BC Ferries’ second Island-class hybrid-electric ferry moves forward with construction
The second of four Island-class vessels for Canada’s BC Ferries, currently under construction at Damen Shipyards Galati in Romania, has been launched. Once operational, the ferries will provide low-emissions services connecting coastal communities along the coast of British Columbia.
When delivered, the ferry will be the eighth Island-class vessel that Damen has built for BC Ferries. The Island class is based on the design of the Damen 8117 Electric Ferry (E3).
The Galati shipyard has seen a lot of activity on Island-class vessels under construction over the past few weeks. In early July, the yard also marked the grand block assembly of the ninth vessel, and the keel laying of the tenth, on the same day.
These ferries will transport passengers between Nanaimo and Gabriola Island, and Campbell River and Quadra Island. Damen is outfitting the vessels with diesel-electric hybrid propulsion. Once the relevant electrical infrastructure is in place, BC Ferries intends to operate the ferries on 100% electric power.
Damen executive director global sales, Leo Postma said, “There’s been a lot of movement on the various Island-class vessels over the past few months and it’s very exciting for our team to see progress unfolding at such a rate. We continue to enjoy an excellent co-operation with BC Ferries.”
Damen is also supplying BC Ferries with onshore charging equipment and will, via its BC-based Service Hub, continue to provide its client with support during the vessels’ operational phase.
