The sixth and last in a series of BC Ferries hybrid electric ships is on its way home.
The vessel, temporarily named Island 6, transited the Panama Canal on Nov. 18 — it departed a Romanian shipyard in October, according to a release from BC Ferries.
The company expects the vessel will enter service next year on the Nanaimo Harbour – Gabriola Island route, along with a second Island Class ship. BC Ferries said Island 6 will be given an official name before it enters service.
The Island Class series are battery equipped and designed for future full electric operation. The ships are fitted with hybrid technology that bridges the gap until shore charging infrastructure can be installed. They are designed for reduced underwater radiated noise and lower emissions, according to BC Ferries.
To follow the ship’s journey and track its progress, including course, position and speed, search for Island 6 on vesselfinder.com.
BC Ferries said it will take ownership of the new ferry upon final inspection at Point Hope Maritime in Victoria.
