BC Ferries say they have extra sailings on the schedule despite being short at least one vessel during the holiday season. (File Photo/NanaimoNewsNOW)

By Alex Rawnsley

pack patience

‘We have all the capacity we need:’ extra trips planned for busy BC Ferries holiday rush

Dec 6, 2023 | 5:27 AM

NANAIMO — Reservations remain for ferry travellers this holiday season, however availability is running out.

BC Ferries is gearing up for the busy Christmas season which will see upwards of 911,000 passengers and 428,000 vehicles on board over the roughly week-long stretch around Christmas.

Company spokesperson Deborah Marshall said it’s all hands on deck once more.

“The busiest days of the holidays are expected to be Dec. 23, 26 and 27 and we have put on extra sailings, we’ve got lots of extra sailings between Tsawwassen and Swartz Bay, but we’ll also have extra sailings between Horseshoe Bay and Departure Bay.”

As of Wednesday, Dec. 6, reservations between Departure Bay and Horseshoe Bay in the days leading up to Christmas remained available for most sailings.

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Return trips after the holiday however were more limited, with only early morning or late night crossings available to book for Dec. 26 and 27 from Horseshoe Bay to Nanaimo.

Crewing and available vessels will dictate how smooth the holiday season is.

Marshall said they’ll be running four different ships on their busiest route, connecting Tsawwassen and Swartz Bay.

“The Coastal Renaissance will not be available, that ship is still undergoing repairs. However, what we will do is slot the Coastal Celebration in its place so that we have all the capacity we need over the holidays.”

She added a short circuit was detected during final testing on a repaired engine. An investigation is underway to find the cause and fix it.

The ship was initially expected to return for the holidays but there’s no firm timeline for its return to service.

Travellers are advised to arrive early for their desired or scheduled sailing.

Current condition information, along with online ticket booking, is available through the BC Ferries website.

— with files from Jon de Roo, 97.3 The Eagle

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