Travellers taking B.C. Ferries between Powell River and Comox this summer may see lower fares if they book sailings during less busy times.
B.C. Ferries said changes coming in June are intended to reduce congestion and make better use of sailing capacity during peak travel periods.
The ferry operator said the balance between drive-up traffic and reservations contributes to congestion as demand on the route increases.
“Travel demand on this route has grown significantly in recent years, particularly during peak periods when sailings fill quickly and terminals become congested,” said Brian Anderson, vice-president of strategy and planning at B.C. Ferries. “This route is an essential connection for many people travelling for work, medical appointments, family care and daily life and our goal is to reduce congestion and improve travel certainty while maintaining flexibility for the customers that rely on this route every day.”
On the busiest sailings, fewer spaces will be available for advance booking while more advance booking spaces will be offered on less busy sailings. More Saver fares will also be available to encourage travellers to choose quieter sailings.
“Drive-up space will continue to be available on every sailing. This approach is designed to better balance advance bookings and drive-up travel, reduce pressure at terminals and improve how available capacity is used throughout the day,” Anderson said. “There’s no one-size-fits-all approach across the ferry system and these changes reflect the specific operational pressures and travel patterns we’re seeing on this route.”
B.C. Ferries said there were nearly 5,000 sailings last year where customers were left behind because there was not enough space.
To help ease congestion, the ferry operator said it has increased staffing at both terminals and installed a new staging lane at Little River for drive-up traffic.
