New hybrid electric ferries arrive tomorrow

BC Ferries’ new hybrid ships are expected to arrive in Victoria on Saturday, January 18. The Island Class are battery equipped ships designed for 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.

The vessels departed Constanta, Romania on November 20 on a semi-submersible transport vessel.

The ships will spend five days at the Breakwater District at Ogden Point in Victoria while preparations are made to unload and deliver them to Point Hope Maritime in Victoria, B.C.

To do so, the semisubmersible transport ship will partially submerge and the two ships will be floated off and maneuvered by tugs to Point Hope Maritime.

The shipyard that built the ferries has an agreement with Point Hope Maritime of Victoria, B.C. to provide technical and warranty support for the new vessels, ensuring repair and maintenance activities will be performed in British Columbia.

Point Hope Maritime is re-commissioning the ships, as is required after the transport. This work includes starting up all of the systems and final inspections.

BC Ferries will take ownership following this process. The ships will then be christened before BC Ferries moves on to crew training, ship familiarization and dock fits.

“It’s an exciting day for BC Ferries and coastal B.C. communities as we welcome these ships to their new home,” says Mark Collins, BC Ferries’ President & CEO.

“The anticipated arrival of these battery hybrid-electric ferries marks a major milestone in our plan to progressively lower emissions across our fleet and be a leader in transitioning to a lower carbon future.”