Williston Transporter
In 1994, John Harding obtained a contract from Canfor Mackenzie to build and operate an "ice-breaking, log-carrying ferry" for year-round operation on Williston Lake, BC. The Williston Transporter was built to ABS ice class rules and construction inspections were conducted by Transport Canada.
The 7400 hp, 360 foot long "Williston Transporter" went in to service in November 1995 and provided year-round marine transportation for the forestry and mining industries on the lake. At the time it went in to service, the Williston Transporter was the largest freight-carrying ice-breaker in the world.
The Williston Transporter could transport 5,500 tons of cargo and dramatically improved the economics of shipping raw materials to market.
Williston Transporter Construction
The frame and bulkhead modules were constructed in a shop in Prince George, BC and shipped to Mackenzie, BC by rail for welding to the hull plate.
Williston Transporter Hull Launch
