Damen Launches New Hybrid-Electric Ferry for BC Ferries Fleet Expansion

Damen Shipyards Galati has launched the newest addition to BC Ferries’ Island Class fleet, marking another step forward in the ferry operator’s fleet modernization and sustainability efforts. The vessel, a Damen RoRo 8117 E3 model, is the seventh of its kind to be delivered to BC Ferries and the first of four new battery-equipped diesel-hybrid ferries currently under construction.

Designed to operate on electric power once terminal charging infrastructure is established, the vessels are part of BC Ferries’ long-term plan to reduce emissions across its operations. The new ferries will serve routes connecting four coastal communities in British Columbia, specifically between Nanaimo and Gabriola Island and Campbell River and Quadra Island.

Each vessel has a capacity of up to 47 vehicles and 390 passengers and will recharge using renewable energy sources during passenger boarding and disembarkation.

The launch took place during a milestone-heavy week at Damen’s Galati yard. On May 23, just one day after the seventh vessel entered the water, the shipyard also held a keel-laying ceremony for the ninth Island Class ferry and commenced steel cutting for the tenth.

Leo Postma, Executive Director of Global Sales at Damen, noted the significance of the week’s events. “It’s encouraging to witness the momentum of this program, with multiple key construction phases taking place in parallel. These milestones reflect the steady progress in building a more sustainable fleet.”

BC Ferries’ Executive Director of Shipbuilding, Ed Hooper, was on-site for the ceremonies. He took part in the traditional coin-welding during the keel-laying and attended celebrations marking the steel cutting and vessel launch.

“The Island Class now represents the largest single class in our fleet,” Hooper stated. “These ferries are vital to our ongoing strategy to renew and modernize our vessels, ensuring we continue to serve the people of British Columbia effectively and sustainably.”

With the delivery of these four new vessels, BC Ferries will soon have a total of ten Island Class ships in operation.