COASTAL CELEBRATION RETURNING TO SERVICE

VICTORIA – BC Ferries announced today that pending successful completion of sea trials the Coastal Celebration is on track to be in service Friday, July 28.

The vessel entered dry dock space on Monday, July 24 to repair an ineffective blade seal. Upon inspection of the blade assembly, it was confirmed that the components were installed correctly and the root cause was a failure of the seal material itself.

All four blade seals are now in the process of being replaced. The four, two-tonne propeller blades are each connected to a 12-tonne propeller hub with 8 large bolts.

The shipyard, supported by marine engineers from both BC Ferries and the propulsion supplier, will work through the night to accomplish the work. The vessel is expected to be re-floated tomorrow night with sea trials conducted enroute to Swartz Bay.

BC Ferries advises customers that food services may be limited on the Coastal Celebration’s first day of service due to the limited turn around time to restore the vessel between its arrival at Swartz Bay and its first sailing of the day.

Customers with bookings on the Coastal Celebration on Friday are advised to arrive as planned. If there are any changes to the vessel’s scheduled return, Customer Care will contact them directly.

The Coastal Celebration performs eight sailings per day between Tsawwassen – Swartz Bay and will increase capacity for passengers and vehicles travelling between Vancouver and Victoria. The vessel carries 310 vehicles and 1604 passengers and crew.

For the most up-to-date travel tips and sailing and departure information, follow us on Twitter @BCFerries, check Current Conditions or visit bcferries.com for further information. Customers are encouraged to check for updates frequently.
  Media Contact:
BC Ferries, Media Relations
Victoria:  (250) 978-1267

Customer Contact:
Victoria: (250) 386-3431
Toll-free: 1-888-BCFERRY (1-888-223-3779)