61 traditional and contemporary art forms, such as quillwork, pottery, printmaking and painting. Indigenous art has played an important role in storytelling and preserving cultural identity and heritage for generations of Indigenous peoples. We hope our passengers and employees can learn more about local Indigenous cultures and art forms.” The ferry line will also continue the Indigenous theme through its onboard dining options, from full-course dining in the Sage and Aqua restaurants to snacks served in Café Sweetgrass. “Sage will offer an exclusive menu complete with local Indigenous offerings that have been developed in collaboration with a local Indigenous chef,” says Mercer. “Café Sweetgrass and our retail store will also feature Indigenous inspired products.” Sage is set to be an open-plan restaurant with several different eateries and banquette seating and will be a light and open space with windows across the walls. Aqua has also been designed to let in plenty of natural light, as well as featuring high ceilings. This restaurant will offer a combination of bench, booth and banquette seating areas with accessible seating options available, in accordance with the latest Canadian accessibility standards. Meanwhile, Café Sweetgrass is designed as a more casual dining and shopping venue for passengers. Additionally, the ship will feature a variety of amenities including an observation recliner lounge with circular windows and a telescope for passengers to make the most of the views, as well as a shop, a children’s play area and a kennel for pets. There will also be 146 standard passenger cabins and 40 passenger pods onboard, which have been designed as smaller and less expensive private areas. “Our passenger pods are secure and personalised spaces featuring a set of bunk beds, a small storage space and outlet, and access to public washrooms,” says Mercer. Ala’suinu will begin sailing from June 2024, operating between North Sydney, Argentia and Port aux Basques. Image: Loretta Gould Work by Mi’kmaq artists will be displayed throughout the new ferry Image: Marcus Gosse Image: Loretta Gould
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