Here’s why BC Ferries will require advance booking for all Horseshoe Bay to Nanaimo vehicles

Many people took to social media this week after BC Ferries announced that starting October 15th, all vehicles, including motorcycles and commercial traffic, will need a reservation to travel between Horseshoe Bay and Nanaimo’s Departure Bay.

To help address concerns and explain the reason for the change, BC Ferries says it is linked to a multi-year terminal upgrade at Horseshoe Bay.

The project will replace or repair berths, relocate the control tower, improve seismic safety and address aging infrastructure.

Construction will reduce vehicle holding space at the terminal by 25%, which the company says eliminates the ability to accommodate standby traffic.

Without bookings, BC Ferries says traffic could back up onto the highway, creating safety risks and operational delays.

Customers without a credit card can still make reservations in advance by paying cash at the Tsawwassen, Swartz Bay, Horseshoe Bay or Departure Bay terminals.

Drive-up customers will no longer be able to board without a booking. Those arriving without one will be directed to Horseshoe Bay Village to make a reservation online or by phone. Bookings can be made up to two hours before departure and can be changed up to one hour before sailing.

A portion of deck space on each sailing will remain available for emergency vehicles and passengers travelling under the medical assured loading program.

BC Ferries plans to introduce two new tools this fall on the Horseshoe Bay–Departure Bay route in both directions. Sailing space alerts will notify customers by email if space opens on a previously sold-out sailing.

A new waitlist feature will allow customers to join a queue for a full sailing and be notified if a spot becomes available.

The company says the policy will remain in place for the duration of the terminal upgrade project, which is expected to take several years.

This change is only one-way, from Horseshoe Bay to Nanaimo (Departure Bay). Foot passengers and cyclists can continue to sail with or without a booking.