A Vision For Coastal Ferry Services: Pre-Engagement Regional Forums Summary of Feedback
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A Vision For Coastal Ferry Services: Pre-Engagement Regional Forums Summary of Feedback
A Vision for Coastal Ferry Services: Pre-Engagement Regional Forums Summary of Feedback
Table of Contents
Introduction 1
2
Executive Summary 4
Key Themes 8
Key Topics 9
Accessibility 9
Amenities 9
Community connector 9
Demographics 10
Environment 11
Equity 11
Fares and pricing 12
Goods and services 13
Governance 13
Infrastructure design 14
Integration 15
Reservations and bookings 16
Residents and tourism 17
Routes and terminals 17
Scheduling 18
Next steps 19
1. A Vision for Coastal Ferry Services: Pre-Engagement Regional Forums Summary of Feedback
Introduction
In October 2019, the Government of British Columbia announced the development of a
provincial vision for the future of BC’s coastal ferry service.
Between October and November 2019, the Province engaged with more than 130
stakeholders in seven communities throughout coastal BC. These facilitated pre-engagement
forums, attended by Minister of Transportation and Infrastructure Claire Trevena, offered
an opportunity for stakeholders to share their priorities, concerns and considerations for
a provincial vision. What we heard in these forums is outlined in the following pages and
will help to inform a second round of engagement. This next round of engagement will be
launched in early 2020 and will feature online engagement opportunities, as well as in-person
meetings with local MLAs.
Coastal ferry service as we know it today is the result of the coordinated action of many
parties. Some operate within the Coastal Ferry Act (i.e. BC Ferries, BC Government, BC Ferry
Commission), and some operate outside of it (e.g. unregulated service providers). A key
recommendation of Blair Redlin’s independent 2018 Review of Coastal Ferry Services was
the development of a provincial vision for coastal ferry service. A clear vision informed by
community and stakeholder input will help to align these distinct parties and shape the
future of coastal ferry service in British Columbia.
2. A Vision for Coastal Ferry Services: Pre-Engagement Regional Forums Summary of Feedback
Pre-Engagement Overview
The objectives of the pre-engagement forums were:
1. To collect input on what ways ferry services are important to stakeholders in coastal
communities;
2. To collect ideas on what should be considered as part of a vision for coastal ferry
services; and
3. To inform the broader public engagement strategy.
These pre-engagement forums targeted a cross-section of perspectives representing
interests and regions from across British Columbia, including Indigenous communities and
organizations, industry and non-profit organization stakeholders, school districts, health
authorities, transportation planners and advocacy groups, Ferry Advisory Committees, labour
groups, and provincial and municipal elected officials.
A parallel and separate Indigenous engagement process was also launched. Letters were sent
to over 90 coastal First Nations to share information on the engagement process and invite
participation through in-person meetings to discuss their views on a coastal ferry vision.
The following table illustrates the timeline, location and attendance of the seven regional
forums held across the province:
Date Location Number of attendees*
October 16 Haida Gwaii 20
October 18 Sechelt 25
November 7 Vancouver 16
November 8 Comox 10
November 12 Nanimo 22
November 14 Victoria 19
November 15 Salt Spring Island 17
*Note: These numbers are not exhaustive as not all attendees filled in the sign-in sheet.
The forums opened with a group discussion of the following questions:
Thinking about life in coastal regions of BC in 10-20 years, how will the way we live, work and
get around change? What would a truly integrated marine and land-based transportation system
look like?
Supported by table facilitators, participants split into three groups to provide more detailed
input on three topics – Services, Ferry Users and Community – through a world café style
exercise. Participants spent the duration of the workshop sharing their perspectives on each of
these topic areas, guided by the following prompting questions:
3. A Vision for Coastal Ferry Services: Pre-Engagement Regional Forums Summary of Feedback
SERVICES
• Thinking about life in coastal BC in the next 10 - 20 years, what does a “trip of the future”
look like?
• How will demand for service change? How can these demands be met?
• Are there different routes or terminal locations that should be considered?
