This is one of three new ferries recently acquired by
BC Ferries corporation. They were made in Poland, much
to the consternation of local business interests, and
they can run on either diesel or liquid natural gas.

The Salish Orca was on a trial run to see if it could
successfully dock at the Campbell River Terminal and at
Quathiaski Cove on Quadra Island. Both terminals remained
standing and the Salish Orca remained afloat, so it
appears the test was a success.

Unfortunately we won't be getting one of these deluxe
ferries on our little backwater route. After the test
the Salish Orca headed back south.

By the way, the "mouth" at the back of the ferry was
in the process of closing when this photo was taken.

Best viewed at original size.