For Immediate Release
23-039
November 21, 2023

BC FERRIES INVESTS IN UPGRADES TO BOWEN ISLAND TERMINAL

VICTORIA – BC Ferries is investing approximately $3.7 million to refresh aging infrastructure at Snug Cove on Bowen Island, to maintain safe and reliable operations.

The terminal life extension project is anticipated to begin on January 8, 2024 and is expected to be completed by the end of March 2024. The project involves strengthening and replacing ramp components, restoring and replacing berth structures (such as wingwalls, dolphin chains etc.), and other crucial upgrades.

BC Ferries is making every effort to minimize disruption of service. Most work will occur at night to mitigate operational impacts, but the company is asking customers to plan ahead for their travel during this time.

During the three month construction phase, sailing schedules for Tuesday - Sunday will be amended with no change to Monday schedules. The modified schedules can be found online here: https://www.bcferries.com/routes-fares/schedules/seasonal/HSB-BOW?departureDateCode=R8_20240108_20240328

Full berth closures are scheduled on:

• Saturday, January 20
• Saturday, February 3 and Sunday, February 4
• Saturday, March 9

During sailing cancellations and closures, mitigation measures such as water taxis, shuttle bus service on Bowen Island and discounted/complimentary parking in Horseshoe Bay will be in place to ensure customers feel the least impact to their day-to-day schedules. Weekend days were selected for the full berth closures to minimize the impact on commuters, businesses and school children.

The Snug Cove terminal on Bowen Island is used extensively by daily commuters, school-aged children, residents, emergency services and tourists. It is comprised of one minor berth that services the route to Horseshoe Bay (Metro Vancouver), providing the island’s only point of access for vehicle traffic and commercial goods deliveries.

The current berth structure is approximately 38 years old and requires investment to ensure smooth continuity. Since construction of the ramp, apron and headframe structures in 1985, and the pontoon and wingwalls in 2000, Snug Cove’s Berth has experienced significant vehicle and foot traffic, about 15-16 trips per day; 5,666 trips annually.

Customers are advised to check sailing schedules and travel advisories before travelling, follow BC Ferries on X (formerly Twitter) and sign up for service notices to stay informed. Customer can also visit the Snug Cove project page for more information on the project: https://www.bcferriesprojects.ca/snug-cove-tp.