Construction is officially underway at @DamenShipyardsYT for two of the four new battery-electric hybrid Island Class vessels. Another leap forward in #BCFerries fleet renewal strategy, and our ongoing commitment to modernizing our fleet, enhancing service, and promoting environmental sustainability.
Key features and benefits of the new Island Class vessels include:
𝐈𝐧𝐜𝐫𝐞𝐚𝐬𝐞𝐝 𝐜𝐚𝐩𝐚𝐜𝐢𝐭𝐲: each vessel will accommodate nearly 47 vehicles and 400 passengers, providing greater service capacity and comfort for our customers.
𝐄𝐧𝐡𝐚𝐧𝐜𝐞𝐝 𝐞𝐧𝐯𝐢𝐫𝐨𝐧𝐦𝐞𝐧𝐭𝐚𝐥 𝐬𝐮𝐬𝐭𝐚𝐢𝐧𝐚𝐛𝐢𝐥𝐢𝐭𝐲: designed to operate on renewable @bchydro electricity, these vessels will significantly reduce our environmental footprint, supporting the Province’s CleanBC goals and bringing us closer to our 2030 targets by reducing emissions by 10,000 tons of CO2 equivalent.
𝐈𝐦𝐩𝐫𝐨𝐯𝐞𝐝 𝐜𝐫𝐞𝐰 𝐝𝐞𝐩𝐥𝐨𝐲𝐦𝐞𝐧𝐭: the new design will streamline crew operations, enhancing efficiency and effectiveness by having similar technology and protocols across the fleet.
𝐐𝐮𝐢𝐞𝐭𝐞𝐫 𝐬𝐡𝐢𝐩𝐬: the updated propulsion system will reduce underwater radiated noise, ensuring quieter operations - benefiting marine life and enhancing the overall passenger experience.
The new Island Class vessels will service the Nanaimo Harbour - Gabriola Island route and the Campbell River - Quadra Island route, with plans for fleet redeployment to address capacity constraints on the Crofton - Vesuvius route, Quadra Island - Cortes Island route and the Denman Island - Hornby Island route. This project will result in significant capacity increases and improved travel certainty, particularly during refit periods.
We remain committed to delivering a superior travel experience while upholding our responsibility to the environment. Set to begin arriving in BC in 2026, these new vessels will enhance our service capabilities and support the coastal communities we serve.