Vard Marine is a leader in ferry designs in North America, with a portfolio ranging from a small open-deck harbour ferry to a fully-enclosed 470-vehicle vessel designed to carry a large tractor-trailer load and passenger vehicles.
We bring advanced technologies to our work – even if we have to invent them. In fact, we’ve pioneered the use of alternative fuels, battery technology and hybrid designs. Our hybrid propulsion systems coupled with noise reduction techniques place us at the forefront of efforts to reduce environmental impacts. Furthermore, our expertise in ice-capable vessels led to a dual-fuel ferry design for ice-infested waters.
We know it’s equally important to get things right on the inside. So whether you’re offering a first class dining experience or coffee and snacks, Vard Marine’s designs cover all the amenities appropriate to the level of service your passengers expect. Furthermore, as newer generations of vehicle traffic dictate design changes, we’ve adjusted to shifting passenger demographics with an increased focus on accessibility for all ages and levels of mobility.
We’ve designed vessels for the British Columbia Ferry Corporation, Seaspan Ferries, Société des Traversiers du Québec, Alaska Marine Highway Systems, and the State of Maine.
People needs? Technology challenges? First, show us your plan and then let Vard Marine find the answers.
Our ferry design philosophy
At Vard Marine, each design is the beginning of something new. We, therefore, partner with our clients to scope requirements based on their project’s unique set of tides, sea conditions, docking facilities, passengers and vehicle types.
In all our designs we call on our teams’ exceptional experience and expertise to deliver:
- efficient hull form
- low noise and vibration levels for passenger comfort
- efficient loading/unloading arrangements for rapid turnaround, and
- the ability to meet or exceed all safety requirements.
The client advantage
With our bespoke approach you’ll have a specialized vessel design tailored to your purpose – one that’s high on reliability, low on upkeep and unbeatable at maintaining service levels in all conditions.
How we work
Vard Marine works with both ferry companies and builders, providing a design-and-build package tailored to each client’s service requirements.
We offer a wide range of options to help our clients refine their requirements. Initially, we often start with feasibility studies and a cost/benefit analysis of each alternative. Next, we assess operating conditions along the route and research the terminal your vessel will connect with. Then, once requirements are finalized, the design process begins.
Throughout the design phase we consult with the shipyard on the most cost-effective way to address the owner’s needs.
We don't stop there
From time to time, ferries carry dangerous goods. We coordinate risk analyses for Class Societies, conduct HAZID and HAZOP workshops, and work with stakeholders to define solutions.
Ready to talk?
Contact the Vard team and make your next project your most successful one.
Phone: +1 604.216.3310
Email: info@vardmarineinc.com