BC Ferries’ most recent project – to construct three ferries that are capable of running as dual-fuel on either LNG or ultra-low sulfur diesel – has taken a significant step forward with the first steel cut for its third new intermediate class ferry (ICF).
Whilst construction of the third vessel has only just begun, the other two, which started being built earlier this year, are progressing well. All three of the ships are being built at Remontowa Shipbuilding S.A. in Gdansk, Poland. Since construction start dates have been staggered, delivery dates will differ accordingly. The first ICF is scheduled to arrive in August 2016, the second in October 2016 and the third in February 2017.
The new ships will primarily use LNG as fuel, almost completely eliminating SOx and significantly reducing NOx. The use of LNG will result in the reduction of an estimated 9000 tpy of carbon dioxide equivalent.
The first ICF will replace the Queen of Burnaby on the Comox-Powell River route and the second will replace the Queen of Nanaimo, sailing on the Tsawwassen-Southern Gulf Islands route. The third ICF will be used to augment peak and shoulder season service on the Southern Gulf Islands route, and provide refit relief around the fleet.
“The new ships will replace vessels that are at the end of their lifecycle, and will be more fuel-efficient and cleaner burning, reducing our impact on the environment,” said Mike Corrigan, BC Ferries’ President and CEO. “We are eagerly anticipating the arrival of the new vessels and the construction start of the third ICF is an important milestone in bringing these ships one step closer to sailing in our fleet.”
Edited from press release by Callum O'Reilly