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BC Ferries is set to add four new significant vessels to its fleet as part of a modernization initiative. These new ships will replace the aging Queens of Alberni, New Westminster, Coquitlam, and Cowichan, recognized as the oldest major ferries still operational.
The company had initially requested approval for five new diesel-battery hybrid vessels, which are also designed to be all-electric ready. However, the British Columbia Ferries Commissioner approved only four of these applications.
During a news conference, B.C. Premier David Eby emphasized, “This will assist with stability in the fleet, ensuring that people can reach their destinations without hassle.” He acknowledged the importance of the commissioner’s independent oversight, which aims to critically evaluate BC Ferries’ operations, including cost management and the overall impact on the public who rely on ferry services.
The announcement of the new vessels comes on the heels of a recent malfunction with the Queen of Oak Bay, which experienced mechanical issues on Monday morning. Professional chainsaw carver Ryan Cook, one of the passengers on board, described the situation as unsettling. “I was pretty shocked… I could see rocks off Nanaimo and it looked like we were drifting slowly towards them,” he recounted, noting that the passengers were treated to refreshments while the crew addressed the problem.
After being informed that the issue was related to steering, Cook reported that the ferry was stuck for nearly two hours before it could be safely guided to the dock using an alternate steering system. He remarked on the unusual delay, stating, “What would have taken normally 10 minutes took about 30 minutes.”
In light of this incident, BC Ferries announced it has amended its service between Departure Bay (Nanaimo) and Horseshoe Bay (Vancouver) for the day but did not provide a timeline for the Queen of Oak Bay’s return to service. Cook commented on the positive attitude of passengers despite the inconvenience, saying, “There’s not much you can complain about when it’s a beautiful day,” although he acknowledged that losing two and a half hours impacted their plans.
Looking ahead, the new vessels are anticipated to significantly enhance capacity and reliability on BC Ferries’ busiest routes, with the first ship expected to enter service by spring 2029. Commissioner Eva Hage, in her statement, expressed her satisfaction with the decision, noting, “I’m very pleased to be able to approve the replacement of the fleet’s four oldest major vessels,” highlighting the critical improvements that the new ships will bring to services.
Hage also pointed out that while a fifth vessel was proposed, it has been deemed neither necessary nor fiscally viable at this time, warning that its approval could lead to increased fares and greater financial strain on taxpayers.
Source
globalnews.ca