BC Ferries is celebrating Earth Day 2021 with the launch of its sixth battery electric-hybrid ferry.
The vessel entered the water at Damen Shipyards Galati in Romania Wednesday morning. It is in a series of battery electric vessels in BC Ferries’ fleet, and will be one of two Island Class ferries – a hybrid diesel-electric ferry – for the Nanaimo – Gabriola Island route.
“We are excited to reach this milestone in our Island Class project,” said BC Ferries’ Vice President, Shipbuilding and Innovation Captain Jamie Marshall in a press release. “The launch of the sixth and final vessel in the series propels BC Ferries closer to reaching its goal to be efficient and environmentally responsible throughout the system.”
The new boat is scheduled to set sail in 2022 along with the fifth boat launched in February once charging stations are available at ferry terminals. The boats will be configured to operate as battery-electric ferries, using hydroelectric energy.
READ MORE: BC Ferries’ fifth hybrid-electric vessel launches in Romania
BC Ferries says the Island Class ferries will be able to carry at least 47 vehicles and up to 400 passengers and crew. They also say having two ferries replacing one for the Nanaimo – Gabriola route will allow for more frequent service.
BC Ferries has the first two Island Class boats deployed on the Powell River – Texada Island route and the Port McNeill – Alert Bay – Sointula Island route. The third and fourth new ships will provide service on the Campbell River – Quadra route in 2022.
The new boat, launched today, has yet to be given a name.
Video of the launch can be found here.
Justin Waddell
