BC Ferries will hold vessels in dock early Friday, Dec. 22 as a result of "adverse weather conditions." (File Photo/NanaimoNewsNOW)

By NanaimoNewsNOW Staff

travel hiccups

‘Adverse weather’ cancels multiple round trips between Nanaimo & Lower Mainland

Dec 22, 2022 | 8:08 PM

NANAIMO — The expectation of a strong winter wind storm and the current reality of frigid temperatures is impacting ferry operations right before Christmas.

BC Ferries took the pre-emptive action late Thursday night of cancelling early morning service between Nanaimo and the Lower Mainland for Friday, Dec. 23.

Three trips, 6:15 a.m., 7:25 a.m. and 8:25 a.m. from Departure Bay to Horseshoe Bay, as well as their corresponding sailings the other way, have been removed from the schedule.

A pair of sailings leaving Duke Point at 5:15 a.m. and 7:45 a.m. were also nixed, along with trips leaving Tsawwassen at the same times.

The company pointed to “adverse weather conditions” but did not specific whether the forecasted winds or freezing temperatures were to blame.

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Also cancelled, as a result of forecasted road and terminal conditions, the 7:05 a.m. and 8:10 a.m. trips from Gabriola Island, as well as the 7:35 a.m. and 8:45 a.m. sailings from Nanaimo Harbour are also cancelled.

As of publishing, all other sailings were scheduled to go as normal.

Vessels around the mid-Island have had issues through much of the week with frozen lines on either the main ships, or their rescue craft, which resulted in several delays or outright cancellations.

A winter storm warning is in effect for the region, with wind gusts expected to reach upwards of 60 kilometres per hour beginning Thursday night.

Customers with reservations for the affected sailings will be contacted by BC Ferries customer service teams to re-book them on other sailings.

If travellers cancel their trip, refunds will be issued.

Those heading out for the holidays are advised to check the latest conditions for their route, by visiting the BC Ferries website.

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