Electric Ferry Service Boosts Vancouver Water Transit

0:00A electric ferry service linking downtown Vancouver to Bowen Island and the Sunshine Coast is gaining traction, with the key report heading to the park. Board next week. The plan turns the public dock at Harbor Green Park into a commercial spot, adding a charge barge, viewing platform, and recreational mortgage. Battery powered boats from Victoria Bay Circle Ferrys would carry up to 150 passengers each, plus bikes and wheelchairs all. Emission free. Staff pick this as their top concept because it boosts regional links, cuts emissions, and revives the waterfront at no cost to the board. Circle covers all-build costs for the dock upgrades, floating charger, and infrastructure, dodging grid strain by charging offshore. The aging dock from 2003 has been pricey to fix after years of neglect and damage. Locals and leaders are on board, including Vancouver counselors, part board members, and towns like Gibson's in Bowen Island. It echoes a past taxi service that ran from 2010 to 2018, shuttling 60 to 80 fobs daily for about $12.

1:0650 cents one way, until dock safety issues shut it down. Supporters say it slashes commute times and eases road congestion. The board votes Monday, approval sends it to City Council for deal-making with Circle. They've consulted First Nations, and the city gives revenue cuts to cover extras like emergency response. Utilities like new transformers and trenching through the park are next if it moves forward. This could redefine water transit in Barard, Inlet, blending green tech with everyday access while the old dock gets a fresh start. Stay informed with Vancouver News today, AI-powered updates. I'm Corey with The Story.