The smaller power requirements of a cable ferry mean BC Ferries can reduce fuel consumption, leading to a reduction in greenhouse gas emissions of approximately 50 per cent. With no propellers and twice the fuel efficiency as conventional ferries, a cable ferry is a very sustainable option for marine transportation. In addition, with no propellers it's an exceptionally quiet ship both above and below the waterline.

"The BAYNES SOUND CONNECTOR has met and exceeded our expectations," says Corrine Storey, BC Ferries' Vice President and Chief Operating Officer. "The ship has the ability to make more trips at peak times when demand is high and its on-time performance was 97.8 per cent last year. While cable ferry technology is over 100 years old, it's the perfect application to reduce our carbon footprint for this particular route."

At 1900 metres, the BAYNES SOUND CONNECTOR is the world's longest saltwater cable ferry crossing. The vessel has a maximum speed of over 8.5 knots and the capacity to carry 50 vehicles and 150 passengers and crew.

The cable ferry provides the same level of safe and reliable service that Denman and Hornby Island customers expect, while providing a more sustainable service and realizing substantial cost savings over the 40-year life of the vessel.

Reducing its environmental footprint through continued investment is a top priority for BC Ferries. Its Clean Technology Adoption Plan is leading the company in its efforts to bring sustainable and cleaner operations to the coastal ferry system.