BC Ferries is scrapping plans to expand its major vessel fleet by one ship, saying it’s the best way to stay financially responsible.
BC Ferries originally proposed building five new ships and extending the life of two older vessels. CEO Nicholas Jimenez says the corporation is still committed to building five new ships but amid rising global economic uncertainty, only one older vessel will be upgraded now.
In a statement, he says any option that doesn’t allow for new major vessels to be built as soon as possible means customers will be paying more for worsening service levels in the future as expected demand continues to grow.
The new plan is under review by the British Columbia Ferries Commissioner, with a final decision expected March 14.
Last year BC Ferries launched a global procurement plan which resulted in fixed-price bids from shipbuilders which the corporation says will provide greater cost certainty and reduce financial risk.
