BC Ferries signs contract to build new intermediate size vessel

In keeping with its commitment to accelerate the
replacement of its older vessels, BC Ferries announced today that it has
signed a $45.5 million contract with Vancouver Shipyards, a Washington Marine
Group company, to build a new 125-car intermediate size ferry. Construction on
the 100 metre vessel will begin later this year and the ship is expected to
enter service by the summer of 2008.
The new intermediate vessel will allow for the retirement of the
46-year-old Queen of Tsawwassen. “By updating the fleet we are building a
better BC Ferries for our customers and the communities we serve,” said BC
Ferries President and CEO, David L. Hahn. The new ship will initially sail on
the Earls Cove – Saltery Bay route on the Sunshine Coast. The design of the
vessel includes a comfortable lounge, a snack bar and a new state-of-the-art
lifesaving system.