Vessel takes over from Nimpkish on May 18, begins direct route on June 3
BC Ferries confirmed yesterday the Northern Sea Wolf begins service on the Central Coast route on May 18 after successfully completing its sea trials and dock fits during April and May. The seasonal direct service between Port Hardy and Bella Coola starts on June 3. The Northern Sea Wolf provides a remarkable coastal travel experience and is expected to serve local residents and encourage tourist travel to and from the Central Coast.
On May 3, the Northern Sea Wolf left BC Ferries’ refit facility in Richmond and headed north to conduct dock trials at the ports it will serve (Port Hardy, Bella Bella, Bella Coola, Shearwater and Ocean Falls). As the ship conducted dock trials in Bella Bella, Shearwater and Ocean Falls, BC Ferries welcomed local residents on board to check out the new vessel that will provide year-round service to their communities.
In conjunction with the official start of the 2019 seasonal direct service between Port Hardy and Bella Coola, BC Ferries is hosting public open houses from 2 to 4 p.m. at the terminal in Bella Coola on June 2 and 7 to 9 p.m. at Bear Cove terminal in Port Hardy on June 3 to showcase the vessel to the communities. Everyone is invited.
BC Ferries upgraded the Northern Sea Wolf and the ship is now completely modernized with a new galley, bridge, electrical generators, HVAC system, washrooms, elevator, chair lifts, new cafeteria and passenger accommodation area. In many aspects the vessel is totally new. Partial funding for the Northern Sea Wolf project was provided by the federal government through the Provincial-Territorial Infrastructure Component – National and Regional Projects.
In late 2018, BC Ferries and the First Peoples’ Cultural Council revealed the Indigenous art designs for the Northern Sea Wolf. Kwakiutl First Nation’s Richard Hunt and Nuxalk Nation’s Danika Naccarella designed the artwork that adorns the vessel. The artwork is displayed on the interior and exterior of the Northern Sea Wolf for customers to view, along with profiles of the artists.
BC Ferries and community stakeholders named the Northern Sea Wolf in honour of a First Nations legend in which the Sea Wolf is a manifestation of the Orca. The designs depict the beauty of the majestic animal, with The Sea Wolf the symbol of family, loyalty and the protector of those travelling their waters.
BC Ferries looks forward to offering customers a breathtaking journey into the heart of the Great Bear Rainforest on a vessel that will provide safe and reliable service for many years to come. Discover the majestic Central Coast with convenience and ease, by booking a multi-night tour with BC Ferries Vacations™. Marvel at the grizzlies as they fish in the Atnarko and Bella Coola River, or hike to one of many alpine lakes for views of rugged landscapes and spectacular lookouts. Self-drive packages include hotel, ferry, and an unforgettable eco-rafting or grizzly bear tour. Visit bcferries.com/vacations for more information.
Source: BC Ferries