BC Ferries begins search for qualified ship builders

The future of BC Ferries is easier to visualize, now that concept drawings of proposed new vessels have been released. Up to seven of the new ships are expected to be ready for service in 2029.

On Monday, BC Ferries issued a Request for Supplier Qualification for its New Major Vessels program, with the aim of issuing a Request for Proposals this summer.

The new vessels will carry up to 360 standard sized vehicles and 2,100 people, and will replace vessels currently operating between Vancouver Island and Metro Vancouver. Those ships have a capacity of 250-310 vehicles and 1,200-1,500 people.

“These vessels — greener, more efficient and standardized — represent the future of ferry travel in our province,” BC Ferries’ President and CEO Nicolas Jimenez said. “They will significantly increase daily capacity, provide an enhanced customer experience, improve reliability and reduce environmental impacts.”

The basic design is being developed in collaboration with LMG Marin AS, and will have engines capable of using bio- and renewable fuels, as well as a battery-hybrid propulsion system that can be converted to full battery-electric operation once shore-based recharging infrastructure becomes available.