Get Ready for a Busy Labour Day Long Weekend on BC Ferries
As the Labour Day long weekend approaches, BC Ferries is gearing up for a surge in travelers and potential delays. The ferry company advises passengers to make reservations in advance to avoid any inconvenience at the terminals.
Reflecting on the previous year’s statistics, BC Ferries highlights the immense traffic they experienced during the same period. Ceilidh Marlow, senior communications advisor at BC Ferries, notes that last year witnessed over 90,000 vehicles and 270,000 passengers on the major routes connecting Metro Vancouver, Vancouver Island, and the Sunshine Coast. Across all routes and vessels, the numbers soared to more than 200,000 vehicles and 500,000 passengers. Anticipating a similar turnout this year, Marlow emphasizes the need for early planning.
To accommodate the expected increase in travelers, BC Ferries is working on adding extra sailings wherever feasible. Marlow encourages those planning to travel over the weekend to check the schedule for availability. During holiday weekends like Labour Day, the ferry service usually experiences a 30% rise in vehicle traffic and a 50% surge in passenger numbers compared to regular weekends.
With more Canadians opting for domestic travel over international trips, BC Ferries has been operating at higher capacities than usual. Despite the challenges posed by the increased demand, including last summer’s record-breaking traffic, the ferry service has managed operations efficiently. Marlow assures that despite the aging fleet of boats, BC Ferries has maintained smooth sailing throughout the summer without any major mechanical or staffing issues.
For travelers seeking to avoid crowds and potential delays, Marlow suggests considering early morning travel on weekends or choosing Tuesdays and Thursdays for smoother journeys. Emphasizing the availability of space throughout the summer, especially during off-peak times, she mentions the benefits of utilizing the Saver Fares for cost-effective travel options.
As the peak season persists, BC Ferries remains vigilant, expecting a moderation in ferry traffic with the onset of fall while awaiting updated statistics to gauge the ongoing trends.