Vancouver Island Ferry Company expects that next summer travellers will be able to catch a fast ferry between the Port of Nanaimo’s cruise ship terminal and the Vancouver Harbour Flight Centre in downtown Vancouver. Two high-speed catamaran vessels being built by the Netherland’s Damen Group will hold more than 350 passengers in three classes of seating, referred to as business, premium and comfort class. Sailing schedules are also yet to be determined, but sailings will be early enough for commuters and late enough to come home after sporting events or concerts. The Port of Nanaimo, Snuneymuxw First Nation and Conqora announced a long-term lease agreement a little over a year ago. The Nanaimo-based Vancouver Island Ferry Company has since been set up and its website, vifc.com, is now live.
