Yarmouth Ferry Clears Hurdle, Nears May 1 Launch

The Nova Scotia government is helping the operator of the new Yarmouth ferry meet federal requirements in the United States so it can start selling tickets. Nova Star Cruises will receive $2 million, part of the province's $21-million commitment to support a new ferry, to post a bond to meet regulations.Tourism Minister Michel Samson says the money means they'll be able to get the approvals they need in the United States to advertise their fares and sell tickets. Meanwhile, some changes to the ferry schedule were also unveiled - it will arrive in Yarmouth at 8 a.m. and depart at 10 a.m. The company requested the change to better accommodate marine traffic in Portland. It's set to begin making crossings May 1.