Long lineups are expected for both vehicles and foot passengers on board BC Ferries trips this weekend. (File photo/NanaimoNewsNOW)

By Alex Rawnsley

from a to b

‘Important to plan ahead:’ busy weekend expected on board BC Ferries

Oct 9, 2025 | 5:26 AM

NANAIMO — Busy sailings and parking lots are expected this weekend across the BC Ferries network.

Upwards of 171,000 vehicles and around 436,000 passengers are typically welcomed on board during the Thanksgiving long weekend, representing the fifth busiest period of the year for the company.

Spokesperson Shiryn Sayani told NanaimoNewsNOW traffic flows will see Friday, Oct. 10 particularly busy on crossings from the Lower Mainland to Vancouver Island, with travellers advised to book ahead.

“We’re expecting similar volumes this year, and that’s why it’s so important to plan ahead. Look at those early morning, late evening sailings if they can travel during those off peak times, or even on those alternate less busy routes between Vancouver Island and the Mainland.”

Historically, a majority of traffic in and out of Nanaimo goes through Departure Bay terminal, with Sayani suggesting Duke Point as a potential alternative for some travellers.

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Foot passenger traffic is also expected to be very high this weekend, which creates other hassles for last minute trips.

“We strongly recommend booking in advance for this weekend and just thinking as well about things like parking. Parking lots often reach capacity during long weekends, so if travelers can take public transit or be dropped off at the terminal, then that will really help as well.”

Reservations still remained as of Thursday, Oct. 9 on some sailings in and out of Nanaimo, via both Departure Bay and Duke Point.

Travellers are also being advised of a pending change to service from Horseshoe Bay to Departure Bay.

All passengers travelling with a vehicle, including motorcycles, will be required to have a reservation beginning Oct. 15, due to terminal upgrades in West Vancouver.

No reservations are required for sailings leaving Departure Bay.

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