Damen Completes Sea Trials for BC Ferries' Latest Island Class Vessel

Damen Shipyards Group has announced the successful completion of sea trials for the latest Island Class ferry being built for BC Ferries. This seventh vessel in the series of ten Island Class ferries is a significant step forward in BC Ferries' fleet renewal and sustainability initiatives. According to gCaptain, the sea trials were conducted off the coast of Romania, where the vessel was constructed. The trials evaluated the ferry's systems, performance, and overall readiness for delivery and entry into service. Damen reported that the trials were completed 'to the full satisfaction of BC Ferries.' The Island Class ferries are battery-electric ready, designed to operate as hybrid diesel-electric vessels initially, with the capability to be converted to all-electric propulsion as shore charging infrastructure becomes available. This aligns with BC Ferries' goal of transitioning its fleet to clean energy sources and reducing emissions. 'The successful sea trials of the seventh Island Class ferry is an important milestone in our fleet renewal program,' said Mark Collins, President and CEO of BC Ferries. 'These new vessels will provide reliable, sustainable service for our customers for years to come.' The delivery of this latest Island Class ferry to BC Ferries is expected in the coming months, with the remaining three vessels in the series scheduled for delivery by 2024. The introduction of these modern, environmentally-friendly ferries is a key part of BC Ferries' strategy to modernize its fleet and reduce its carbon footprint.