Riverhurst Ferry
The ferry is operated by the Saskatchewan Ministry of Highways and Infrastructure, and travels a distance of some 1.5 kilometres (0.93 mi). The ferry is free of tolls and operates 24 hours a day. During daylight hours, there is an hourly crossing departing from the east bank on the hour and the west bank on the half-hour. At night, the ferry operates on demand.
The ferry operates only during the ice-free season; during the winter months, the provincial government lays out and maintains an ice road across the lake.
The Riverhurst Ferry is Saskatchewan's largest ferry, with a length of 35.6 metres (117 ft), a width of 14 metres (46 ft), and a load limit 90.7 tonnes (89.3 long tons; 100.0 short tons). It carries a maximum off fifteen cars on each crossing. It is powered by a computer-controlled engine and powers a central drive cable. There are three guide cables, two mounted one foot from the left and right sides, and a middle cable running underneath the hull.
In 2003, the Riverhurst Ferry was renovated, with additions of a new drive system, control tower and passenger areas, including restrooms and a small lounge. After the renovations, the ferry was plagued with technical difficulties involving the drive system. The ferry frequently broke down and as a result was unreliable for years after. Presently, the ferry is operating normally.
The ferry carries about 30,000 vehicles a year.
See also
References
- ^ "Ferry Crossings: Riverhurst Ferry". Ministry of Highways and Infrastructure, Government of Saskatchewan. Retrieved November 28, 2019.
- ^ "Ice Roads". The Encyclopedia of Saskatchewan. University of Regina. Retrieved November 25, 2008.
- ^ "Transportation". The Encyclopedia of Saskatchewan. University of Regina. Retrieved November 25, 2008.