Texada Island commuters using the water taxi service, connecting them to work and school in Powell River, are very happy with the service.
With 10 round trips each day, the taxi has been helping island residents commute while the Westview ferry terminal is closed for upgrades.
“This is my first try but it’s perfect from what I can see,” said Texada resident Alan Davis, while standing on the wharf at the south harbour waiting for the 3:45 pm trip home. “They’ve really gone above and beyond with this.”
In addition to the regular water taxi, Discovery Marine Safaris, the Campbell River company contracted by BC Ferries to operate the service, also runs a second boat for students in the morning and afternoon to meet the additional need.
The after-school run on Thursday, January 16, was full with 24 students aboard.
Chase Schroeder, a dual credits carpentry student at Vancouver Island University and Brooks Secondary School, has been using the service regularly since it started January 12 and said it is convenient. “It works out good for me,” said Chase, adding that he has not had any difficulty on his commute home.
A school bus waits for the students in Van Anda then transports them home.
“It’s definitely faster,” said one Brooks student. “It used to take 30 to 40 minutes, now it’s only like 15 minutes. It’s much better. I don’t get home so late.”
