VICTORIA – After the successful launch last year of its first electric passenger vessel, Victoria Harbour Ferry is adding two more of the silent, zero-emission vessels to its fleet on July 30.
The three all-electric passenger ferries will serve the company’s popular Gorge Cruise, making the scenic 60-minute tour of Victoria’s historic Gorge waterway 100 per cent zero-emission.
“We’ve been experiencing growing demand across our operations and decided to expand our fleet of electric vessels rather than bring more diesel boats into service,” said Nick Samsom, President of Victoria Harbour Ferry. “The move to electric boats makes economic sense for our company and it aligns with our commitment to keep the waterway clean and pristine.”
Samsom noted that the company has been an integral part of the Gorge waterway revitalization since day one, assisting in the clean-up by transporting volunteers and helping to remove debris.
“If we had continued with three new diesel vessels, as opposed to the three new all-electric vessels, we would have consumed approximately 8,000 liters of fuel during each season,” he added.
The zero-emission vessels usher in a new era of sustainability and passenger comfort. The vessels are propelled by a 3.5 horsepower electric engine that is powered by a bank of 16 batteries. They can travel at a speed of 5 nautical miles per hour and operate for up to 160 kilometres on a single charge – that’s enough to complete a full day’s operations on the water with power to spare. The vessels were purpose built for Victoria Harbour Ferry by Duffy Boats of California.
“Feedback from our customers has been fantastic. It’s the same fun ride in a sleek modern design. People love the fact that they are out enjoying nature without leaving a carbon footprint,” said Barry Hobbis, Vice President of Operations, noting that the electric vessels are the perfect viewing platform to observe the wildlife and take in the sights and sounds of Victoria’s bustling Gorge waterway.
The layout offers 360-degree panoramic viewing for 10 passengers, with full sun and wind protection. The ultra-quiet electric engine allows passengers to more clearly hear the strident rattle call of the Belted Kingfisher and approach a Blue Heron undisturbed.
Hobbis said the new vessels will be named Rose, to honour his late mother, and Wendy, named after the wife of one of the company’s owners. The first e-vessel was christened Tina, after the wife of another Habour Ferry owner.
Victoria Harbour Ferry offers the Gorge Cruise from March to October, with 15 departures daily between 10 a.m. and 9 p.m. during July and August. Advance reservations available. Tour departs approximately every 30 minutes.
