Local Company Will Bring Visitors Closer to Nature with Unique Experiences

Federal investment of $41,000 helps Linkum Tours Limited expand tourism business

June 1, 2018 – Corner Brook (NL) – Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency

Last year was the best year ever for tourism in Canada, as we welcomed a record of 20.8 million international visitors to our shores. The tourism industry is an important economic driver in our communities, as one in 10 jobs in Canada is associated with the visitor economy. Investing in tourism projects in both big cities and small communities throughout Atlantic Canada is essential to growing this important economic sector for Canadians. By investing in the tourism sector, we attract new visitors, grow businesses and create new ones, generating economic growth for the middle-class.

To this end, the Government of Canada is investing $41,000 in Linkum Tours Limited to help expand its operation with viewing pods that will overhang the cliffs of Quirpon Island, enhancing visitor experiences with a unique way to view icebergs and whales.

To celebrate Tourism Week, Gudie Hutchings, Member of Parliament for Long Range Mountains, on behalf of the Honourable Navdeep Bains, Minister of Innovation, Science and Economic Development and Minister responsible for the Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency (ACOA), and the Honourable Bardish Chagger, Leader of the Government in the House of Commons and Minister of Small Business and Tourism, today announced this repayable contribution through ACOA’s Business Development Program for the initiative.

This investment will enable the company to install two transparent viewing pods with seating to allow for a unique and direct view of whales and icebergs in the waters below. The viewing pods will complement Linkum Tours’ existing operation and help sustain employment in the region. The first pod is expected to be in place by early July.

Linkum Tours Limited operates the Quirpon Lighthouse Inn located on Quirpon Island, the most northern point on Newfoundland. The converted lighthouse is a four star inn and has been designated a Canadian Signature Experience.

This investment builds on commitments made by the Government of Canada and the four Atlantic Provinces to drive economic growth in the region through the Atlantic Growth Strategy by helping the region’s tourism industry attract more visitors and create new jobs across the region. This bold new approach is in line with Canada’s Tourism Vision, which seeks to make Canada a top-ten global tourism destination by 2025.
Today’s announcement comes as Canada celebrates Tourism Week from May 27 to June 2, 2018.