BC’s ferry commissioner is looking for public comment on BC Ferries’ plan to modernize its computer systems.
Called the Fare Flexibility and Digital Experience Initiative, the program will allow the ferry corporation to update its information technology infrastructure and facilitate a shift to an online or phone-in booking system similar to airlines or hotels.
BC Ferries said the new system will reduce wait times for its passengers and give the opportunity for discounted fares for off-peak travel. The current reservation system costs users between $15 to $22 per trip and provides about two per cent of the ferry corporation’s annual revenue. In the proposed system there would be no additional charge for reservations.
“BC Ferries has heard from our customers that they want more flexibility in how they book travel in the future, more certainty at the terminal that they will be able to board the sailing they want, and more opportunities for discounted fares,” said Mike Corrigan, BC Ferries president and CEO in a media release.
According to BC Ferries, the program will be given a test run on its Vancouver to Vancouver Island routes in 2017, followed later by its Horseshoe Bay - Langdale route.
The ferry corporation has submitted its plan to Gord Macatee, BC ferry commissioner. Macatee’s office is collecting public comments on the plan, which is estimated to cost between $10 and $15 million, until December 31. His decision is expected in February 2015. For more information and to comment, readers can visit the Ferry Commission's website.
