BC Ferries is advising customers to avoid non-essential travel over the holiday period, in keeping with direction provided by the Province of British Columbia.
According to a media release, BC Ferries continues to transport commercial traffic, delivering essential goods and services to coastal communities. Commercial traffic, in fact, is as strong or stronger across all routes than for this same period last year, the release stated.
For customers who need to travel for essential reasons, BC Ferries offers the following advice to support safe travel this holiday season:
· Plan in advance. Priority will be to keep essential goods, groceries, holiday letters and packages moving.
· Book in advance. This guarantees passengers travel on the sailing of their choice. BC Ferries recently launched a new mobile-friendly website that makes it easier for customers to book and manage their bookings online. For full schedule information, current conditions and bookings, go to bcferries.com.
· Wear a face covering. For the health and safety of other passengers and crew, BC Ferries requires all customers to wear non-medical masks or face coverings at terminals and while onboard ferries. Some exceptions are listed on bcferries.comand customers who cannot wear a mask due to a medical condition may be asked to provide a medical certificate. Travellers without a face covering who do not meet the exceptions may be refused travel.
· Maintain physical distancing on board. BC Ferries has opened up additional space onboard so customers can maintain physical distancing. Grab and go limited hot food and items are available on select vessels and routes.
· Arrive early if travelling by foot and be prepared for the weather. For the safety of passengers, BC Ferries does not permit crowding in its foot passenger areas, so some passengers may have to queue outdoors. Travellers are advised to check the forecast and bring an umbrella if necessary.
· Leave the vehicle if travelling on an enclosed vehicle deck during the sailing to comply with Transport Canada’s regulation. At this time of year, the enclosed decks remain cool and there are pet areas on the upper decks for passengers with pets, as well as enough space onboard to maintain physical distancing.
· Arrive at least an hour before sailing, as Transport Canada COVID-19 screening is in effect and it can take a little longer at check in.
· For those who have to travel for essential reasons, BC Ferries Vacations can assist with travel bookings for hotel and ferry travel to Victoria and Vancouver. Travellers can call 1.888.223.3779 extension 3 for more information.
In the release, BC Ferries assured customers it continues to have many additional measures in place for their safety and to prevent the spread of illness. Measures include additional cleaning and sanitization, support for physical distancing and physical barriers. BC Ferries encourages tap and pay, which is available on board and at terminals to support contactless payment.
Customers affected by the extended travel restrictions are encouraged to contact BC Ferries to change or cancel their holiday travel bookings. Reservation fees for existing bookings will be refunded for travel between now and January 8, 2021.
The release stated that BC Ferries does not tolerate any abuse, including verbal abuse, toward its employees or other passengers. The company takes those matters seriously, and a customer who abuses an employee or fellow passenger, including verbal abuse, may be denied service.
For more information and the measures BC Ferries is taking in response to COVID-19, go to bcferries.com.
