Vessel repairs means particularly busy long weekend on BC Ferries
Posted June 28, 2018 10:00 am.
Last Updated June 28, 2018 10:24 am.
This article is more than 5 years old.
VANCOUVER (NEWS 1130) – The Canada Day long weekend is upon us, and that means ferries will be packed. This weekend, there is an extra problem adding to the challenges that come with holiday crowds.
The Coastal Inspiration was supposed to be back in service last weekend, but Deborah Marshall with BC Ferries says repairs to a propeller hub are taking longer than predicted.
The vessel usually goes between Horseshoe Bay and Departure Bay in Nanaimo. Marshall says that route is expected to be very busy over the weekend, particularly leaving the mainland.
“We are advising customers, if they are travelling without a vehicle reservation on that route, to avoid travelling via Horseshoe Bay on Thursday and Friday of this week.”
The Coastal Inspiration is now expected to be back on the water on Monday.
“We are on our full summer schedule now,” adds Marsahll. “On the Tsawwassen – Swartz Bay route, for example, we’ve got four vessels in place. Some days, we’ve got 6 a.m. sailings and late-night sailings. So, that’s a good option for customers.”
She also recommends travelling as a foot passenger, if possible.
– With files from Mike Lloyd
