Port aux Basques Navigation Improvement Project
The proponent is proposing to undertake navigation improvements in Port aux Basques Harbour to support Marine Atlantic ferry operations. The proposed improvements are intended to enhance access to berths within the harbour by addressing existing navigational constraints that affect docking and undocking operations, particularly during adverse weather conditions.
The primary component of the project involves the removal of Vardy's Rock (also known as Vardy's Island) to improve navigability. Additional work includes widening and deepening the approach channel and turning basin through the removal of rock south and southwest of Vardy's Rock, as well as a portion of Baldwin Rock. Dredged rock would be reused to repair and upgrade the existing Pikes Island Breakwater and to create an infill area at Pikes Island. Construction is anticipated to take approximately 12 months and is not expected to disrupt existing ferry operations.
Latest update
Sept 29, 2026 – The authorities intend to make a determination regarding whether the carrying out of the project is likely to cause significant adverse environmental effects. To help inform this determination, the authorities are inviting public comments until October 29, 2026 respecting that determination.
Participate
Key documents
| Document number | Document title | File | Date |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Notice of Intent to Make a Determination - Start of Public Comment Period | - | September 29, 2026 |
Contacts
Jason GodfreyMarine Atlantic Inc
Jason Godfrey, Environmental Specialist
10 Fort William Place, Suite 302,
St John's NL A1C 5S7
Email: JGODFREY@MA.CA
Disclaimer
This map is for illustrative purposes. The markers represent the approximate locations based on available data. More than one marker may be identified for a given assessment.
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Location
- Port aux Basques (Newfoundland and Labrador)
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Nature of activity
- Ports and Harbours
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Assessment status
In progress -
Start date
2026-09-29 -
Proponent
Marine Atlantic -
Authorities
- Environment and Climate Change Canada
- Fisheries and Oceans Canada
- Marine Atlantic Inc.
- Transport Canada
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Assessment type
Project on federal lands -
Reference number
90808
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