BC Ferries Dolphin Pontoons Built by PMC

As BC Ferries advances its terminal upgrades across the Discovery Islands, Pacific Marine Construction (PMC) was contracted to fabricate and deliver two new dolphin pontoons for the Heriot Bay and Whaletown terminals.

These structures form a critical part of BC Ferries’ long-term plan to accommodate higher-capacity Island Class vessels and ensure safer, more efficient access for passengers traveling between Quadra Island and Cortes Island.

Built at our Campbell River facilities and delivered in early 2025, the pontoons were engineered to meet stringent design, durability, and fit-up requirements provided by the BC Ferries engineering team.

Why the Heriot Bay and Whaletown Terminals Required New Dolphin Pontoons

The existing marine infrastructure at both terminals is approaching end-of-life, and with growing year-round populations on Quadra and Cortes Islands, BC Ferries is preparing these routes for increased ferry traffic, improved docking safety, and more streamlined passenger movement.

The new dolphin pontoons enable BC Ferries to support the maneuvering requirements of Island Class vessels. These are larger, more efficient ships designed to reduce congestion and improve reliability across the region’s inter-island connections.

PMC’s mandate was to fabricate two fully engineered concrete pontoons, complete with inset pile interfaces, fendering integration, mooring hardware, and all embedded steel required for long-term terminal operations.

How PMC Fabricated and Delivered the New Dolphin Pontoons

Each pontoon was constructed at PMC’s Campbell River sites using reinforced marine-grade concrete and precision-cut steel embeds. Our fabrication process emphasized:

Strict dimensional accuracy
Long-term resistance to wave loading and vessel impact
Compatibility with existing and future terminal components
Integration with BC Ferries’ marine fendering systems

Following completion and quality testing, the pontoons were launched, secured for transport, and towed to their respective terminals for on-site handover.

Engineering Specifications for Each Dolphin Pontoon

Each pontoon features the following engineered components:

114’9” × 26’2” × 10’8” reinforced concrete pontoon
2,996 sq. ft engineered concrete deck surface
6” reinforced concrete bottom
Two inset pile retainers for controlled vessel interface
Four 30T galvanized bollards for mooring
All required steel embeds and bolt-on components
Integration and installation of BC Ferries’ marine fendering

These elements were designed to ensure stability, resilience, and long-term performance in the dynamic marine conditions at both Heriot Bay and Whaletown.

New Dolphin Pontoons Are Strengthening Island Connections

The Heriot Bay and Whaletown terminals are essential transportation corridors for residents, businesses, and visitors across the Discovery Islands. By delivering two new dolphin pontoons engineered specifically for BC Ferries’ upcoming vessel class, PMC helped strengthen the foundation for safer and efficient coastal transportation.

These pontoons mark another example of our ability to design, fabricate, and deliver complex marine infrastructure across British Columbia’s rugged coastline.

If you’re looking for a marine contractor who builds locally, engineers for long service life, and delivers in collaboration with regional partners, get in touch.