Each year thousands of people make the trek from North Sydney, Nova Scotia to Port aux Basques, Newfoundland and Labrador on a Marine Atlantic vessel - and it will be no different next August when we welcome thousands of visitors for the 2025 Canada Games.  

What people may not know is the historic significance of this route in Indigenous culture. Mi’kmaw travelers have used this pathway for many reasons—building community relationships, hunting, and fishing. That’s why Marine Atlantic wanted to recognize the Mi’kmaw people through the naming of its new vessel, Ala’suinu, which set sail earlier this year.

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As Marine Atlantic looked at options for the naming of the new vessel, employees overwhelmingly highlighted Truth and Reconciliation as their top priority. They consulted with mi’kmaw language speakers regarding potential names that would recognize their culture and heritage in a respectful and meaningful manner. The vessel’s name, the Ala’suinu, represents Marine Atlantic’s commitment to Truth and Reconciliation and pays tribute to the Mi’kmaw people who historically traveled between Newfoundland and Nova Scotia. The name Ala’suinu, actually means “Traveller” in Mi’kmaw. The route that Ala’suinu travels is of historic and spiritual significance. 

"The route (from North Sydney to Port Aux Basques) represents a very historic, deep-rooted relationship,” said Megan Bateman, Marine Atlantic's Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Specialist. “Mi’kmaw travelers would have taken this route for many reasons—building community relationships, hunting, fishing. It's not that far outside of our living memory that elders would have traveled this same journey by birchbark canoe."

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Loretta Gould

People traveling to and from Newfoundland will notice the dedication to highlighting Indigenous culture throughout the vessel from the incorporation of Indigenous inspired menu items such as bison and arctic char, to showcasing Indigenous artwork that correlates with the name. 

"We wanted the art to reflect both the cultural and literal meaning of the Mi’kmaw word for ‘traveler,’" said Bateman. "In Mi’kmaw, a verb-based language, the word has inherent meanings that go beyond the literal—incorporating animals, land, water, and the act of travel itself."

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Alan Syliboy

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Loretta Gould

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Marcus Goss

This integration of art and culture transforms the Ala’suinu into more than just a vessel—it becomes a moving experience, rich with historical and spiritual meaning.

Marine Atlantic’s collaboration with Indigenous communities doesn’t end with the naming of the vessel. The company continues to make Indigenous culture visible and incorporate traditional perspectives into its operations. 

"Truth and Reconciliation is a journey, not a destination. It’s about continuing to build relationships built on reciprocity and trust, ensuring that Indigenous representation remains meaningful and impactful."

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As the Ala’suinu prepares to carry the 2025 Canada Games torch in June 2025 along with thousands of visitors, it stands as a symbol of connection, not only between Newfoundland and Nova Scotia but between Indigenous and non-Indigenous communities. 

This partnership showcases the power of reconciliation, heritage, and the importance of honouring the land and people who have traveled these routes for generations.

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The National Day of Truth and Reconciliation serves as a reminder that reconciliation is an ongoing journey, one that requires collaboration, understanding, and meaningful action.

In our path to hosting the Games, we reaffirm our commitment to creating an environment where Indigenous voices are heard, and where their stories and traditions are honoured and valued.

We encourage everyone to wear orange today and take the time to listen, learn, and reflect.

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