While BC Ferries is anticipating a record number of people and vehicles to board their vessels this summer, the company said they’re prepared.
With a busy travel season approaching, the fleet and crew are ensuring all necessary preparations are underway to get their customers to their destinations safely and on time.
They estimate that between June 1st and September 5th of this year, 8 million passengers and 3.2 million vehicles will board more than 56,000 sailings across 25 routes up and down the coast.
This is an increase from the previous year, marked at 7.8 million passengers and 3 million vehicles.
“Whether we’re part of a customer’s daily commute, day-to-day travel needs or vacation plans, summer is the most popular time of year to travel on BC’s beautiful coast,” said Nicolas Jimenez, President & CEO of BC Ferries.
“With all hands on deck, we’re readying our vessels and crew to help make this a safe, smooth and fun travel season.”
In anticipation for the season, BC Ferries have nearly completed their round of recent hiring, with nearly 600 new staff members joining the team.
They’ll be scheduling regular fleet maintenance and refits earlier than ever before, and nearly 350 sailings are being added along some of the busier routes to meet the summer rush.
This will include a third vessel on the Tsawwassen and Duke Point route, an additional early morning sailing between Swartz Bay and Tsawwassen and more sailings between Vancouver and the Sunshine Coast.
Plus, starting June 1st, BC Ferries will be removing the 4% fuel surcharge from all fares, making it more affordable for customers.
More ‘Saver’ fares than ever before will be available for customers booking on major routes at off-peak times, with 500,000+ fares starting at just $39 for a standard vehicle and driver—these fares are also available for foot passengers, commercial traffic and over-height vehicles.
Other updates include summer entertainment and activities planned at their busiest terminals and improved pet areas on a few of their vessels.
Earlier this week, the company revealed plans to expand access to menstrual supplies, introduce all-gender washrooms, and enhance signage across its fleet and terminals.
In addition, by the end of the year, over 300 single-use public and employee washrooms, both on ships and at shore facilities, will be converted to gender neutral bathrooms.
To give yourself the smoothest sailing possible, BC Ferries advises the following:
- Book in advance
- Take advantage of ‘Saver’ fares and travel during off-peak times
- Consider public transit and walk on board
- Arrive at your sailing early
- Check the BC Ferries website for updates and current conditions
Get out there, Victoria, and happy traveling!
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