YARMOUTH, Nova Scotia - The company that runs The Cat, a high-speed ferry between Maine and Nova Scotia, is cutting back service due to higher fuel costs and fewer travelers.

Bay Ferries announced Friday that after Labor Day it will reduce the number of weekly round trips from seven to five. It's also ending its service on Oct. 5, nine days earlier than planned.

The company says it's contacting passengers who've already booked for the canceled period to offer them a discount for an alternative time or to cancel the reservations.

Mark MacDonald, chief executive officer, said the company regrets the changes, but his company faces the same pressures as airlines.

He said fuel costs have "significantly impacted" his operating costs and the number of North American vacation travelers.