The Theodore OHara Sets Sail for Smoother Journeys in Nova Scotia

Funding provided through the Investing in Canada Infrastructure Program.

A cable ferry in Nova Scotia is doing things a bit differently! The Theodore O’Hara isn’t your typical boat; instead of a regular motor engine, it uses cables to cruise across the water. This helps the ferry easily handle tricky currents while also contributing to lower levels of pollution.

The ferry connects Port Bickerton and Isaacs Harbour, providing residents and visitors with a safer and more reliable transportation option. Named after Theodore O'Hara, the first lighthouse keeper of Port Bickerton. This ferry isn’t just about getting from point A to B, it's a floating symbol of the region's maritime heritage.

Out with the Stormont II, in sails the Theodore O’Hara!

Replacing the previous ferry, the Stormont II, which carried up to 12 cars, the Theodore O'Hara can carry up to 15 cars, and has lower greenhouse gas emissions, making it a more efficient and environmentally friendly choice for commuters.

Its swift seven-minute crossing time helps residents get to work, school, or even to explore the beautiful landscapes of the province without missing a beat. This ferry isn't just for everyday commutes; it also helps emergency vehicles respond faster.

With around 16,000 vehicles and 24,000 passengers each year, the Theodore O’Hara is helping residents and visitors get to where they need to go.

So, if you ever find yourself in Nova Scotia and in need of a faster, safer, and more reliable way to get around, set your sights on the Theodore O'Hara. Happy sailing!

For more information, visit:

• News Release: New Country Harbour Ferry Officially Launches:
• Housing and Infrastructure Project Map

Quick facts

• The ferry is named after Theodore O'Hara, the first lighthouse keeper of Port Bickerton.
• The Theodore O’Hara replaced the Stormont II, a 41-year-old, 12-car cable ferry.
• The Theodore O’Hara ferry provides an important transportation link on the Eastern Shore, as a connection point for many workers in the area and shorter routes for emergency vehicles.
• These investments complement the Atlantic Growth Strategy, a federal-provincial action plan aimed at stimulating economic growth in the region through five priority areas:
  • Skilled workforce/Immigration;
  • Innovation;
  • Clean growth and climate change;
  • Trade and investment;
  • Infrastructure.