For Immediate Release
20-026
June 9, 2020

BC Ferries' Island Discovery officially begins service on June 10

North Island Princess to retire after final sailing on June 9

VICTORIA – BC Ferries’ newest vessel, Island Discovery, officially commences service on Wed., June 10 at 3:00 pm on the Texada Island – Powell River route.

Island Discovery is the first of a series of hybrid-electric ships designed for future full electric operation. The ships are fitted with hybrid technology that bridges the gap until shore charging infrastructure and funding become available.

The Island Discovery’s entry into BC Ferries’ fleet allows for the retirement of the 59-year old North Island Princess, which served British Columbians well for many decades. The second vessel in the Island Class series, Island Aurora, will replace Quadra Queen II on the Port McNeill – Alert Bay – Sointula route next week. Quadra Queen II will become a relief vessel.

Island Class ferries have the capacity to carry 47 vehicles and up to 392 passengers, depending on configuration. From the exterior details to the engines, the design of the new vessels reduces underwater radiated noise, lowers emissions and improves customer service. Partial funding for these two vessels was provided by the federal government through the Provincial – Territorial Infrastructure Component – National and Regional Projects.

BC Ferries originally planned to host a public open house to showcase Island Discovery, but due to the COVID-19 pandemic, BC Ferries created a short video with messages from community representatives, so people can take a virtual tour of the ship instead.

Photos attached
Video: https://youtu.be/ZZkezakJ2Zo

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Media Contact:
BC Ferries, Media Relations
Victoria: (250) 978-1267

Customer Contact:
Victoria: (250) 386-3431
Toll-free: 1-888-BCFERRY (1-888-223-3779)

British Columbia Ferry Services Inc., 500-1321 Blanshard Street, Victoria, BC V8W 0B7
Note to newsrooms: For urgent media inquiries off-hours, call our emergency pager at (250) 516-7211.