Staffing Shortages Forcing Further Ferry Cancellations

Staffing shortages has meant cancellations and delays for travelers trying to get a ferry to the Lower Mainland from Salt Spring Island.

Staffing shortages has meant cancellations and delays for travelers trying to get a ferry to the Lower Mainland from Salt Spring Island.

BC Ferries says multiple crossings have been cancelled in recent days, including at Fulford Harbour as well.

As travelers made their way to other terminals, they were also warned of either cancellations or delays.

Deborah Marshall, the executive director of public affairs for BC Ferries, says absentee levels have doubled the last couple years, since before the pandemic.

She says as many as 11 percent of BC Ferries employees are off sick currently, equating to about 400-500 employees unavailable.

If you are heading out, BC Ferries suggests you check their website and social media ahead of time for any scheduling changes.

Sunday sailings to the MV Frances Barkley ferry on the Alberni Inlet and Barkley Sound route are making a return for the month of August.

Beginning August 7th, sailings will depart Port Alberni at 9am for a a 3.5 hour scenic sailing along the inlet and sound, as well as an approximate 2 hour stop-over in West Bamfield. Reservations are highly recommended as these sailings are anticipated to be in high demand.

The last Sunday sailing will be on August 28, 2022. Lady Rose Marine Services has also unveiled a new food and beverage menu on board and are now fully licensed to serve wine and beer as well.

A full refit of the vessel was completed earlier this year updating navigational aids with the most advanced equipment available and reducing fuel consumption by 10%.

Lady Rose Marine Services currently ferries passengers, freight, and supplies on the MV Frances Barkley ferry for day cruises along the inlet from Port Alberni to Bamfield year-round.

The only ferry linking remote communities in the Alberni Inlet and Barkley Sound, the vessel is a vital means of communication; shuttling mail for Canada Post and offering transportation for isolated communities and lodges along the inlet.

Spokesperson Greg Willmon says ridership has been climbing steadily and is quickly approaching pre-pandemic numbers.

His company, Devon Transport, purchased Lady Rose Marine Services last year, retaining the entire ferry team and managed to continue service without interruption.

Willmon was recently awarded a 2022 Community Excellence Award for Business Investment from the Alberni Valley Chamber of Commerce.