Construction, Site Preparation Underway For Service Expected To Start This Summer
Hullo’s two vessels for the Vancouver Island Ferry Company in Vietnam
NANAIMO – A groundbreaking ceremony was held today for the much anticipated Nanaimo to Vancouver high speed passenger only ferry service at the Port of Nanaimo.
Vancouver Island Ferry Company (VIFC) announced that the two new 354-passenger vessels are undergoing final tests and sea trials at the Damen Group facility in Vietnam, and will sail to Vancouver Island next month. Scheduled service for the 70-minute crossing is expected to start this summer.
Passengers will depart from the Nanaimo Port Authority at 100 Port Drive and the Vancouver Harbour Flight Centre downtown at Burrard Landing at 1055 Canada Place.
“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. Hullo is in ship-shape and almost ready to serve its communities,” says Alastair Caddick, CEO of VIFC. “We have assembled a passionate and experienced team, recruiting impeccable individuals who will offer BC travelers an enjoyable, reliable, and efficient travel experience to and from the mainland.
“After carefully listening to the needs and expectations of British Columbians, we are thrilled to provide a service that strengthens connections between friends and family on both sides of the Georgia Strait.”
Construction at the Port of Nanaimo will include over 400 parking stalls, Electric Vehicle charging stations, connected travel options, a guest welcome centre, and traffic and transit flow optimizations.
Wendy Williams has been named Director of Operations for the VIFC team, and is the first Canadian woman to captain a mega cruise ship for a leading brand.
“Our highly skilled operations team is dedicated to providing a seamless travel experience that is reliable, modern, and friendly,” says Captain Williams. “We take pride in trying to set a new standard for ferry travel in British Columbia and our growing team remains relentlessly committed to creating a safe, efficient, and reliable service for our communities.”
Hullo will offer daily crossing schedules starting with up to seven roundtrip sailings. Starting early enough for island commuters to get to their downtown Vancouver offices, and running late enough for travelers to catch an evening game or concert and return home the same night.
Guests will be able to reserve seats across three service tiers – Comfort, Premium, and Business, each catering to various guests needs, and Wi-Fi is complementary.
VIFC has secured long term partnerships with Snuneymuxw First Nation, the Port of Nanaimo and the Vancouver Harbour Flight Centre.
By Mark MacDonald
