Two new hybrid-electric Island Class ferries are expected to begin round-trip services on the Campbell River–Quadra Island route in British Columbia starting Jan. 18, BC Ferries has announced.
The presence of Island Nagalis and Island K’ulut’a allows the transportation agency to bolster service route from 18 trips to as many as 29 trips daily.
With one vessel operating 18 hours and the other vessel operating 12 hours to cover the busiest time of the day, the two vessels allow BC Ferries to offer more service at peak hours and more capacity overall.
The new two-ship service helps with commuter traffic from Vancouver Island and offers Cortes Island residents a vital link to Vancouver Island, according to community feedback gathered by the agency.
The new ferries, which replace the m/v Powell River Queen, feature “hybrid technology that bridges the gap until shore charging infrastructure and funding become available,” the agency said. “From the exterior details to the engines, the design of the new vessels reduces underwater radiated noise, lowers emissions and improves customer service.”
Schedules for the new service are available at https://www.bcferries.com/routes-fares/schedules/seasonal/CAM-QDR?departureDate=20230118-20230331.
