September 22, 2026
Two new BC Ferries vessels carrying names gifted by Snuneymuxw First Nation now in service
Summary:
- Island xwsaĺux̌ul (xwus-saw-la-kwahl) and Island sarlequun (sar-le-qwun) are now in service between Nanaimo and Gabriola Island, carrying names gifted by Snuneymuxw First Nation.
- Their entry into service marks a shared milestone that honours the deep connection of the Snuneymuxw peoples to the lands and waters where the vessels operate.
- The new vessels are scheduled to provide two-ship service between Nanaimo Harbour and Gabriola Island (Descanso Bay), while enabling existing Island Class vessels to be redeployed across the ferry system, with the goal of improving reliability, capacity and operational flexibility on various inter-island routes.
The name xwsaĺux̌ul, meaning “the grassy place,” carries deep cultural and historical significance, including as the site where the Snuneymuxw Sarlequun Treaty of 1854 was signed. sarlequun, meaning “People at Nanaimo Harbour,” also honours the continued presence of the Snuneymuxw community.
“Seeing Island xwsaĺux̌ul and Island sarlequun now in service is an important moment,” said Nicolas Jimenez, President and CEO of BC Ferries. “We are grateful to Snuneymuxw First Nation for gifting these names and for the opportunity to carry them on vessels operating in these waters. We recognize the significance the names hold for the Nation and the importance of carrying them with respect, as we continue working to provide reliable and more sustainable connections for coastal communities.”
“We are honoured to see the name xwsaĺux̌ul and sarlequun carried by these vessels as they travel through the heart of our territory,” said Chief Mike Wyse, Xum'silum, Snuneymuxw First Nation. “We appreciate BC Ferries’ commitment to building a relationship grounded in respect, recognition, and meaningful action. We support this initiative based on a clear understanding of the rights enshrined in our Snuneymuxw Sarlequun Treaty of 1854. On behalf of Snuneymuxw First Nation, we extend our well wishes for safe passage to all those who journey across sacred waters aboard xwsaĺux̌ul and sarlequun.”
Island xwsaĺux̌ul and Island sarlequun are currently scheduled to provide two-ship service between Nanaimo (Nanaimo Harbour) and Gabriola Island (Descanso Bay), supporting service delivery for residents and visitors who depend on the route.
The vessels are part of BC Ferries’ broader work to renew its fleet and prepare the ferry system for the future. The Island Class vessels are battery-equipped diesel-hybrids that are designed to be capable of operating exclusively on renewable electric power once shore-based charging infrastructure is available.
The benefits of the new vessels are also expected to extend to other coastal communities. As additional Island Class vessels enter service, existing vessels are being redeployed across the ferry system with the goal of supporting reliability, capacity and operational flexibility on other inter-island routes.
Island sarlequun replaces Island Gwawis (gwa-wis), which is currently planned to be redeployed to the Crofton–Vesuvius Bay route in early 2027 as one of two vessels planned for the route. The move is designed to support increased capacity and help manage traffic volumes at the terminals. More information, including the anticipated start date for two-ship service, will be shared with customers and the community as operational planning is finalized.
The entry into service of Island xwsaĺux̌ul and Island sarlequun reflects BC Ferries’ broader efforts to renew assets, support reliable service and build meaningful relationships with Indigenous communities whose territories our vessels travel through every day.
Visit the BC Ferries website to learn more about fleet renewal and the Island Class program.
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