Feasibility study finds CNMI inter‑island passenger-and-vehicle ferry viable but needs federal help and initial subsidies

A federal-funded feasibility study presented to CNMI lawmakers found a passenger-and-vehicle ferry linking Saipan, Tinian, Rota and Guam is operationally and financially viable but will need significant capital investment and early operating subsidies.

The study, led by contractor WSP and presented by Brady Nadell, recommends three purpose-built roll-on/roll-off vessels, terminal upgrades at Commonwealth Ports Authority (CPA) properties and a coordinated funding plan that pursues Federal Transit Administration (FTA), Maritime Administration (MARAD), U.S. Department of Agriculture and other grants. "A passenger and freight ferry service is financially and operationally viable," Nadell said during the presentation.

Why it matters: lawmaker and staff speakers said a ferry could lower travel costs between islands, expand family and medical access, support tourism and create jobs; it would also give Rota and Tinian more reliable links for freight and teams that currently rely on expensive air travel. Lawmakers urged rapid next steps because the system will require federal approvals, port upgrades and inter‑jurisdictional harmonization with Guam on customs and biosecurity.

Study findings and numbers: WSP modeled a fleet of three purpose-built…