, but OSTC has so far not provided any information to indicate whether that will, or will not, continue as scheduled.
The MS Chi-Cheemaun was laid down in January of 1974, with her maiden voyage taking place later that year on September 10th.
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