This summer, a record number of travelers and vehicles are expected to use BC Ferries vessels, the organization announced May 15.
Roughly 8 million people and 3.2 million vehicles are expected to travel on BC Ferries vessels between June 1 and Sept. 5, up from 7.8 million passengers and 3 million vehicles last summer.
To make it more affordable for customers, the organization has omitted a 4% fuel surcharge from all fares beginning June 1. BC Ferries is also wrapping up regularly scheduled maintenance repairs and refits earlier to make sure its 37-ferry fleet is ready for the influx of customers.
The agency is adding almost 350 more sailings during peak season on some of the busiest routes, as well as the addition of a third vessel that would operate the Tsawwassen-Duke Point route and another early morning sailing between Swartz Bay and Tsawwassen.
There are also plans to add more scheduled sailings to and from Vancouver and the Sunshine Coast.
BC Ferries has also said that it’s nearly done hiring almost 600 new staff members for various roles.
“Whether we’re part of a customer’s daily commute, day-to-day travel needs or vacation plans, summer is the most popular time of year to travel on BC’s beautiful coast,” BC Ferries President and CEO Nicolas Jimenez said. “With all hands on deck, we’re readying our vessels and crew to help make this a safe, smooth and fun travel season.”
