Heading to the Sunshine Coast? BC Ferries now requires reservations

Aerial view of the Ferry traveling between the islands during a sunny summer evening. Sunset Sky Art Render. Taken in Sunshine Coast, BC, Canada.

People travelling between Vancouver and the Sunshine Coast will now need a reservation as BC Ferries grapples with a mechanical issue at the Langdale terminal that has reduced vehicle capacity.

The temporary measure will remain in place for at least the next week while repairs are underway at Berth 1, limiting loading to the main vehicle deck via Berth 2, BC Ferries said Monday.

The ferry service adds that some bookings through July 15 may need to be moved or cancelled, but that affected passengers will be automatically refunded.

“Our customer service team is reviewing existing bookings and making adjustments where necessary,” reads the BC Ferries statement. “As this work progresses, additional advance booking space may become available throughout the week.”

People are being encouraged to travel as foot passengers and use public transit, taxis or ride share services, as parking lots at the terminal are expected to reach capacity.

“We appreciate your patience and apologize for the inconvenience. Our terminal maintenance crews are working to restore Berth 1 to full operation as safely and quickly as possible,” BC Ferries said Monday, adding that updates will be provided as more information becomes available.

One traveller described the situation at the terminal as “chaos” in an email to CTV News, while another expressed concern for Sunshine Coast locals with jobs or medical appointments on the Lower Mainland.