FERRY USERS
• Thinking about the ferry user of the future, who will they be and how might their needs
have changed?
• How will people use the ferry system in the future and how will ferry service need to
change to better meet these needs?
• Which user groups are currently not well served by the ferry service? How could ferry
service better serve the needs of these groups?
COMMUNITIES
• How does ferry service contribute to the economic, social, and environmental fabric of
coastal communities?
• Given all the challenges facing communities, how could ferry services better serve your
community in the future?4. A Vision for Coastal Ferry Services: Pre-Engagement Regional Forums Summary of Feedback
Executive Summary
Over the course of the seven regional forums, participants shared input on a wide variety of
topics: from accessibility to scheduling. These topics are listed and described below in the ‘Key
Topics’ section of the report. From these topics, four key themes emerged. These themes will
form the building blocks of the vision that will be developed in the next phase of engagement
for the Coastal Ferry Vision process.
In this pre-engagement phase, we heard that British Columbians want a coastal ferry system
that:
• Supports efficient end-to-end travel of people and goods;
• Is equitable and accessible;
• Mitigates and is responsive to climate change; and
• Reflects the values of coastal communities.
The following infographic shows how the key topics informed the development of each theme.
Thicker lines reflect stronger relationships between the themes and topics.5. A Vision for Coastal Ferry Services: Pre-Engagement Regional Forums Summary of Feedback
We engaged with stakeholders from a wide range of communities and backgrounds.
Participants shared with us both considerations and concerns regarding the current state of
coastal ferries in British Columbia, and the implications that these considerations have on
a vision for the future of coastal ferries. Some topics were common to all forums, and some
topics were specific to the location – reflecting unique perspectives of individual communities.6. A Vision for Coastal Ferry Services: Pre-Engagement Regional Forums Summary of Feedback
We encouraged participants at each forum to think creatively and not be constrained by the
ferry system as it is today. Throughout the forums, we heard about the crucial role ferries play
in the lives of many British Columbians. Ferries were often described as a ‘lifeline’ that connects
people with family, friends, work, essential services and medical appointments, goods, and
travel. For smaller communities, in particular, many participants spoke of the extent to which
people are entirely reliant on ferries.
There was widespread support for viewing ferry service as a public good, with many
participants considering ferry routes to be marine sections of BC’s highway network. Though
there was no clear consensus on how a vision could best support this, people discussed the
importance of recognizing coastal and island communities as integral parts of BC that should
be given equitable transportation service and support as those who live on the mainland.
We also heard the importance of a seamless and people-centred transportation experience.
Across all seven forums, there were three main topics of feedback relating to ferry users: the
types of people and groups who use ferries and their unique considerations and needs, the
different reasons why they use ferries, and the various ways they access them.7. A Vision for Coastal Ferry Services: Pre-Engagement Regional Forums Summary of Feedback
Some people currently rely on cars to get around, for reasons ranging from travelling with
children, pets or goods to inability to access terminals or destinations without a vehicle.
We also heard from participants who travel without a car – using active transportation or
public transit – and those who would do so provided the right mix of marine and land-side
services are available (including more and better transit and car-sharing options or active
transportation infrastructure).
An individual can fall into any one or multiple of these categories at different times. For
example, someone may commute for work with a car for some trips but by bike with their
children for leisure.
What we heard throughout this pre-engagement process will help to shape the second phase
of the visioning process, in which all British Columbians will have an opportunity to participate
in early 2020.
Key Themes
Four broad themes emerged from what we heard across the seven forums. Each theme is made
up of parts of multiple topics, which are described below in the ‘Key Topics’ section.
Theme 1: A coastal ferry system should support efficient
end-to-end journeys of people and goods
This theme reflects the idea of ferry service being viewed as a link in a chain of transportation
connectivity – from A to Z – instead of ferry service being viewed independently as a trip
from one terminal to another. People highlighted the importance of ‘complete’ or ‘end-to-
end’ journeys, from origin to destination. This would include not only ferry services, but also
connecting transportation services and infrastructure along the way between origins and
destinations – like buses or trains, bike lanes and storage, or safe sidewalks. Similar discussions
were also had around the transport of goods.
