CORNER BROOK, Nfld. – Marine Atlantic has once again anchored down two of its older ferries because of mechanical problems while a third is docked for scheduled maintenance.

The MV Joseph and Clara Smallwood are out of service until at least Oct. 25 because of problems with the ship’s rudder.

And with the MV Atlantic Vision in drydock for fall repairs, that leaves just the MV Leif Ericson and MV Caribou taking loads and passengers between North Sydney to Port aux Basques.

According to CBC, Marine Atlantic is not taking any reservations for crossings before Oct. 16 while the two remaining ferries work on a load-and-go basis.

Truckers waiting endlessly for transport told local media that the situation "is desperate."

The Crown Corporation is now scrambling to book new sailings for companies that currently have reservations.