MV Island Gwawis Brings New Service to B.C. Ferries

The MV Island Gwawis is a new addition to B.C. Ferries, bringing a fresh service to the region.

It has a capacity of 382 passengers and 144 vehicles, making it a reliable option for those traveling with a group or multiple vehicles.

The vessel is designed to provide a smooth and comfortable ride, with amenities such as washrooms and a snack bar on board.

This new service aims to meet the growing demand for transportation in the area, offering a convenient and efficient way to travel.

The MV Island Gwawis is a vital part of the transportation network between Gabriola Island and Nanaimo. It offers regular ferry service between these two destinations.

The Island Gwawis is named "Raven of the Sea" in Kwakwaka'wakw, a name chosen with input and support from the 'Na̲mg̲is First Nation. This name reflects the connection between the ferry and the local community.

Over 1,000 drills will be conducted this year to ensure the highest safety standards for BC Ferries' vessels and crews.

The Island Gwawis, also known as the Raven of the Sea ferry, is a significant addition to the BC Ferries fleet.

Named with the support of the 'Namgis First Nation, the ship's name holds deep meaning and cultural significance.

The ferry is part of the Island-class vessels, which can carry up to 450 passengers and crew, as well as 47 vehicles.

It's equipped with batteries, making it capable of full electric operation in the future once shore charging infrastructure and funding become available.

This innovative design is a step towards making BC Ferries one of the most sustainable companies in the world.

The Island Gwawis is part of a two-ship service between Nanaimo and Gabriola Island, with the other ferry, Island Kwigwis, meaning 'eagle of the sea', already serving the route.

The Island Gwawis is the last in the series of Island Class vessels to enter the fleet and will allow for the Nanaimo Harbour – Gabriola Island route to be serviced by two Island Class vessels.

This ship celebrates the cultural connection between the original mariners of the coastal waters and the communities the vessel will soon serve. Gwawis means "raven of the sea" and was selected with input and support from the 'Na̲mg̲is First Nation.

The Island Gwawis is a hybrid-electric ferry, designed for future full electric operation. It is fitted with hybrid technology that bridges the gap until shore charging infrastructure and funding becomes available in B.C.

The ferry has the capacity to carry 47 vehicles and up to 450 passengers and crew.

Island Gwawis is the sixth Island Class ferry to enter the B.C. Ferries fleet, and it will allow for the Nanaimo Harbour – Gabriola Island route to be serviced by two Island Class vessels.

The ferry has a capacity to carry 47 vehicles and up to 450 passengers and crew.

The name Island Gwawis was selected with input and support from the 'Na̲mg̲is First Nation, and it celebrates the cultural connection between the original mariners of the coastal waters and the communities the vessel will soon serve.

Gwawis means "raven of the sea" in the language of the 'Na̲mg̲is First Nation.

BC Ferries looks forward to welcoming Island Gwawis into service later this year.

Island Class ferries are designed for future full electric operation and are fitted with hybrid technology that bridges the gap until shore charging infrastructure and funding becomes available in B.C.