Labour Day Weekend to Test BC Ferries Capacity
BC Ferries is bracing for one of its busiest weekends of the year as travellers prepare for the Labour Day long weekend. The company is urging passengers to expect delays, make reservations, and consider off-peak sailings to avoid heavy congestion.
Travel Numbers Continue to Climb
Last year, more than 90,000 vehicles and 270,000 passengers moved between Metro Vancouver, Vancouver Island, and the Sunshine Coast. Across all routes, over 200,000 vehicles and half a million passengers were carried. BC Ferries predicts this year will follow the same trend, if not exceed it.
Extra Sailings to Ease Pressure
To manage the surge, BC Ferries is adding sailings wherever possible. Officials expect 30% more vehicles and 50% more passengers compared to a regular weekend. With many Canadians choosing local travel over trips to the U.S., the company says demand has skyrocketed.
Summer Records Already Broken
“This has been one of our busiest summers on record,” said Ceilidh Marlow, senior communications advisor at BC Ferries. “We are on track to match or even surpass last summer’s record.” She noted that, despite an aging fleet, the season has been smooth with no major mechanical or staffing problems.
Tips for Avoiding the Rush
Marlow advised travellers to sail early mornings or mid-week, such as Tuesdays and Thursdays, to skip peak crowds. She added that Saver Fares continue to help flexible passengers save money when booking off-peak times.
Fall Season Brings a Slowdown
Although summer traffic has been overwhelming, BC Ferries expects numbers to ease into the fall. Official statistics are still pending, but the seasonal slowdown should provide much-needed relief after months of record-breaking demand.
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