Hullo Ferries expands onboard menu through a unique community partnership
With a critical mass of riders regularly using its services, Hullo Ferries is now expanding its onboard food and beverage options — and in a unique way.
The company operating a high-speed passenger ferry service between downtown Vancouver and Nanaimo announced today that it has partnered with Coco Cafe, a Nanaimo-based social enterprise and charitable organization that provides career training, employment, and socialization opportunities to people with developmental disabilities.
CoCo Cafe will bring a range of crafted menu items to Hullo Ferries’ onboard food program to enhance the travel experience for passengers while supporting a meaningful cause.
- You might also like:
- Hullo Ferries marks second anniversary with 40% ridership growth, high reliability
- Hullo Ferries seeks new leadership to steer next phase of expansion
- Hullo Ferries now permits bikes on board its vessels
- 91% of Hullo Ferries' workers vote in favour of strike
“We are over the moon to partner with an organization that shares our values of community, inclusion, and local collaboration,” said Ryan Dermody, CEO of Hullo Ferries.
“When we looked for a partner, we wanted an organization that makes a tangible difference on the Island. Coco Cafe is the perfect example. They’re a social enterprise dedicated to creating jobs and opportunities for people who face barriers to employment. Choosing them means food sold on our ferries is a direct investment back into the Nanaimo community, supporting skills development, fostering independence, and championing a more inclusive local economy. It’s a model we’re incredibly proud to get behind.”
View this post on Instagram
From CoCo Cafe, expect onboard baked goods such as loafs, muffins, scones, and cookies, as well as a variety of sandwiches, including a carved ham and harvarti sandwich, chicken apple and brie croissant sandwich, and a roasted pepper and mozzarella vegetarian sandwich.
Prior to this partnership, the onboard cafe on the upper level of the vessels already provided a selection of light snacks and hot and cold drinks. Business class passengers are provided with a complimentary snack and beverage, while other passengers can purchase items. As well, Hullo Ferries’ Nanaimo terminal features a permanent food truck to provide passengers with the ability to buy food and drinks before or after their sailing.
Comfort (economy) class seats on Hullo Ferries. (Kenneth Chan/Daily Hive)
CoCo Cafe was founded by families looking to create opportunities for their adult children transitioning out of the school system.
“We’re absolutely delighted to partner with Hullo Ferries,” said Marc Taschereau, Executive Director of Coco Cafe.
“This partnership gives us an incredible opportunity to share our mission and our menu with even more people traveling between Vancouver Island and the mainland. It’s a wonderful example of how community-focused organizations can come together to make a positive impact while celebrating local talent and inclusion.”
In September 2025, Hullo Ferries reached a major milestone, having recorded one million passengers since the launch of the service just over two years prior.