Earlier today, a significant safety incident occurred at the Horseshoe Bay terminal involving a commercial vehicle that made an unauthorized turn on the transfer deck. This unexpected maneuver prompted BC Ferries to take immediate action, deploying a maintenance team to assess the deck's condition and ensure it remains safe for future use.

BC Ferries emphasized the importance of safety in their response, stating, “This is just a precaution, but safety always comes first,” highlighting their commitment to passenger wellbeing. As part of their thorough response, the company is currently reviewing CCTV footage and conducting an internal investigation to determine the causes of the incident and to implement measures that will help prevent any similar occurrences in the future.

Due to this incident, all evening sailings from Horseshoe Bay to Departure Bay will be restricted to using the main deck for loading. Under Transport Canada regulations, passengers will be required to exit their vehicles during the crossing while on the main deck, raising concerns for those who prefer to remain in their cars during transit.

Witnesses have reported that this incident has further affected operations on Route 3, leading to vessels departing with upper decks empty, which could cause delays in service and inconvenience for travelers.

For those who prefer to stay in their vehicles, BC Ferries recommends using the Tsawwassen to Duke Point route as an alternative option to minimize disruptions to travel plans.

Terminal staff are on hand to assist passengers through this process, and BC Ferries is committed to providing timely updates if there are any changes to operational procedures. Travelers are encouraged to check the BC Ferries website and follow their social media channels for real-time information and updates.

Additionally, addressing some concerns raised about vehicle restrictions, BC Ferries clarified that it is the height limitation of each vessel, rather than the size of the vehicle itself, that dictates loading procedures. For instance, both the Queen of Coquitlam and Queen of Surrey have height limits set at 6'11", while other vessels in their fleet may allow heights ranging from 7' to 9'4".

As this situation unfolds, staying informed will be crucial for all travelers planning to use the Horseshoe Bay terminal in the coming hours and days. Keep an eye on official updates to ensure a smooth travel experience.