Fraser Shipyards Delivers Innovative Ice-Strengthened Roll On Roll Off Ferry “Niigaan Enaazhek” to the Beausoleil First Nation.
Superior, Wisconsin- Christian Island residents and visitors now have access to reliable, year-round ferry service with the delivery of the MV Niigaan Enaazhek, a state-of-the-art double-ended ferry that will operate 365 days per year between Christian Island and the mainland in Cedar Point, Ontario.
The vessel was constructed at the historic Fraser Shipyards in Superior, Wisconsin, where skilled ship builders navigated the sophisticated construction standards required for this specialized vessel.
“We are incredibly proud of our team’s dedication and expertise in delivering this complex project” said Patrick Kelly, Fraser Shipyards, CEO. “Building an ice-strengthened ferry requires precision craftsmanship that can withstand Georgian Bay’s demanding maritime environment. With the successful delivery of this ferry, Fraser Shipyards proudly marks this achievement as the builder of the only double ended ferry equipped with two Voith Schneider Propellers operating on the Great Lakes.”
Fraser Shipyards, with continuous operations since 1888, brought more than 135 years of shipbuilding expertise to the project. The company’s long history of maritime excellence made them the ideal choice for this challenging build.
The newly commissioned vessel conducts 12 daily round trips, offering connectivity for the Beausoleil First Nation community. Built specifically for the Georgian Bay conditions, the Niigaan Enaazhek (‘Moving Forward’ in English) can accommodate 150 passengers and 36 cars or trucks on a convenient roll-on, roll-off basis, eliminating the need for complex loading procedures.
The vessel features the Voith Schneider Propeller (VSP), an advanced propulsion system that provides accurate maneuverability and control in demanding maritime environments. Unlike conventional propellers, the VSP allows for rapid thrust adjustments in any direction, making it ideally suited for ferry operations that require frequent docking and operation in confined waters. In addition, the VSP’s robust design ensures consistent performance in ice conditions, supporting the vessel’s Ice Class 1A rating.
“The Voith Schneider Propeller gives operators complete control of the vessel, even in the harshest winter conditions,” said David Hansen, Marine Project Manager at Voith Turbo, North America. “With its ability to deliver power and responsiveness while meeting Ice Class 1A requirements, the VSP is a key factor in ensuring safe, reliable, and year-round ferry service between Christian Island and Cedar Point, Ontario.”
The successful completion of the Niigaan Enaazhek was made possible through collaboration between multiple partners. Special recognition goes to the Beausoleil First Nation Council members for their vision in selecting Fraser Shipyards for this critical infrastructure project, and gratitude extends to all partners whose expertise and dedication contributed to the project’s success.
Media Contact: Kathleen Menten, Fraser Shipyards LLC, 917 445 1310 KMenten@FraserShipyards.com
Photo Courtesy of David Schauer