BC Ferries has released two conceptual drawings that depict what its newest set of ferries would look like when they begin service in 2029 on the most active routes to and from Vancouver Island and Metro Vancouver.
The renderings, released Feb. 26, offer some insight on the seven new ferries, whose basic design is being developed with naval architect LMG Marin AS.
The design centers around maximum efficiency and greenhouse gas emission reduction and would feature engines that can use bio- and renewable fuels, a battery-hybrid propulsion system to enable vessels to convert to full battery-electric operation when the shore power infrastructure is available.
Once completed, the new vessels would be able to ferry 360 vehicles and 2,100 people, more than the current vessels’ capability of 250-310 vehicles and 1,200-1,500 people.
“The New Major Vessels program is the largest part of our capital plan to modernize and transform the ferry experience in British Columbia,” BC Ferries President and CEO Nicolas Jimenez said.
“These vessels – greener, more efficient and standardized – represent the future of ferry travel in our province,” he continued. “They will significantly increase daily capacity, provide an enhanced customer experience, improve reliability and reduce environmental impacts.”
Meanwhile, BC Ferries has issued a Request for Supplier Qualification for the program, available through global shipbroker Clarksons and on bcbid.gov.bc.ca until March 22.
BC Ferries has also said that it plans to start a Request for Proposal process for qualified shipyards this summer.
