Travel and Boarding | BC Ferries (2024)

FAQs

Is it cheaper to book a ferry in advance? ›

Tips For Cheaper Ferry Tickets

Avoid peak times - If you can, avoid booking at times of peak demand, such as during school holidays. Book in advance - Generally, the lowest fares are available when you book in advance. So book as early as possible before your travel date.

No. For safety reasons all passengers must leave their vehicles and make their way to the lounges or open decks.

If you choose to travel without a booking on a later sailing, you can purchase a Standard at Terminal fare and be loaded on the next available sailing based on order of arrival at the terminal and deck space availability. For the most up-to-date departure information, visit current conditions and check service notices.

Each port, route, and ferry company might have different most expensive days. Supposedly Tuesday & Wednesday are the cheapest days to sail, but always check for each journey. If you can't choose a cheaper day, then checking what time of day is cheaper is the next step.

Prices will generally be higher on more popular sailing times and dates. Sailing during the day on longer crossings, booking weekday trips, and avoiding travelling around the school and public holidays can save you money.

Make sure you leave in plenty of time – check-in closes 90 minutes prior to scheduled departure time for foot passengers and customers travelling with pets, and 60 minutes for all other categories of traffic.

Cabins are available in two-bed (side by side) and four-bed (upper and lower) layouts. Features include: Linens, duvet, and pillow. Private washroom with shower, sink, and toilet.

Can you sleep in a ferry seat? ›

Accommodations on board for overnight trips

When traveling by sea during the night hours it is possible to sleep with an assigned seat, in an armchair or in a berth, or perhaps in an exclusive cabin depending on the type of accommodation on board selected during the booking phase.

Do you check in your luggage on ferries? No, there is no check-in procedure for luggage items.

Operational CostsFuel: Ferries are fuel-intensive, and fluctuating fuel prices significantly impact ticket costs. Staffing: Ferry operations require substantial crew and support staff, contributing to labor costs passed on to passengers.

“They have a huge capital plan and the cost of building ships and terminals — all of that doesn't really follow inflation.” The ferry system, even when operating efficiently, will see costs surpass inflation, Hage said. Costs include not just capital expenses but operating costs as well.

Seniors (65 years or older) who are not BC residents should book the adults & seniors fare type. Must be a resident of British Columbia. BC Seniors travel free on select routes¹ Monday to Thursday² with one of these valid IDs: BC Services Card.

It's generally best to avoid peak times but the weekend isn't automatically the most expensive time. Each port, route, and ferry company might have different most expensive days. Supposedly Tuesday & Wednesday are the cheapest days to sail, but always check for each journey.

Booking your ferry crossing in advance is one of the most effective ways to save money. Ferry companies often offer early bird discounts, encouraging travelers to book their tickets well ahead of time. By taking advantage of these deals, you can secure substantial savings on your ferry crossing prices.

A Great Way to Save Money

Especially if you're going to be traveling during the peak vacation periods. Booking early means getting exactly where you want to go at a lower price.