BC Ferries Reinforces The Need To Build Five New Major Vessels

BC Ferries has submitted a supplemental application to the BC Ferries Commissioner reaffirming that building five New Major Vessels remains the most cost-effective solution for customers and coastal communities amid rising global economic uncertainty.

BC Ferries originally proposed building five vessels and life-extending two legacy ships, increasing the major vessel fleet from 11 to 12. It says it could extend the life of just one ship, ultimately maintaining the major fleet at 11 ships.

While BC Ferries still recommends the original plan as the best long-term solution, the alternative presents a more financially responsible way to ensure system sustainability.

BC Ferries says its fleet is already stretched, with consecutive years of record-setting passenger volumes.

British Columbia's population is projected to increase up to 44% by 2046, according to BC stats, with demand for ferry travel expected to continue rising, yet major route capacity hasn’t meaningfully increased in nearly 30 years.

Sailings on the major routes—which on average generate over 82% of all customer fare revenues—ran at an average 92% capacity during the peak season in 2024, with many sailings fully booked days in advance.

When ships are running at higher capacity, the potential for delays increases significantly. BC Ferries notes that on-time performance has dropped to almost its lowest level in years because crews are taking additional time to squeeze extra vehicles on.

The need for five vessels is also something BC Ferries says customers feel strongly about.

In a December 2024 survey of 2,000 customers, 95% of respondents agreed with the plan to add an additional vessel to the fleet.

For more information, visit BC Ferries.