VICTORIA - We're learning more about the whereabouts and the arrival of a so-called ghost-ship making its way to Vancouver Island.

The vessel, MV Sun Sea is believed to be carrying migrants from Sri Lanka.

And while the international community has been monitoring its voyage for more than four months, the Canadian government is only now starting to acknowledge the ship and her passengers existence.

Federal cabinet ministers are finally speaking out confirming what many have suspected for weeks.

/A\ News has learned the vessel could land between August 8th and 20th. She is believed to be carrying women and children.

Why are the migrants coming?

Some believe they're seeking refugee status, others say they have links to Tamil terror groups.

In October 2009, the Ocean Lady carrying 76 Sri Lankan migrants was intercepted and towed to Ogden point in Victoria.

The group on board claimed to be fleeing persecution after the country's bloody 26-year civil war.

All have been released from custody. Their claims are being processed.

While the Australian government has already turned the vessel away, Defence Minister Peter Mackay says that's not an option for Canada.

The government says it has no desire to risk the life and limb of the people on board, in the event the vessel's crew scuttles the ship or puts people overboard.