BC Ferries Fleet and Route Assignments
Maintaining a diverse fleet of vessels is essential for connecting the coastal communities of British Columbia. As of June 26, 2026, the BC Ferries fleet comprises a wide array of ships, ranging from massive double-ended ferries to specialized hybrid vessels and cable ferries, each tailored to the specific demands of their assigned routes.
The fleet is categorized by vessel class, which determines their capacity and propulsion systems. Modernization efforts are evident in the shift toward hybrid diesel-electric propulsion—systems that combine traditional diesel engines with electric power to improve efficiency—and the conversion of larger vessels to marine diesel and Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG).
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Key Facts
- Modernization: Multiple Island-class vessels utilize hybrid diesel-electric propulsion.
- High Capacity: The Spirit-class ferries offer the highest passenger capacity at 2,100 people.
- Unique Engineering: The Baynes Sound Connector is the only cable ferry in the fleet and operates the world's longest cable ferry route.
- Environmental Shifts: Spirit-class vessels have been converted to run on marine diesel and LNG.
- Diverse Operations: The fleet includes both official BC Ferries vessels and sponsored vessels operated by third parties.
Official Fleet Classifications
Island and Salish Classes
The Island-class ferries are primarily hybrid diesel-electric vessels built between 2017 and 2026. These ships, including the Island G̲wawis, Island Kwigwis, and the newest MV Island xwsaĺux̌ul, typically carry 47 vehicles and 300 passengers. The Salish-class vessels, such as the Salish Heron and Salish Eagle, provide a mid-range capacity of 138 vehicles and 600 passengers.
Coastal and Spirit Classes
For high-traffic corridors, BC Ferries employs the Coastal and Spirit classes. The Coastal-class vessels (Celebration, Inspiration, and Renaissance) were formerly the world's largest double-ended ferries, capable of carrying 310 vehicles and 1,604 passengers. The Spirit-class vessels, Spirit of Vancouver Island and Spirit of British Columbia, are the fleet's giants, accommodating 358 vehicles and 2,100 passengers.
Specialized and Legacy Vessels
The fleet also includes specialized ships like the Northern Expedition and Northern Adventure for northern routes, and legacy vessels such as the Queen-class ships. Notable mentions include the Pune'luxutth, renamed from Kuper in 2023 as part of a reconciliation initiative, and the Quadra Queen II, which is scheduled for retirement in March 2026.
Fleet Specifications Summary
| Class | Typical Auto Capacity | Typical Passenger Capacity | Notable Feature |
|---|---|---|---|
| Island | 47 | 300 | Hybrid diesel-electric |
| Salish | 138 | 600 | Mid-range capacity |
| Coastal | 310 | 1,604 | Double-ended design |
| Spirit | 358 | 2,100 | Marine diesel and LNG |
| Cable Ferry | 45 | 150 | World's longest cable route |
Unofficial and Sponsored Routes
Beyond the primary fleet, BC Ferries sponsors several routes operated by external partners. These include vessels operated by the Lax Kw'alaams First Nation (Nicola), Pacific Western Marine (Centurion VII and Spirit of Yalis), and Get West Adventure Cruises (Uchuck III). These partnerships ensure that even the most remote areas maintain essential maritime connectivity.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which ferries use hybrid propulsion?
The Island-class ferries, including the Island G̲wawis, Kwigwis, K'ulut'a, Nagalis, Aurora, Discovery, and MV Island xwsaĺux̌ul, utilize hybrid diesel-electric systems.
What is the largest passenger capacity in the fleet?
The Spirit-class vessels, Spirit of Vancouver Island and Spirit of British Columbia, have the highest capacity, each accommodating 2,100 passengers.
What makes the Baynes Sound Connector unique?
It is the only cable ferry owned by BC Ferries and it operates the longest cable ferry route in the world.
Which vessels have been converted to LNG?
The Spirit of Vancouver Island and Spirit of British Columbia were converted to use marine diesel and LNG between 2017 and 2019.
Are there any vessels scheduled for retirement?
Yes, the Quadra Queen II is scheduled to be retired in March 2026.