An economic impact study of the ‘CAT’ ferry is expected ‘within the coming months.’

That’s according to Public Works minister Fred Tilley, when asked about the Yarmouth-to-Maine vessel.

An interim report released last year said the service benefits all regions.

Passenger numbers took a dip to around 40,000 this year, down just under 20 percent from last season due to less Canadians heading south of the border.

Tilley says it was still the second-best season on record.

“From that interim report, we know that travelers on the ferry spend more time in Nova Scotia and money, and that they travel throughout the province,” said Tilley after cabinet meetings Thursday.

The province’s contract with Bay Ferries will end after the 2026 season.

“We have a contract through the end of the next season, and when we get our final report we’ll be able to make decisions going forward.” added Tilley.