Two new vessels are promising to deliver more frequent service and additional capacity on round trip service between Campbell River and Quadra Island this week.
Starting tomorrow, up to 11 more round trips per day are being added, which should reduce wait times and congestion on local roads.
Each vessel carries 47 vehicles, increasing capacity at peak times by nearly 40 per cent compared to the current 59-vehicle ferry, Powell River Queen.
One of the new vessels will provide 18 hours of service while the second vessel will operate during the busiest 12-hour period of the day.
The Island Class vessels are a series of hybrid-electric ships designed for future full electric operation, fitted with hybrid technology that bridges the gap until shore charging infrastructure and funding become available.
The introduction of this new service on the Campbell River – Quadra Island route allows for the retirement of the 58-year old Powell River Queen, which has served British Columbians well for decades.