For Immediate Release
24-13
May 15, 2024

GEARING UP FOR A RECORD-BREAKING SUMMER

VICTORIA – A record number of people and vehicles are expected on board BC Ferries vessels this summer, and with the busy travel season approaching, fleet and crew are preparing to get customers to their destinations safely, affordably and on time.

Between June 1 and September 5, 2024, 8 million passengers and 3.2 million vehicles are expected on board more than 56,000 sailings across 25 routes up and down the coast. This is an increase from the 7.8 million passengers and 3 million vehicles that travelled last summer.

“Whether we’re part of a customer’s daily commute, day-to-day travel needs or vacation plans, summer is the most popular time of year to travel on BC’s beautiful coast,” says Nicolas Jimenez, President & CEO of BC Ferries. “With all hands on deck, we’re readying our vessels and crew to help make this a safe, smooth and fun travel season.”

Starting June 1, 2024, BC Ferries will be removing the 4% fuel surcharge from all fares, increasing affordability for customers, and in order to ensure its entire fleet of 37 ferries is ready to set sail this summer, BC Ferries is completing scheduled regular maintenance and refits earlier than ever before. Nearly 350 additional sailings are being added during peak season along some of the busiest routes to meet the summer rush, including a third vessel serving the route between Tsawwassen and Duke Point, an additional early morning sailing between Swartz Bay and Tsawwassen and more scheduled sailings between Vancouver and the Sunshine Coast.

Hiring is almost complete for nearly 600 new staff in a variety of roles to help make happy travels for customers.

Here’s what else BC Ferries is doing to ensure smooth sailing this summer:

• More Saver fares are available than ever before for customers booking on major routes at off-peak times, with 500,000+ fares starting at just $39 for a standard vehicle and driver.
• Saver fares are also available for foot passengers, commercial traffic and over-height vehicles.
• Customers travelling on minor routes can now view live webcams, vessel trackers and the latest Service Notices in one convenient location by visiting bcferries.com/current-conditions or the BC Ferries app.
• More inclusive and accessible restroom facilities are now available at our terminals and on board vessels.
• Fun summer entertainment and activities are planned at our busiest terminals.
• Improved pet areas on several of our vessels are ready to welcome your pooch or feline friends.

Before you come on board

Historically, long weekends are the busiest time to travel over the summer, and the Victoria Day long weekend is the fourth-busiest weekend of the year. With a bit of planning and preparation, here are some steps customers can take to minimize delays:

• Book in advance so you can secure a spot on a sailing day and time of your choice.
• Take advantage of Saver fares and spend less on travel.
• Consider booking travel at off-peak hours, such as early morning or later in the evening.
• Consider using public transit and walking on board.
• Arrive early – customers with bookings should arrive 45 minutes before their sailing, and if you arrive without a booking, be prepared to wait.
• Stay up-to-date on your day of travel by checking bcferries.com/current-conditions and sign up to receive Service Notices about your route in your inbox.

Please see the summer readiness backgrounder for more about what we’re doing to serve you better this summer. We look forward to welcoming you on board this summer and connecting you with the people and places you love.