Local community members, government officials, and industry leaders gathered at the Strait of Canso Yacht Club and Port Hawkesbury Pier to celebrate the christening of EverWind’s new purpose-built tugboat fleet: EverWind Pride, EverWind Rose Gold, and Dawson Duck.
The ceremony, emceed by Warden of Richmond County Lois Landry, featured keynote remarks from The Honourable Julie Dabrusin, Minister of Environment and Climate Change of Canada, along with The Honourable Trevor Boudreau, Nova Scotia’s Minister of Energy, EverWind CEO Trent Vichie, and Port Hawkesbury Mayor Brenda Chisholm-Beaton.
Guests also enjoyed a traditional Mi’kmaw performance by the Stoney Bear Singers and Kate Jadis and Leon Julien, followed by a Mi’kmaw prayer led by conductor of ceremonies, Jeff Ward. A traditional bottle-breaking ceremony followed, featuring Minister Dabrusin, Chief Terry Paul of Membertou, Warden Landry, and Mayor Chisholm-Beaton.
This $50 million investment is one of the largest private sector commitments in the Strait of Canso region in more than 50 years. The new fleet represents a major step forward for local industry, creating at least 15 skilled jobs and delivering long-term economic benefits through locally owned and operated vessels.
“These vessels are not just an investment in EverWind’s operations. They are an investment in the Strait Area’s future, supporting economic growth, environmental leadership, and Canada’s role in the global energy transition,” said Trent Vichie, CEO of EverWind.
The tugboats are critical infrastructure for EverWind’s Point Tupper Green Fuels Project, which will produce and export green hydrogen and ammonia to global markets. The fleet will strengthen marine operations throughout the Strait of Canso and support Nova Scotia’s growing clean energy sector.
The vessels meet International Maritime Organization (IMO) Tier III emissions standards, cutting nitrogen oxide emissions by 80 percent and carbon dioxide emissions by 25 percent compared to older models. EverWind also plans to transition the fleet toward zero-carbon operations as its renewable energy projects come online.
With its deep-water, ice-free port and strategic location, the Strait of Canso is a key trade hub for Atlantic Canada. This investment enhances the region’s ability to support both traditional industries and new clean energy opportunities.
