BC Ferries expects a 'record-breaking summer' and travellers could see reduced ticket prices

If you're planning a BC Ferries trip from Vancouver to one of the Gulf Islands this summer, you may want to plan ahead for your trip.

BC Ferries expects a record-breaking summer, meaning ferry routes will be busier than usual.

The good news is that the ferry operator is adding extra sailings in preparation for its busiest season and reducing ticket prices for its customers.

In a press release, BC Ferries said starting on June 1, it will remove the 4% fuel surcharge from all fares to increase "affordability for customers."

The operator is also adding 350 sailings during peak season along some of its busiest routes to meet the summer rush.

"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," Nicolas Jimenez, President & CEO of BC Ferries, said in the release.

"With all hands on deck, we’re readying our vessels and crew to help make this a safe, smooth and fun travel season."

BC Ferries has also hired nearly 600 new staff in a variety of roles to help with the busy season ahead.

To ensure "smooth sailing this summer," BC Ferries says it has more "saver fares" available than ever before for customers booking trips on major routes at off-peak times. Many of these fares start at $39 for a standard vehicle and driver and there are options available for foot passengers as well.

The ferry operator also has live webcams on its minor routes so passengers can track vessels and get updates on the latest service notices on its website or the BC Ferries app.

If you're planning to travel on BC Ferries this summer, the operator is sharing the following tips:

• Book ahead of time to secure a spot on a sailing day and time of your choice.
• Check out the saver fares to save money on your trip.
• Consider travelling at off-peak hours, like during the early morning or later in the evening.
• If possible, use public transit and walk on board.
• Get to the terminal early. 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 signing up to receive Service Notices about your route in your inbox.

In a press release, BC Ferries shared that between June 1 and September 5, 2024, around 8 million passengers and 3.2 million vehicles are expected to travel on the ferries, which is an increase from 7.8 million passengers and 3 million vehicles last year.

This article's cover image was used for illustrative purposes only.