BC Ferries’ new Salish Orca vessel departs Poland for B.C.

The first of three new Salish Class vessels is on its way from Poland to B.C.

BC Ferries’ newest vessel, the Salish Orca, departed Gdansk on Tuesday.

The 17,000 kilometre journey will take approximately 45 to 55 days, depending on weather.

The ship will stop for fuel in Santa Cruz, Canary Islands and Panama City. 

BC Ferries' first natural gas powered ferry is expected to arrive in January.

The ship is scheduled to start service on the Comox to Powell River route next spring.

“We look forward to introducing a new ship into service for our passengers on the Northern Sunshine Coast, which will improve reliability and customer service for years to come,” said Mike Corrigan, BC Ferries’ president and CEO.

The new ferry features the artwork of Coast Salish artist, Darlene Gait.

You can track the ship’s voyage here.