Tour the CAT High-Speed Car Ferry

What could be a better travel plan than sailing the seas on a catamaran between two nations? The CAT high-speed car ferry offers just that and in this blog, we will walk you through what to expect on your voyage between Bar Harbor, Maine and Yarmouth, Nova Scotia. Take an inside look at lounges, dining options, viewing decks and more.

After checking in, you’ll experience the boarding process where you’ll be directed in line by a Bay Ferries crew member to drive onto the ship. If you are walking on board, you get to take a trip in a tram up a ramp and onto the vessel, which is a treat in itself. If you are lucky, the driver might sing a Maritime tune for you!

Imagine sipping specialty coffee in a bright café space looking out over the water paired with a sweet treat to kick off your summer vacation. Located at the stern of the ship, Sip@Sea will likely be your first stop once you step on board. At Sip@Sea, you can enjoy many specialty teas, drip coffee and espresso drinks.

If you’re looking for a hearty breakfast, healthy lunch or dinner, Scotia Market Café is the place. The café serves wraps, paninis, salads and sides, as well as a variety of fresh-baked goods.

Looking for the perfect souvenir to celebrate your journey? Visit the Scotia Market Gift Shop. Located across from Scotia Market Café, this glass-walled shop has a beautiful display of products ranging from work by Nova Scotian artists to The CAT merchandise and mementos. You will have no problem finding the perfect magnet for the collector in your life or hand-made skin care products to bring back to your mom.

As you walk through The CAT‘s passenger deck, you will find plenty of comfortable seating, perfect for lounging, taking a nap or watching a movie. Cozy up with the family and check out the daily movie selection, which is always a great way to keep the little ones entertained!

Questions about your journey? We highly recommend you stop by Visitor Information Services. Whether you’re travelling to Bar Harbor for a few days, making your way to Portland, Maine, road-tripping through Nova Scotia or exploring all the Maritimes has to offer, the friendly staff at Visitor Information Services are full of knowledge and useful advice. Grab some literature and leave with a new fact or two. This service is located on the port side of the ship but is easy to spot, as the staff will greet you with bright red vests and welcoming smiles.

Whales, sea birds and beautiful waves are only a few of the sights seen from the viewing decks on this vessel. Find the exits to the viewing decks so you can wave goodbye or hello as The CAT arrives and departs. We highly recommend you keep your ear out for our PA system, which will announce when the pilot ship arrives. Watching someone jump from the pilot ship onto The CAT to guide it into Bar Harbor is quite a sight and the port deck is the perfect place to witness this talent!

The planners in your travel crew will be thrilled to learn about our Business Centre. Here you will find individual desks and charging ports, perfect for some focus time. Check your itinerary with free Wi-Fi or complete some last-minute emails before disembarking at one of our ports.

Arguably the most popular location on The CAT, Forchu Lounge is where the fun happens. Located at the bow of the ship, the views here are amazing, the beer is local and the seafood is fresh. This is also where live entertainment happens. Throughout your journey, you may hear live shanties from musicians, or play a game of cards. Everything on the menu is delicious, but we highly recommend the bacon-wrapped scallops.

The only thing better than planning a voyage is experiencing The CAT high-speed car ferry in person. Nothing will prepare you for its unparalleled beauty and oceanic views. Book your journey today. We look forward to welcoming you and can’t wait for you to see this ship for yourself.