Fast ferries arrive in Nanaimo ahead of Hullo launch next month
Posted July 15, 2023 11:19 am.
Last Updated July 15, 2023 11:21 am.
Travel between Metro Vancouver and Vancouver Island is speeding up, as two “fast ferries” officially arrived in Nanaimo Friday.
The new ferry service, Hullo, says its two fast catamaran vessels docked at the Nanaimo Port Authority after being assembled in Vietnam.
The service estimates travel time between downtown Vancouver and downtown Nanaimo will be about 70 minutes — almost 30 minutes faster than a BC Ferries services from Horseshoe Bay.
In a statement Friday, Hullo, owned by the Vancouver Island Ferry Company, says its crews are working “diligently over the next couple of weeks” to prepare the vessels for their first voyage early next month.
Related Article: ‘Fast-ferry’ between Vancouver and Nanaimo launching in August
In June, the company released its pricing schedule.
The service will offer pricing in tiers called “Comfort, Premium, and Business.” In a statement Thursday, Hullo says first-trip fares will start at $29.99, raising to $39.99. Premium seats are $49.99, with Business coming in at $59.99.
Ferry travel will start with one leaving from Nanaimo at 6 a.m., and finishing with one leaving from Vancouver at 9:30 p.m. daily. However, Hullo says it will add late-night sailings after major concerts and sports events to ensure people get back to Vancouver Island from the mainland.
Hullo adds, although there aren’t going to be any vehicles on the ferry, it will have enough room for bicycles and pets. However, due to safety regulations, e-bikes or electric scooters will not be able to sail with the service.
