BC Ferries intends to order five new vessels

BC Ferries has issued requests for expressions of interest (RFEOI) for the procurement of five new vessels to replace its aging fleet.

The competitive bidding process is open to local, national and international shipyards, including consortiums.

The first RFEOI is for the procurement process for the construction of four 81-metre Island-class ferries, each with a capacity of 450 passengers and 47 vehicles.

The expected delivery date for the first two of these vessels is in 2020, with the following two ships delivered in 2021.

The second RFEOI is for the construction of one 107-metre Salish-class vessel with a capacity of 600 passengers and 138 vehicles. The expected delivery date for this vessel is in 2021.

BC Ferries holds the design rights to both classes of vessels and will be provide the designs to the shipyards.