BC Ferries is increasing its fares starting this spring.
The company says as of April 1, fares will rise by 3.25 per cent.
“So what that means is … for people who will book in advance, you’re going to see more discounts through pre-paid and Saver Fares. And for those of you that drive up, people who don’t book in advance, there’s going to be increases of anywhere from just over 50 cents for foot passengers to just over $4 for a vehicle and driver (on major routes),” explained Jeff Groot, executive director, communications, BC Ferries.
The 3.25 per cent increase will also be reflected in prices for minor routes.
While fares are rising, BC Ferries says it’s adding incentive for passengers to book off-peak sailings to help alleviate some pressure.
“We’re making a bit of a change in how we look at changes this year,” said Groot.
“What we’re looking to implement as as soon as April 1 is, we’re going to be offering space for double the amount of people than before to be able to take advantage of our Safer Fares between Metro Vancouver and Vancouver Island.
“What that means is, if you book ahead, you’re going to be able to take advantage of lower rates, you’re going to have your reservation included in those Saver Fares.”
Groot says the intent behind this is to encourage people to choose less-busy sailing times while giving them the “certainty of knowing when you’re going to travel.”
“We can also improve the experience and hopefully decrease some of the congestion in our terminals, hopefully decrease some of the sailing waits and, really, for everybody looking to travel across the system, make that a smoother experience for them,” he told CityNews Thursday.
The fare increases are set by the Ferry Commissioner, based on what is needed to run the system every year, Groot explains.
source & photo : CityNews
