Romania-based Damen shipyard introduces electric-ready ferry for Canadian firm BC Ferries
A newly designed Island Class Ferry, developed by Damen Shipyards Galati, was launched for British Columbia's (BC) Ferries on May 22, 2025. The vessel marks the seventh Damen vessel to join BC Ferries' fleet and represents the first in an order of four battery-equipped diesel-hybrid vessels.
Despite the Romanian launch, the ferry, modelled as a Damen RoRo 8117 E3, is slated to serve as the first of a series that will bring the total number of Damen vessels in BC Ferries' fleet to ten.
Its operational capabilities include the ability to operate exclusively on electric power once charging infrastructure is established at terminals. The ferry is designed to transport up to 47 vehicles and 390 passengers, and it's equipped to recharge during passenger embarkation using renewable energy.
The ferry will connect four coastal communities in British Columbia, providing service between Nanaimo and Gabriola Island, and Campbell River and Quadra Island, respectively.
Leo Postma, executive director of global sales at Damen, emphasized the significance of the project's progress, stating, "It's great to see the projects moving forward in this manner, with so many milestone moments taking place all at once." He further added, "The Island Class vessels are now our largest single class, and they are a crucial part of our ongoing efforts to renew and modernize our entire fleet to address the evolving needs of residents in British Columbia who rely on BC Ferries daily."
The Canadian Ambassador to Romania, His Excellency Gavin Buchan, was also present at the launch. He highlighted the vessel's technological prowess and its contribution to the fight against climate change, stating, "As a fully electric ferry, this vessel will be at the forefront of technology and will play a meaningful role in combating climate change. It symbolizes both the strength of our partnership and the promising future that lies ahead."
In addition to providing the vessels, Damen is also set to supply onshore charging equipment to BC Ferries. Post-delivery in 2027, Damen will continue to offer support for the ferries via its Canadian Service Hub in Victoria.
- The progress of the Island Class Ferry project, a testament to technological innovation, has significant implications for environmental science, as it will serve as a model for combating climate change.
- The integration of this Damen vessel into British Columbia's (BC) Ferries fleet, along with three more of its kind, signifies a crucial step in the finance sector, with investments towards greener and more sustainable transportation solutions.
- As the first of its kind to feature battery-equipped diesel-hybrid technology, this Damen vessel represents a substantial leap in science and industry, paving the way for more efficient and eco-friendly transportation solutions.
