BC Ferries has recently initiated a pilot for customers to connect with their second sailing out of Swartz Bay travelling by vehicle from Tsawwassen to the Southern Gulf Islands using a ‘thru fare’ travel option.
When arriving at Tsawwassen terminal, thru fare vehicle customers are provided with a mirror hanger that will allow terminal and vessel employees to load, unload and ticket them in the most expedient manner.
“BC Ferries addressed the feedback we had heard from thru fare customers who were anxious about transferring between sailings at Swartz Bay, and we developed procedures to help,” said Corrine Storey, BC Ferries’ vice president of customer services. “By establishing communication, staging and loading protocols, we were able to now provide a way to greatly increase the likelihood of making a desired sailing to any of the five Southern Gulf Islands at Swartz Bay.”
As well, a successful pilot project that allows foot passenger reservations for customers travelling on the Tsawwassen-Southern Gulf Islands route has been extended. For travel until March 31, 2017, walk-on passengers will now be able to guarantee boarding on a sailing in either direction of travel.
The passenger reservation pilot originally began May 1, 2015, offering customers an opportunity to reserve a walk-on space when travelling from Tsawwassen to Salt Spring, Galiano, Saturna, Pender or Mayne Islands. Earlier this year, the pilot was expanded to include travel from these islands back to Tsawwassen.
