In a significant move towards enhancing its aging fleet, BC Ferries has received the green light to purchase four new major vessels, as announced by the BC Ferry Commission on Monday. This decision marks a promising step in improving service reliability and capacity on some of the busiest routes within the province.

BC Ferry Commissioner Eva Hage expressed her enthusiasm about the decision, stating, “I’m very pleased to be able to approve the replacement of the fleet’s four oldest major vessels. It will mean a vast improvement in service, reliability, and capacity.”

Initially, BC Ferries sought approval for five new vessels and the renewal of one legacy ship in a proposal submitted in February. However, the Commission adjusted their approval down to four vessels, sparking concerns from BC Ferries about future service levels. Nicolas Jimenez, the company’s president and CEO, stated, “Any option that doesn’t enable us to build five New Major Vessels now means our customers will be paying more for worsening service levels in the future as expected demand continues to grow.”

The newly approved vessels will replace the four oldest boats in the fleet: the Queens of Alberni, New Westminster, Coquitlam, and Cowichan, which have become part of BC Ferries’ legacy fleet. Commissioner Hage emphasized the importance of replacing these vessels, stating, “These four ferries are reaching the end of their lives, and additional life extensions are not an option.” She added that further investment in the aging vessels would only lead to increased risks of breakdowns and service interruptions.

Interestingly, the request for a fifth vessel was denied, with Hage explaining that the addition would not be essential or affordable at this time. “Approving it would be fiscally irresponsible, leading to potential fare increases and unsustainable debt levels,” she affirmed.

Premier David Eby commented on the situation, acknowledging the complexity of BC Ferries’ governance while expressing faith in the commissioner’s judgment. “We’ll ensure that the decision benefits all British Columbians,” Eby said, highlighting the importance of a critical examination of B.C. Ferries’ proposals.

The new ferries are expected to be in service by spring 2029, bringing much-needed capacity and operational reliability to the ferry system. This news comes at a time when BC Ferries has faced operational challenges, including ongoing issues with the Queen of Oak Bay, which was recently docked in Nanaimo due to steering problems.

As the future of BC Ferries brightens with these new additions, one can’t help but wonder: what other improvements lie ahead for the province's vital maritime service? Stay tuned!