The Nova Star’s upper deck has a helicopter pad for use in the event of an emergency.

Capt. Peter Thompson maneuvers the Nova Star into port at Ocean Gateway in Portland last month. “This vessel has met the hardest standards you can get,” he said.

Detail of the main steering control

Captain Peter David Thompson of the The Nova Star ferry talks about safety on the vessel while it in port at Ocean Gateway in Portland on Thursday, May 30, 2014.

One of two jet boats that can be used in case someone falls overboard. The Nova Star’s lifeboats and rafts could carry 1,678 people in an emergency. The ferry’s maximum capacity is 1,300 passengers and crew.

One of two jet boats that can be used in case someone falls overboard. The Nova Star’s lifeboats and rafts could carry 1,678 people in an emergency. The ferry’s maximum capacity is 1,300 passengers and crew.

Captain Peter David Thompson of the The Nova Star ferry talks about safety on the vessel while it in port at Ocean Gateway in Portland on Thursday, May 30, 2014.