New hybrid Island Class vessels will create more capacity

BC Ferries Commissioner has approved a major capital expenditure that allows BC Ferries to take the next step towards the purchase of four new hybrid electric Island Class vessels that will increase capacity for passengers across the ferry system. To see the BC Ferries Commissioner’s ruling, visit: BC Ferry Commission: Major capital approvals

By 2027, the four new vessels will enter service on the routes connecting Nanaimo Harbour and Gabriola Island (two vessels) and Campbell River and Quadra Island (two vessels), with corresponding electrical upgrades for shore-based rapid charging made to the four terminals on these routes.

The Island Class vessels that currently serve the above routes will be able to be redeployed to greatly benefit a number of communities with increased capacity to help address current and future demands. Specifically, the Crofton to Vesuvius route will see capacity increased by 20 per cent along with increased frequency provided by two-vessel service. The Quadra to Cortes route capacity will increase by about 70 per cent through the deployment of a larger vessel, and the existing system relief vessel will be redeployed to the Denman to Hornby route year-round, doubling its capacity and particularly improving travel certainty throughout the year.

The introduction of these four new vessels will take BC Ferries a step closer toward standardization of the fleet which can help reduce the number of vessel classes the company operates. This in turn helps with maintenance, refit, training and other operational activities.

To read the full News Release, visit the News from around the fleet on the right hand side of the page, or by clicking below:

Island Class Phase 3 Electrification