BC Ferries is offering one lucky buyer the rare opportunity to purchase one of its outgoing vessels as the company ushers in two-ship service.
The MV Powell River Queen, which sails between Campbell River and Quadra Island, is currently listed for sale with the highest of 17 bids sitting at $200,000.
According to the listing on IronPlanet, the double-ended vessel was built in 1965, features five decks and can fit up to 400 passengers and 61 vehicles. It measures 84 metres long with 3,598 horsepower.
Deb Marshall, spokesperson for BC Ferries, on Monday told CHEK News that the Powell River Queen will stay in service until a hybrid-electric service shakeup bound for the popular route.
“In the new year, we will be implementing two vessel service between Campbell River and Quadra Island. So that will be two of our new Island Class and we’re very excited to get those ships into service,” Marshall said.
“What that means is that the Powell River Queen will be surplused to our needs, and that vessel is currently for sale. It will be available for a new owner when the new ships come into operation.”
Marshall says in the past, the company has sold its vessels to logging operators or other transportation companies, noting: “there might be another ferry operator in the world who would like to continue to operate that ship.”
“We hope it’s sold at a going concern, it’s been a great ship for us,” she said.
Ethan Morneau
