BC Ferries has released a statement to prepare travelers for increased traffic during Thanksgiving long weekend
They’re expecting 380,000 passengers and 175,000 vehicles, and will be providing over 3,000 sailings between October 5th and October 10th.
Not only will vehicle space be extremely limited, but due to students traveling back and forth for the holiday, foot passenger wait times may occur at peak times as well.
Those planning on traveling on the major routes are strongly urged to make a reservation to secure a spot on their desired sailing.
The Coastal Renaissance remains out of service as repairs are being completed and no additional holiday weekend sailings will be added to the Horseshoe Bay to Departure Bay, Horseshoe Bay to Langdale, and the Tsawwassen to Swartz Bay sailings.
After the Thanksgiving holiday, it’s said that the Spirit of Vancouver Island ferry will be temporarily removed from service from the Tsawwassen to Swartz Bay route for necessary ballast tank repairs.
This will occur from October 10th to 18th.
A relief vessel is not available, so no additional sailings will be added during this time—customers are encouraged to book ahead for these sailings too.
BC Ferries has provided the following tips for travelers:
- Avoid sailing at peak times if your schedule is flexible.
- Make sure you arrive early—customers with a reservation should arrive 45-60 minutes before their sailing, and foot passengers should arrive at least 45 minutes prior to their sailing.
- If you don’t need your vehicle, consider parking it and boarding as a foot passenger instead.
BC Ferries has stated that they’ll be posting regular updates to their X account @BCFerries and the current conditions page.
