Spill response
I've been visiting Gabriola Island since March 2005 once or twice a year and wait in Nanaimo Harbour for the local ferry to Gabriola. In all that time, I have never seen this type of vessel in the Nanaimo Harbour. As we waited in the harbour for the ferry to depart, I noticed these ocean-going tugs were actually "Spill Response" vessels.
Had no idea why they were there until we sailed out of the harbour and into the Salish Sea on route to Gabriola Island. Have a look at the "Pacific Basin" image.
Spill response
I've been visiting Gabriola Island since March 2005 once or twice a year and wait in Nanaimo Harbour for the local ferry to Gabriola. In all that time, I have never seen this type of vessel in the Nanaimo Harbour. As we waited in the harbour for the ferry to depart, I noticed these ocean-going tugs were actually "Spill Response" vessels.
Had no idea why they were there until we sailed out of the harbour and into the Salish Sea on route to Gabriola Island. Have a look at the "Pacific Basin" image.