BC Ferries has issued its tips for long weekend travellers, and this year it includes a warning that “customers travelling without a booking on the Horseshoe Bay-Langdale and Horseshoe Bay-Departure Bay routes should expect multiple sailing waits.”
As a result, the ferry company said, “Booking in advance is strongly recommended to guarantee the sailing of your choice.”
The July 28 release from BC Ferries said the 9:25 p.m. and 11:30 p.m. sailings departing Horseshoe Bay, and the 6:20 a.m., 8:15 p.m. and 10:30 p.m. sailings from Langdale are expected to be the least busy on Route 3.
BC Ferries also said that much like previous summers, Thursday and Friday afternoon, as well as Saturday morning, are when most travellers are expected to be headed out of Horseshoe Bay to the Sunshine Coast, while Monday and Tuesday morning are the busiest times for return trips.
Other advice for travellers this long weekend includes a few points unique to the ongoing pandemic:
• Transport Canada COVID-19 screening is in effect, so it’s a good idea to arrive at least an hour before your sailing for both vehicle and foot passengers.
• Bring and wear a face covering at terminals, on board and/or if you choose to leave your vehicle.
• Remain in your vehicle if you’re driving on board, where possible.
• “Grab and go” limited hot food and items are available on some vessels and routes; take them back to your vehicle or to an outside deck as limited seating is available in the cafeteria.
• Maintain a physical distance of at least two metres from passengers and crew.
BC Ferries is also reminding people that it will not tolerate any abuse, including verbal abuse, towards its employees.
“A customer who abuses an employee will be denied service,” the company said. “The company takes this issue very seriously and reminds customers to continue to heed Dr. Bonnie Henry’s advice to be kind, be calm and be safe.”
Information on COVID precautions and schedule and traffic updates are available online at: www.bcferries.com
