BC Ferries has marked a major milestone in its fleet renewal program with the launch of its 10th and final Island Class vessel in this phase of shipbuilding.

The new ship, Island K’asa, was launched at Damen Shipyards in Romania and will now move into the final stages of outfitting and testing before entering service.

The vessel is expected to begin operating between Campbell River and Quadra Island in early 2027.

Island K’asa, meaning “otter,” was named by the Wei Wai Kum First Nation.

The otter is considered a guardian spirit, symbolizing the ability to move between worlds.

The launch represents a key step as BC Ferries works to modernize its aging fleet and improve service for coastal communities.

The Island Class vessels are designed to increase capacity and reduce environmental impact.

Across the routes they serve, they are expected to boost vehicle capacity by 71 percent and passenger capacity by 135 per cent compared to 2019 levels.

Once all vessels in this phase are in service, the Island Class will become the largest group of ships in the BC Ferries fleet, with 10 in operation.

The vessels also feature hybrid-electric propulsion systems and are designed to eventually run on electric power as shore-charging infrastructure becomes available.

BC Ferries says the upgrades will provide more space, improved comfort and more reliable service, while helping reduce emissions and support long-term sustainability goals.

The Island Class program is part of a broader plan that will see eight new vessels enter service between 2026 and 2031, as the company works to meet growing demand and replace aging ships.

For more information, visit BC Ferries.