B.C. Ferries is standardizing the design of its rescue boats as it moves to reduce the number of classes of ferries in its fleet to improve efficiency.
“The rescue boats will become our new fleet standard and will predominantly be placed on new vessels as they enter our fleet,” Astrid Chang, manager of communications for B.C. Ferries.
Little information is available on the plans, such as number of boats, specifications, whether new launching equipment is needed, and the time period for purchases. Chang said comment is restricted because the competition bid process is underway.
B.C. Ferries issued a request for proposals on Wednesday, but only potential contractors are permitted to see it. The opportunity closes Nov. 25.
Requests for proposals are issued for contracts valued at more than $75,000, Chang said.
B.C. Ferries will “periodically go back out to tender to ensure we are competitive and have the latest equipment,” she said.
It is looking for a company to “provide their expertise to facilitate the sourcing and approval of new rescue boat model(s); and supply the newly approved boats as part of our fleet standard.”
