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THUNDER BAY — The operators of the MS Chi-Cheemaun are assessing the damage in the wake of a fire that broke out in the car ferry while she was in a Thunder Bay shipyard early Saturday.
So far, the Owen Sound Transportation Company – an agency of the Ontario government – hasn't indicated whether or how the fire will impact the operation of the popular ferry this season.
The Chi-Cheemaun carries passengers and vehicles between Tobermory, Ontario and Manitoulin Island.
According to the current posted schedule, she is supposed to begin this year's sailing season on May 6.
The 643-passenger vessel was brought to Heddle Shipyards last October for her mandatory five-year safety inspection.
Thunder Bay Fire Rescue was called to the scene at 2:20 a.m., and found a fire in the ship's boiler room.
No one was injured.
The fire department said the initial attack was made by staff on board.
According to TBFR, there was extensive damage to one of the ship's boilers and to electrical equipment.
On Monday, the Owen Sound Transportation Company – an agency of the provincial government – said the cause of the fire is still under investigation.
It confirmed that one of two boilers is damaged, but said no other machinery was affected.
In a brief statement, the company said the vessel will undergo further examination and equipment-testing, after which OSTC will provide more information.
