BC Ferries adds more than 750 sailing above contract, helping to rebuild local economics

Collaboration with Ferry Advisory Committees results in return to pre-COVID-19 sailing levels

BC Ferries adds more than 750 sailing above contract, helping to rebuild local economics
Photo: BC Ferries

BC Ferries has announced that its ongoing engagement with Ferry Advisory Committees has resulted in the company adding 769 sailings above contract on its minor and northern routes, with the new schedule matching pre-COVID-19 service levels. These additional sailings will be in effect from September 8, 2020 through to March 31, 2021.

Keith Rush, Co-Chair of the Ferry Advisory Committees, says:

“Our communities are very supportive of these sailings above contract. Ferry Advisory Committees have advocated for years for increased service levels to ferry dependent communities. I applaud BC Ferries for their commitment to provide additional service through to the end of March 2021.”

Diana Mumford, Co-Chair of the Ferry Advisory Committees, says:

“Ferry service and sailings that meet community needs also help strengthen economic activity and recovery from COVID impacts. These extra sailings enhance the benefits to many coastal communities and also serve the interests of the general public.”

Traffic is currently about 20 per cent lower than this time last year across the ferry system, and is continuing to grow as more British Columbians are travelling closer to home.

Mark Collins, President and CEO of BC Ferries, says:

“With traffic returning and local communities in need of frequent and reliable service, we know the addition of 769 sailings above what our contract requires will be welcomed by residents and coastal communities alike.”

BC Ferries reminds all customers to continue to heed Dr. Bonnie Henry’s advice to be kind, be calm and be safe. Vessel and terminal staff are working hard to adjust to changing circumstances and to implement protocols and procedures that keep everyone safe and healthy.