BC Ferries reminds passengers “zero tolerance” for drinking on vessels

Summer inevitable entails plenty of places for drinking: parties, patios, festivals and more. But while ferrying through British Columbia’s waterways? Zero chance, say BC Ferries.

On Thursday, BC Ferries sent out a press release reminding customers of its zero tolerance policy: the consumption of drugs and alcohol on its vessels and at its terminals is prohibited and customers arriving at the terminals impaired will be reported to police.

Just because cars are on boats doesn’t mean that laws don’t apply. Operating a motor vehicle on BC Ferries’ ships or at its terminals while under the influence is just as illegal as doing so on the road.

Unfortunately, many people disregard the rules. In fact, police have had to deal with suspected impaired passengers 127 times in the past year.

“Drivers should realize that a ferry crossing is not a good excuse to either drink alcohol or
consume drugs, then get into their vehicles to drive. But if they make a poor choice, police will be on the other side to greet them,” said Constable Melissa Wutke, spokesperson for BC RCMP Traffic Services. “The RCMP will continue to work with BC Ferries to keep the public safe on our roads.”

Controversy in the comments

But the “zero tolerance” reminder didn’t go down quietly. A Chek News Poll asking if BC Ferries should be allowed to sell alcohol garnered hundreds of likes and comments on Facebook. As of writing, the poll results were 79% – 21% in favour of “No, alcohol does not belong on ferries”.

BC Ferries tweet of their announcement also ignited several arguments. A few of those comments can be seen below: