Damen has recently secured a contract with the City of Toronto in Canada to build and deliver two all-electric ferries. These eco-friendly vessels are set to enhance sustainability efforts in the region by operating between the Jack Layton Ferry Terminal in downtown Toronto and the popular Toronto Islands, a key tourist spot near Lake Ontario.
The construction of the Toronto Ferries is taking place at Damen’s Galati yard in Romania, with a design developed by Quebec-based Concept Naval. The collaboration between Concept Naval, Damen, and the City of Toronto has been ongoing for the past two years to ensure that the vessels meet the specific requirements of the project.
Each of the ferries will be 50 meters long and 13 meters wide, with one ferry designated for transporting passengers and vehicles, and the other for passengers and bicycles. The decision to choose Damen for this project was based on their exceptional track record, as highlighted by a City of Toronto spokesperson who praised Damen’s experience, operational capabilities, engineering expertise, and competitive pricing.
Henk Grunstra, Damen’s product director for ferries, emphasized the significance of these new electric ferries in advancing reduced-emissions public transportation. He highlighted that fully electric vessels are an ideal solution for short routes like the one between Toronto and the Toronto Islands, especially with readily available charging infrastructure.
Eric Garant, the director general of Concept Naval, expressed confidence in the project’s ability to meet the needs of the City of Toronto and its residents. By combining the expertise of Concept Naval and Damen, the goal is to provide a sustainable and efficient maritime transport service that aligns with the latest technological advancements, ultimately contributing to a greener future for the Toronto community.
This project marks Damen’s 23rd and 24th ferry deliveries to Canada in the past decade, showcasing their continued commitment to providing innovative and environmentally friendly transportation solutions. The introduction of these all-electric ferries is a significant step towards promoting sustainable transit options and reducing emissions in Toronto, ultimately benefiting both residents and visitors to the city.