B.C. Ferries carries nearly five million passengers on Island and Coast routes through summer season

B.C. Ferries says summer 2025 has rewritten the record books in terms of volume of travelers. 

Between May 15 and August 31, B.C. Ferries welcomed 4.7 million passengers and 2.1 million vehicles across routes between Metro Vancouver, Vancouver Island and the Sunshine Coast. 

Vice-President of Customer Experience Melanie Lucia said this summer showed them what’s possible when preparation meets dedication. 

“From our crews on board the vessels to our teams at the terminals and offices behind the scenes, every part of our organization pulled together to deliver safe, reliable service for millions of travelers.”

To prepare for the busy summer season, B.C. Ferries completed more vessel refits and maintenance projects than normal, hired 600 seasonal and operational staff and offered more saver fares to encourage off-peak travel. 

B.C. Ferries says 572 mechanical issues were experienced over the summer season, 29 of which came from the more than 60-year-old Queen of New Westminster, which is why fleet renewal isn’t optional. 

Four new hybrid-electric Island Class vessels are on track for a 2026 delivery, and four new major vessels are expected to replace aging ships like the Queen of New Westminster in 2029. 

Across all routes in the summer, B.C. Ferries carried 9.4 million passengers and 3.7 million vehicles on their routes, representing 2.2 and 2.0 per cent increases from 2024. 

Nathan Maley
Nathan Maley
Born and raised in Nanaimo, Nathan is passionate about sharing local stories with the communities where he grew up. When he’s not working, he can often be found on the court playing ball hockey, spending time with friends and family, or relaxing with a good movie.

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