Theme 2: A coastal ferry system should be equitable
and accessible.
This theme encompasses the many discussions around equity of the ferry system. Many
participants shared their desire for a coastal ferry system that is accessible to everyone,
regardless of income or ability, while also reflecting the unique needs of ferry-dependent users
and communities. Affordability and physical accessibility of infrastructure were both major
topics within this theme, along with governance and a desire for increased accountability.8. A Vision for Coastal Ferry Services: Pre-Engagement Regional Forums Summary of Feedback
Key Themes
Four broad themes emerged from what we heard across the seven forums. Each theme is made
up of parts of multiple topics, which are described below in the ‘Key Topics’ section.
Theme 1: A coastal ferry system should support efficient
end-to-end travel of people and goods
This theme reflects the idea of ferry service being viewed as a link in a chain of transportation
connectivity – from A to Z – instead of ferry service being viewed independently as a trip from
one terminal to another. People highlighted the importance of ‘complete’ or ‘end-to-end’ travel,
from origin to destination. This would include not only ferry services, but also connecting
transportation services and infrastructure along the way between origins and destinations –
like buses or trains, bike lanes and storage, or safe sidewalks. Similar discussions were also had
around the transport of goods.
Theme 2: A coastal ferry system should be equitable
and accessible.
This theme encompasses the many discussions around equity of the ferry system. Many
participants shared their desire for a coastal ferry system that is accessible to everyone,
regardless of income or ability, while also reflecting the unique needs of ferry-dependent users
and communities. Affordability and physical accessibility of infrastructure were both major
topics within this theme, along with governance and a desire for increased accountability.
Theme 3: A coastal ferry system should mitigate and be
responsive to climate change.
This theme captures the importance of a coastal ferry system that acts to lessen its impact on
the environment, and is adaptive to the effects of climate change. British Columbia’s changing
physical environment in both the short- and long-term was a major topic, with the implications
of rising sea levels and more frequent severe weather or natural disasters being discussed at
many forums.
Theme 4: A coastal ferry system should reflect the values of the
coastal communities.
This theme is based on the recognition by many participants of the extent to which many
coastal communities are dependent on ferry service. Some participants also discussed the
differing needs and priorities of each community – and emphasized the importance of making
sure that all community voices are heard. Better aligning ferry service with the objectives of
communities, including formal community plans, was another key consideration within this theme.9. A Vision for Coastal Ferry Services: Pre-Engagement Regional Forums Summary of Feedback
Key Topics
The following pages describe the common topics heard across forums, outlining the various
needs and considerations for the development of a vision for coastal ferry services. These
topics are ordered alphabetically, and not in order of popularity or priority.
Accessibility
Accessibility was discussed in two primary forms: physical accessibility of ships and terminals
for people with mobility issues, and accessibility of ferry services regarding distance from the
origin and to the destination. Physical accessibility was referenced as a challenge for many
participants with mobility issues, with steep ramps and long distances between areas of
terminals and ships (such as passenger drop-off points to vessel entries) listed as examples.
The remote locations of many ferry terminals, and the challenges to access them without a
private vehicle, was also discussed as part of a broader conversation regarding the need for
better integrated transportation and support for non-vehicle modes of travel.
Amenities
At a high level, the dialogue around amenities for ferries and terminals was divided. Some
participants advocated for a variety of specific amenities, such as improved wi-fi, improved
workstation availability and quiet spaces, multiple-use spaces and dedicated children’s areas,
healthier or more sustainable food options, more social spaces, and water fountains. Others
favoured significantly cutting back on amenities in ferries - suggesting it could lead to capital
and operational efficiencies and reduced fares for passengers – as exemplified by Washington
State Ferries. Some suggested that these more ‘bare bones’ ferries could be particularly well-
suited for shorter routes.
