21-031
July 21, 2021
BC Ferries' third hybrid electric Island Class ferry expected to arrive tomorrow
VICTORIA – BC Ferries’ newest Island Class ferry, temporarily named Island 3, is expected to arrive at Ogden Point in Victoria, B.C. tomorrow morning and then transit to Point Hope Maritime in the afternoon.
Under its own power, the vessel departed Damen Shipyards Galati in Romania on May 19 on a 64-day, approximately 10,700 nautical mile transatlantic journey to Victoria, British Columbia. Customers can see the vessel as it sails around southern Vancouver Island and into Victoria’s Upper Harbour from a number of downtown Victoria locations including Dallas Road, Fisherman’s Wharf, the Songhees Walkway, Wharf Street, and the Johnson Street Bridge.
The Island Class are battery-equipped ships designed for future full electric operation. The ships are fitted with hybrid technology that bridges the gap until shore charging infrastructure and funding becomes available in B.C. From the exterior details to the engines, the design of the new vessels reduces underwater radiated noise, lowers emissions and improves customer service.
Upon arrival at Point Hope Maritime, final inspections will take place and BC Ferries will take ownership of the vessel. With two identical Island Class vessels already in service, BC Ferries is realizing the benefits of standardization. Dock fits and crew familiarization for Island 3 are already complete, reducing logistical, operational, training and maintenance costs, contributing to a more efficient ferry system overall.
BC Ferries looks forward to welcoming this new Island Class ferry into service next year. Together, Island 3 and Island 4 will provide two-ship service on the Campbell River – Quadra Island Route starting in 2022. BC Ferries looks forward to officially naming the vessels later this summer and celebrating with the communities, when the time is right.
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