From its site in Galati, Romania, Damen Shipyards Group has launched Island Class vessel number 9 for Canada’s BC Ferries.
This event follows the assembly of Island Class 10 in October, when the shipyard completed the grand block assembly. Both vessels are part of a four-ship order, following the delivery of Island Class vessels 1–6 between 2019 and 2021.
The ferries under construction are based on Damen’s 8117 (E3) Electric Ferry design. While currently equipped with diesel-electric hybrid propulsion, the vessels are being built to be fully electric-ready. BC Ferries plans to operate them using entirely electrical energy once the necessary shoreside infrastructure is in place.
Damen will continue to provide support to the new vessels after delivery through its Service Hub in Victoria, similar to the assistance offered for existing Island Class ferries.
When operational, Island Class vessels 7–10 will serve routes connecting Nanaimo with Gabriola Island, and Campbell River with Quadra Island. Each ferry is designed to accommodate up to 47 vehicles and 390 passengers.
