To ensure we continue to provide the best in safety and comfort for the 21 million passengers who travel with us each year, we've embarked on the largest vessel revitalization program in our company's history with a plan to replace 26 vessels over the next 15 years. Even more exciting is that seven of these new vessels will be sailing the waters of British Columbia by the summer of 2009.
The Kuper is Here!
On January 26, 2007, we welcomed our first new vessel in eleven years with the introduction of the Kuper, a 32-vehicle, 300 passenger ferry that will operate on our Gulf Island routes.
Our New & Improved Northern Fleet
In March 2007, the Northern Adventure joined the fleet operating on our scenic northern routes between Port Hardy and Prince Rupert and Prince Rupert and the Queen Charlotte Islands, bringing enhanced service and an unparalleled travel experience to our local customers and those travelling to B.C. from throughout the world. By the spring of 2009, the Northern Expedition, a new vessel being constructed by Flensburger shipyard, will also join the northern fleet, offering customers an outstanding experience onboard a state-of-the-art vessel.
Three More Exceptional Ships Coming Soon!
In early 2008 we welcomed Coastal Renaissance, the first of our three new Super C-class ships, to the fleet. The vessel began operating on the Departure Bay - Horseshoe Bay route in spring. The Coastal Inspiration was next and is now sailing between Duke Point and Tsawwassen. Our third and final Super C, Coastal Celebration, has arrived in BC and will be introduced to the Tsawwassen - Swartz Bay route shortly.
BC Ferries' Super Cs are the largest double-ended ferries in the world, featuring two passenger decks providing an unprecedented travel experience for BC Ferries customers. Passengers will find more space, more comfortable seating and better viewing areas onboard the Coastal Renaissance, Coastal Inspiration and Coastal Celebration, as well as many enhanced food and retail services.
Joining the Fleet in 2008
In 2008, the Island Sky will join the BC Ferries team, allowing for the retirement of the 45-year-old Queen of Tsawwassen. The new 125-car intermediate size ferry, which is currently under construction at Vancouver Shipyards in North Vancouver, will initially sail on our beautiful Earls Cove – Saltery Bay route on the Sunshine Coast. The new vessel will offer a comfortable lounge, a snack bar and a new state-of-the-art lifesaving system.
