BC Ferries’ Island Class project will mark a major milestone tomorrow (Dec. 21), when the sixth vessel in the Island Class series arrives in Victoria.
Island 6, as it is temporarily named, departed Damen Shipyards Galati in Romania Oct. 11 on a 72-day transoceanic journey. It will transit to Point Hope Maritime after stopping in Victoria, according to a media release from BC Ferries.
The ship will be visible as it sails around southern Vancouver Island and into Victoria’s Upper Harbour from a number of downtown Victoria locations, including Dallas Road, Fisherman’s Wharf, the Songhees Walkway, Wharf Street and the Johnson Street Bridge, according to the release.
The Island Class are battery-equipped ships designed for future 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. The design of the new vessels reduces underwater radiated noise and lowers emissions, according to BC Ferries.
Once final inspections are complete at Point Hope Maritime, BC Ferries will take ownership of the vessel. The new ship’s name will be unveiled at a later date and it will enter service next year on the Nanaimo Harbour – Gabriola Island route
