New ferry to arrive in July

posted on 06/17/10

A new ferry is coming to LaHave this summer.

Transportation department spokesman Steven Smith said currently the replacement ferry for the LaHave II is nearing completion at A.F. Theriault in Meteghan, Digby County.

Although Mr. Smith would not confirm the name of the ferry, the Himmelman family of LaHave said it will be named the "Brady E. Himmelman."

Capt. Himmelman, now 92, began his career on the LaHave to West LaHave crossing in 1948. He remained as the ship's captain until he retired in 1982 — only two years after the provincial government took over the ferry. From his hospital room at South Shore Regional, Capt. Himmelman said he was honoured to have the new ferry named after him. He hopes to be well enough to be on the ship's first crossing.

Mr. Smith added the transportation department is expecting the new ship will arrive in LaHave sometime in July. He said once the ferry has been launched, undergone trials, and has operated for a suitable period in LaHave, the department will proceed with a formal christening ceremony.

That ceremony is expected in September.