The Island Xwsaĺux̌ul is now in service on the Gabriola-Nanaimo route, paving the way for electric operations once shore charging infrastructure is in place.
The naming of this ship represents a significant moment in BC Ferries’ relationship with the local Snuneymuxw First Nation. It is the first ship to proudly bear a Snuneymuxw name. From the BCF website:
The name xwsaĺux̌ul (xwus-saw-la-kwahl), meaning “the grassy place,” was gifted by the Snuneymuxw First Nation in the Hul’q’umi’num’ language and carries deep cultural and historical significance. These sacred grounds are connected to Snuneymuxw origin stories and hold an enduring relationship to the Nation’s lands, waters, and identity. The Snuneymuxw Sarlequun Treaty of 1854 was signed at xwsaĺux̌ul, further anchoring its importance within Snuneymuxw history.
For a detailed guide to the meaning and pronunciation of the gifted name Xwsaĺux̌ul and the name of her sister ship Island Sarlequun which will also be coming to our route, please check out the video below from yutustana:t (Gena Seward-Wilson), Hul’q’umi’num’ language instructor for SD68. We hope everyone will take a few minutes to learn how to pronounce the names of these 2 new ferries as a gesture of respect for the local First Nations on whose traditional territories and waters we live and travel.