Introduction to Descanso Bay - Nanaimo Harbour 2025 Project

Marine Infrastructure Life Extensions: No extended closure period required

Over the last several months, our teams have been reviewing the requirements for berth infrastructure upgrades and replacements for Descanso Bay and Nanaimo Harbour. After careful consideration, the decision has been made to shift the focus of the project from berth rebuilds to berth life extensions.

This change reflects our commitment to both sustainability and fiscal responsibility while still meeting the needs of the community. Extending the life of the current infrastructure allows us to:

What Does This Mean for the Community?

The revised scope will focus on targeted upgrades and maintenance and providing continued safe and reliable service.

With a focus on life extensions, an extended closure period will not be required. Shortened berth closures, night work or schedule changes may still be necessary during the project, but timing and duration needs are still being explored.

In addition, work continues to move ahead as planned with the electrification, and introduction of the new hybrid electric Island Class vessels, expected to enter service in early 2027.

Next Steps

Work on planning and mitigations during construction is now underway and we will keep you informed at every stage of the process and plan. Construction is expected to begin in fall 2025 and be completed in spring 2026.

Community Engagement

Your input remains vital to this process.

Early in 2025, we will be engaging both in community and online. This will include an update on the full project details, timelines, and preliminary plans for the alternate service. These conversations will be an opportunity for those who rely on the service to provide their input on how we can mitigate service interruptions and keep the Island connected.