And if your port of choice is the Horseshoe Bay Terminal– or if you live or work nearby– then this will be doubly important to be aware of.

RENEWING AND RESTRUCTURING

BC Ferries’ Horseshoe Bay terminal will be undergoing “critical infrastructure renewal” while “minimizing disruptions for customers and surrounding communities.” Planning and procurement is currently underway as preparations are being made for the project to begin.

The company noted that the terminal desperately needed change. It was the Easter long weekend that made Horseshoe Bay’s limitations clear. The sheer demand and high traffic placed immense pressure on everyone within the vicinity. It was obvious: travellers had a negative experience, and everyone else who had to be around the terminal were equally unhappy.

This project is seeking to “improve safety, efficiency, and reliability” in BC Ferries’ terminals.

WHAT TO EXPECT

Any actual construction won’t be starting until Fall of 2025, but things have to be done before the Autumn season so passengers can sail smoothly during Summer. So, if you’re planning on boarding with BC Ferries this sunny Summer, you should know that the company will be implementing a number of “customer-focused” changes.

• Select sailings on the Queen of Capilano between Horseshoe Bay and Bowen Island will have increased passenger capacity. The ships will be able to carry up to 600 passengers and crew members, an increase of around 150 people. This change is slated to begin mid-May.
• All vehicles must be pre-booked when travelling from Horseshoe Bay to Departure Bay, beginning this Fall. Drive-up fare options will no longer be available.
• The addition of a new 4:30pm direct sailing from Tswwassen to Departure Bay every evening, beginning June 19.

During construction, travellers can expect terminal space for vehicles to be reduced by 25%. Overall vehicle space is also expected to “remain below current levels for several years” while construction continues.

Hopefully, these upcoming changes will address BC Ferries’ infrastructure troubles. In the meantime, get ready for another busy summer with BC Ferries and their soon-to-come construction in the Fall.

Source: 604NOW