Northumberland Ferries Achieves 33% Passenger Growth, Introduction of New Vessel, Strong Community Partnerships and Growing Onboard Experiences
Charlottetown, PE — Northumberland Ferries Limited (NFL) is celebrating one of the most significant seasons in its 84-year history.
The 2025 season saw ridership surging, a new vessel introduced to the fleet, community partnerships deepening, and onboard programming reaching record participation. As of November 30, 2025, NFL carried 378,757 passengers, an increase of 95,313 over the previous year.
“This has been a major step forward for Northumberland Ferries” said Mark Wilson, President & CEO of Northumberland Ferries Limited. “From welcoming MV Northumberland and celebrating increased passenger numbers to expanding our community partnerships and enhancing onboard programming, 2025 reflects the dedication of our crew whose professionalism and commitment shape the experience we deliver every day. We remain committed to providing reliable marine transportation, meaningful relationships and memorable experiences for all who travel with us.”
Federal Fare Reductions Drive Increased Mobility and Record Volumes
In August 2025, the Government of Canada introduced fare reductions to improve interprovincial mobility and stimulate economic growth. The response from travelers was immediate with ridership increasing noticeably as more residents and visitors took advantage of the lower fares, and demand remained strong through the remainder of the season.
The initiative contributed meaningfully to the overall growth experienced in 2025 helping make it the busiest season since 2019. The program improved accessibility for travellers while supporting tourism, commerce and regional travel between Wood Islands, PEI and Caribou, NS and throughout the Maritimes.
Introducing MV Northumberland: A New Era for Ferry Service
A major milestone in 2025 was the introduction of MV Northumberland, the latest vessel to join the fleet. Unveiled to the public during Doors Open Down East, the vessel expands capacity and provides enhanced comfort through modern amenities and an improved passenger experience.
The arrival of MV Northumberland underscores NFL’s long-term commitment to safe, reliable and sustainable ferry service across the Northumberland Strait.
Strengthening Community Partnerships Across the Strait
NFL deepened its engagement with communities this year with a notable highlight being its sponsorship and participation in the inaugural Doors Open Down East, Eastern PEI’s signature season-launching tourism event. NFL welcomed more than 1,500 community members aboard its newest vessel, MV Northumberland, for free guided tours, entertainment from local artisans, food producers, musicians and businesses.
NFL’s collaborations continued throughout the year with regional partners through the establishment of a new Advisory Panel. The panel held its first meeting in November 2025 and is scheduled to meet quarterly on an ongoing basis. The group is comprised of key stakeholders spanning regional tourism groups, commercial trucking organizations, local business owners and political representation. Some of the feedback from this panel’s initial meeting is already being actioned and will be instrumental in helping NFL continuously improve its service.
“2025 was such an incredible year,” says Trish Carter, founder of Doors Open Down East and owner of Galla Designs. “Doors Open Down East kicked off a vibrant spring, and with the lower ferry fares, we welcomed so many wonderful day-trippers from the mainland. I’ve enjoyed partnering with Northumberland Ferries and am grateful for all the moments this season brought. I’m also excited to join the Northumberland Ferries advisory panel—looking forward to helping shape a service that means so much to our community.”
This initiative further reinforces NFL’s commitment to supporting community vitality, cultural celebration and local economic development.
Record-Breaking Onboard Experiences: Seaside Program & Special Activations
NFL delivered its most successful season of onboard engagement through cultural programming designed to showcase regional creativity and Maritime hospitality.
Seaside Experiences
The Seaside Experiences program achieved record participation and was waitlisted for the first time. Operating five days per week during peak season, it featured local artisans from PEI and NS giving passengers an authentic connection to the region.
Onboard Activations
These programs enhanced the onboard journey and deepened ties with partners across the Island’s tourism and cultural sectors. As the season comes to a close, NFL extends its sincere thanks to everyone who chooses to make NFL part of their journey. Their support helped make 2025 a strong season and fuels the momentum that will guide NFL’s service improvements and new on-board experiences in 2026 and beyond.
“Being a member of the Seaside Experiences Program and participating in the special onboard activations this past summer was a tremendous privilege. The unique opportunity to showcase our ciders to passengers was truly an unforgettable experience,” says Scott Fish, Director of Sales at Red Island Cider. “The program was perfect for allowing us to provide some sips, sell our ciders and 'Tell our Stories'.”
These programs enhanced the onboard journey and deepened ties with partners across the Island’s tourism and cultural sectors.
As the season comes to a close, NFL extends its sincere thanks to everyone who chooses to make NFL part of their journey. Their support helped make 2025 a strong season and fuels the momentum that will guide NFL’s service improvements and new on-board experiences in 2026 and beyond.
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About Northumberland Ferries Limited Since 1941, Northumberland Ferries Limited (NFL) has provided essential ferry service between Wood Islands, Prince Edward Island and Caribou, Nova Scotia. NFL is committed to safe, reliable transportation and vibrant passenger experiences while supporting the people, businesses and communities it serves.