New Pelee ferry is afloat, arriving in late spring

The controversial replacement for the Pelee Island Ferry is now afloat.

Pelee Islander II was launched on October 14 inValdivia, Chile where it was built, according tomanufacturer ASENAV.

• New Pelee Island Ferry controversy continues

ASENAVwas awarded the contract to build the vessel back in 2015 by Ontario's Ministry of Transportation.

At the time, shipbuilderAndy Stanton of Hike Metalin Wheatley, Ont.plannedto fight the decision, arguing the ship should bemade locally.

Transportation Minister Steven DelDucasent CBC News a statement in 2015,saying the ministry had to go out of the country, because it could not find a firm in Canada with the capacity to build the ferry.

Pelee islander II is 67.7 metres in length, and has the capacity to hold 34 vehicles and 399 passengers.

The transport ministry said there is still some remaining work to complete, includinginstalling the wheel house, painting, and interior finishing.

The ferry is expected to begin service in the spring of 2018.