Mechanical problems have docked one of the two ferries serving people in Labrador, leaving many feeling frustrated.

The MV Sir Robert Bond, which sails between the towns of Happy Valley–Goose Bay and Cartwright in Labrador and Lewisporte on Newfoundland's north coast, was supposed to be up and running by early June. However, a series of mechanical problems has docked the ferry for at least the next two weeks, according to officials with the province's transportation department.

Happy Valley–Goose Bay resident Gail Thorne has been waiting since June 22 to have a container filled with her belongings shipped to Lewisporte.

"I have no idea when this container is going to reach Lewisporte," Thorne told CBC News.

While there is now a road that allows people to drive to the Strait of Belle Isle, the road is still in rough shape. In the past, the department of transportation warned people in cars and vans to avoid it. Thorne said people in the region have been left with no alternatives.

"No provision has been put in place by any government official to move freight or passengers, vehicles out of Goose Bay [or] into Goose Bay," said Thorne.

Transportation Minister Tom Hedderson said Friday they are working to repair the ferry as quickly as possible. During sea trials after the annual re–fit, Hedderson said the crew discovered the ship's control system had to be replaced entirely. That part is on order but, in the meantime, he said there isn't another ferry available to replace the Bond.

Hedderson said technicians are trying to come up with a temporary solution, but that he isn't offering any guarantees.

"Hopefully, I'll get good news, if not today, sometime in the next couple of days, whether or not we can do it. And if we can't do it, I'll have to go back to the people and say, 'it can't be done, and here, the complete system needs to be done, and this is the time it's going to take,'" said Hedderson.

The ferry, which operates from June to late November, can carry 250 passengers and 100 vehicles.