The sidelining of a ferry on the Swartz Bay-Tsawwassen route resulted in heavy demand Thursday for spots on the two vessels that remain. Sailings from both ends were full for the day by Thursday afternoon, and today’s 7 a.m. sailing from Swartz Bay was also full.
The Spirit of Vancouver Island is in drydock until Oct. 18 for ballast tank repairs, leaving only the Spirit of British Columbia and Coastal Inspiration on the Swartz Bay-Tsawwassen route.
Coastal Inspiration has a capacity of 1,604 passengers and crew, and 310 cars. Spirit of British Columbia, a sister ship to the Spirit of Vancouver Island, has a capacity of 2,100 passengers and 358 cars.
The two Spirit vessels are the biggest in the B.C. Ferries fleet.
Deborah Marshall, spokesperson for B.C. Ferries, said additional sailings are not possible, as a relief vessel is not available. She said customers are advised to make reservations while the Spirit of Vancouver Island is out of service.
“If customers don’t have a vehicle reservation, we suggest travelling as a foot passenger or travelling between Duke Point and Tsawwassen or Departure Bay and Horseshoe Bay.”
Full sailings are expected throughout the week, particularly on Friday and Sunday.
