Texada Island’s new ferry is now preparing for the trip home to BC.
BC Ferries’ two newest hybrid electric ships arrived at the Panama Canal today. The vessels departed Constanta, Romania, on November 20 on a semi-submersible transport vessel. The ships are currently preparing to clear the Panama Canal, which will likely take a few days due to other marine traffic, fuel bunkering and a vessel inspection. BC Ferries expects the ships to be in BC early in the new year.
According to BC Ferries, the island-class ferries are battery equipped ships designed for full electric operation. The ships are fitted with hybrid technology that bridges the gap until shore charging infrastructure becomes available. From the exterior details to the engines, the design of the new vessels reduces underwater radiated noise, lowers emissions and improves customer service.
To follow the ships’ journey, including course, position and speed, go to vesselfinder.com. The delivery ship, named Sun Rise, is owned and operated by Pan Ocean.
BC Ferries will take ownership of the island-class ferries upon final inspection at Point Hope Maritime in Victoria. The ships will be christened before the company begins crew training, ship familiarization and dock fits.
One of the ships will go into service on the Powell River-Texada Island route by mid-2020.
