BCF goes local for new ferry

BC Ferries in Canada has signed a $45.5 million contract with Vancouver Shipyards, a Washington Marine Group company, to build a new 125-car intermediate size ferry. Construction on the 100 metre vessel will begin later this year and the ship is expected to

enter service by the summer of 2008.

The 3,500 gt newbuilding will allow for the retirement of the 46-year-old ?Queen of Tsawwassen?, and will initially sail on the Earls Cove – Saltery Bay route on the Sunshine Coast. The design of the vessel includes a comfortable lounge, a snack bar and a new state-of-the-art lifesaving system.

The process for selecting the successful builder was started last year with 14 shipyards invited to participate in the prequalification process and as a result two Canadian shipyards and one international yard were short listed. Last year, the three yards submitted bids and, on 20 September 2005, BC Ferries signed a formal letter of intent with the Washington Marine Group.

Under the fixed-price contract, the shipyard is responsible for the detailed design and construction of the vessel. The shipyard guarantees performance related to speed, carrying capacity, manoeuvrability, fuel consumption and delivery. The design of this

new vessel underwent stringent test criteria, including tank testing of the hull and simulated demonstration of handling characteristics.

Over the next five years, BC Ferries will add eight new vessels at a cost of $1 billion

to ensure the continued safety and reliability of its fleet.