Vancouver Island Ferry Company will soon launch a new route & high-speed vessels (PHOTOS)

Get ready for even easier access to and from Vancouver Island this summer, because the Vancouver Island Ferry Company (VIFC) is launching new vessels and a highly-anticipated route between Nanaimo and downtown Vancouver.

The two new high-speed vessels are a part of Hullo, the service brand behind BC’s passenger-only catamarans. Now, the brand will launch two 354-passenger ferries that will offer guests a seamless 70-minute trip between the Nanaimo Port Authority (100 Port Drive) and Vancouver Harbour Flight Centre at Burrard Landing (1055 Canada Place).

Current construction

On Monday, April 19th, the VIFC announced the new service launch, revealing that construction and site reconfiguration are currently underway.

“The vessels are built and going through rigorous sea trials and the terminal areas are in the process of being upgraded to welcome our guests,” says Alastair Caddick, CEO of VIFC. “We have assembled a passionate and experienced team, recruiting impeccable individuals who will offer BC travellers an enjoyable, reliable, and efficient travel experience to and from the mainland.”

Construction includes over 400 parking stalls, EV charging stations, connected travel options, a guest welcome centre, and traffic and transit flow optimizations.

According to the release, the new Hullo vessels are undergoing final tests and sea trials in Vietnam at the Damen Group facility. And if all goes well, they’ll be ready to set sail to Vancouver Island next month!

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Service schedule & info

Once completed, Hullo’s new ferries will offer seven roundtrip sailings per day. The trips will start early enough for Island commuters to get to their downtown Vancouver offices, and will run late enough for them to catch a concert or game before heading home.

Guests will be able to reserve seats across three tiers: Comfort, Premium, and Business.

Note that complimentary Wi-Fi will be available for all guests, as well as a selection of treats.