The Burrard Chinook SeaBus celebrates four years afloat
Funding provided through the Public Transit Infrastructure Fund
Picture this: a sunny July morning in 2021, the Burrard Chinook SeaBus makes its grand debut, gliding gracefully across Vancouver's Burrard Inlet. Vancouver Fire Rescue Services gave it a celebratory water salute, and the crowd was filled with excitement. Since then, the vessel has served as a model for public transit in Canada. It is the country's first fully hybrid electric SeaBus, combining Indigenous art, environmental design, and smart public investment.
The Burrard Chinook is both a ferry and a floating work of art, a visual story set against the backdrop of the Pacific Northwest. Wrapped in stunning artwork created by local Indigenous artists Kelly Cannell, Siobhan Joseph, and Angela George, the vessel's name and art tells the story of the Chinook salmon. The Chinook salmon is an integral species to the regions ecosystem and a cultural symbol for the xʷməθkʷəyə̓m (Musqueam Indian Band), Sḵwxw̱ ú7mesh Úxwumixw (Squamish Nation), and sə̓lílwətaʔɬ (Tsleil-Waututh Nation). The SeaBus operates on the shared, unceded territories of these three Nations, thus prompting reflection on the ecological and cultural heritage of the region with every crossing.
The Burrard Chinook SeaBus setting sail across the Burrard Inlet in North Vancouver, British Columbia.
A vision for sustainable transit
Beyond its striking design, the Burrard Chinook is a workhorse for Metro Vancouver's transit system. With a maximum passenger capacity of 400, it has strengthened SeaBus service by providing reliable crossings every 10 to 15 minutes during peak hours. This consistency has made commuting smoother for thousands of passengers, reducing delays and improving overall transit flexibility. In fact, the SeaBus serves a diverse mix of students, workers, visitors, and residents who rely on this vital link between the North Shore and Metro Vancouver every day.
For TransLink CEO Kevin Quinn, the Burrard Chinook embodies the future of public transit:
“The SeaBus is an iconic part of Metro Vancouver's transit system, providing a vital service that bridges the gap across the Burrard Inlet and connects the communities of our region. TransLink proudly worked alongside members of the Musqueam, Squamish, and Tsleil-Waututh Nations to adorn the new Burrard Chinook SeaBus with artwork that honours local Indigenous history and culture. We look forward to future collaborations with First Nations as we continue our journey toward true and meaningful reconciliation.”
Since its launch, the Burrard Chinook has done more than improve transit service – it has deepened the connection between people, place, and culture. Its success serves as a blueprint for future infrastructure projects across Canada, proving that sustainability, inclusivity, and local heritage can and should be central to urban development.
Passengers are pictured on board of the SeaBus in North Vancouver, British Columbia.
As we look to the future, the Burrard Chinook is a shining example of how to integrate art, culture, and sustainability into public infrastructure. With its sails set firmly towards progress, this extraordinary vessel will continue to inspire for years to come. Here's to the Burrard Chinook and many more years of smooth sailing!
Quick facts
- In the last year alone, the Burrard Chinook completed over 15,000 crossings, equivalent to traveling once around the world!
- In 2023, SeaBus ridership reached 5.1 million boardings — a strong increase from the previous year, reflecting growing demand for the service.
- SeaBus riders can purchase monthly passes ranging from $107.30 - $193.80 and daily fares ranging from $2.15 - $6.35 depending on fare zones.
- The SeaBus is double-ended, allowing the captain to switch stations instead of turning around when leaving the dock.
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