British Columbia’s central coast will be getting a new ferry and seasonal service in 2018 thanks to BC Ferries buying a new ship from Greece.
The new 75-metre ferry, currently named the Aqua Spirit and built in 2000, would be used for a seasonal service between Port Hardy and Bella Coola.
“When the Province announced its commitment to the new route last year, BC Ferries launched an international search to secure an appropriate vessel,” BC Ferries’ President and CEO Mark Collins said in a release.
“We looked at numerous ships on the global market using both experienced ship brokers and direct contacts. We believe this vessel, with its strong sea-keeping ability, size and
enhanced amenities, will provide an excellent experience for customers exploring the spectacular Great Bear Rainforest.”
The new ship, according to BC Ferries, will accommodate a minimum of 35 vehicles and 150 passengers and crew. BC Ferries takes possession of the ship in August.
Modifications like overhauling the main engines and generators, upgrading machinery and navigation equipment and replacing the lifesaving equipment will be done from the fall 2017 to spring 2018. All of the passenger areas on the ship will also undergo a makeover.
While the ferry already fits into BC Ferries’ northern berths, several smaller terminals will need to be modified to make room for the new ship.
Summer service is set to begin in 2018 and will run weekdays from mid-June through to mid-September on a direct route, which will take about 10 hours between Port Hardy and Bella Coola. BC Ferries says the ship will also provide service to other mid-coast ports of Bella Bella, Ocean Falls and Shearwater in the summer, as well as in the off-season.
The goal, BC Ferries says, is to maximize tourism in the area, support Aboriginal tourism and the mid-coast economy.
BC Ferries says it will be talking to the mid-coast community about the exact sailing schedule, naming of the vessel and onboard amenities.
More details will be announced by BC Ferries in the weeks ahead.
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