Marine Heritage: Canada Post Issues New Stamps Showcasing Five Ferries

Canada Post celebrates Canada’s maritime heritage with a new stamp issue showcasing five iconic ferries. These stamps pay tribute to the crucial role that waterway transportation has played in the country’s history and development.

Ferries Stamps (CNW Group/Canada Post)

Indigenous Peoples have long relied on canoes, kayaks, and other vessels to navigate Canada’s coastal regions and waterways for hunting, trading, and transportation. Today, ferries are an integral part of Canada’s transit systems and tourism industry, carrying millions of passengers and vehicles each year.

The stamp collection features five ferries, representing different regions of Canada.

The Spirit of British Columbia connects Vancouver and Victoria across the Salish Sea, accommodating over 2,100 passengers and 350 vehicles. This vessel, part of the BC Ferries fleet, underwent a conversion in 2018 to use liquefied natural gas and reduce CO2 emissions.

The Chi-Cheemaun, meaning “big canoe” in Ojibwe, operates between Tobermory and Manitoulin Island from May to October. Built in 1974, it boasts Woodland-inspired artwork and offers amenities like Muskoka chairs on the upper deck and an onboard art gallery.

Dating back to 1910, Trillium is the oldest ferry in the collection. This side-wheeled paddle steamer which connects Toronto and the Toronto Islands is the largest vessel in the Toronto fleet, accommodating up to 800 passengers on Lake Ontario.

The Alphonse-Desjardins, named after the founder of North America’s first credit union, has been linking Québec and Lévis year-round since 1971. Passengers on this ferry enjoy breathtaking views of the old city and its fortifications.

Finally, the Grand Manan V navigates the Bay of Fundy, known for its highest tides in the world. This ferry connects Blacks Harbour and Grand Manan Island, providing an opportunity for passengers to spot wildlife such as whales and seabirds.

The stamps, designed by Lionel Gadoury and Owen Gabany of Context Creative, showcase picturesque images of the ferries in their natural surroundings.