Though not universal, the two sides to this discussion ultimately led to support for amenities
correlated with the length of the journey, and the type of user. For example, those who
regularly commute on short routes – such as Langdale to Horseshoe Bay – preferred minimal
amenities if it would lead to cost savings. Those who occasionally travel on longer routes, such
as Haida Gwaii to Prince Rupert or Salt Spring Island to Tsawwassen, were more likely to be in
favour of amenities.
Community connector
Many participants conveyed the importance of ferries to the social fabric of their communities.
In some cases, they referred to ferries as social spaces that should be designed as such (e.g.
pod-style seating instead of rows). In other cases, ferries were referred to as key links between
small islands – allowing them to remain connected to each other. Some participants urged that
ferries and their supporting infrastructure should better align with official community planning10. A Vision for Coastal Ferry Services: Pre-Engagement Regional Forums Summary of Feedback
processes and growth projections, and should strive to be better integrated with communities,
in general.
In many of the forums, participants emphasized that there is not a ‘one-size-fits-all’ approach
to coastal ferries. Each community – large or small – has unique priorities and challenges that
cannot necessarily be addressed with a single, centralized solution. Even within communities,
there is not always consensus on a preferred approach. For example, some participants raised
the possibility of building bridges to connect nearby island communities, while others from the
same communities were against the proposal for its potential negative social impacts. This is
important to consider moving forward with the development of a vision – while some aspects
may be relatively universal, the implementation of a vision will need to be customizable to
each region and community.
The uniqueness of communities is also true for British Columbia’s Indigenous communities –
particularly those who are located in, or were displaced to, rural, remote islands. Indigenous
participants in the forums discussed the importance of integrating Indigenous communities
into BC’s transportation networks – marine and otherwise – but doing so from the perspective
of partnership. Some Indigenous communities have developed private or community-run
marine transportation infrastructure, such as water taxis, that could be better integrated with
provincial systems. Ensuring that BC’s Indigenous peoples have equivalent access to essential
services was highlighted as a key point.
Demographics
Participants discussed how demographics are changing in their communities. Many
emphasized the importance of considering both current and expected demographics while
developing the vision. For example, we heard that some communities on the Sunshine Coast
have aging populations, but also are seeing more young families. These demographics may
have different expectations or needs for ferry infrastructure compared to the region’s current
or past populations, such as more accessible infrastructure for seniors or more children’s play
areas on ships. These shifts may also mean that demand for service might change (e.g. more
medical travel due to aging populations).
Some smaller communities are seeing population growth due to housing affordability issues
in urban centres, which has led to more people commuting using ferries. A few participants
suggested that migration to coastal communities may increase further if ferry service could
support a larger population.
Participants emphasized that infrastructure and policy will affect not only existing
demographics, but also future demographics. Given this, flexibility in the coastal ferry
system will be extremely important, and these trends should be carefully considered in the
development of the vision.11. A Vision for Coastal Ferry Services: Pre-Engagement Regional Forums Summary of Feedback
Environment
Conversations about the environment and environmental sustainability were threaded
throughout many of the forums. By far, the most prevalent idea within this topic was the desire
for the future vision to reflect a major shift toward foot passenger travel. Closely tied to the
topic of integration, participants shared their personal experiences as foot passengers as well
as recommendations to make travelling as a foot passenger easier and safer. These included
better in-terminal and on-ship storage for active transportation equipment (such as bikes),
safer and easier to use foot passenger terminal and ship designs, e-bike charging stations, and
improved luggage storage and transfer options.
The creation of foot passenger only ferries was also proposed by many participants as a
way to improve convenience, accessibility, travel times (for downtown to downtown travel)
and significantly reduce negative climate impacts such as greenhouse gas emissions by
transporting more people with less infrastructure. Foot passenger ferries with downtown to
downtown service would also reduce reliance on transit or private vehicles for connections to
and from terminals, which would have further environmental benefits.
Another popular topic was the electrification of coastal ferries. Though some acknowledged
that the technology to do so may not yet be feasible, many still urged the transition to occur
as soon as possible. Benefits cited included both the reduced greenhouse gas emissions and
improved air quality associated with electric engines, and potential benefits for marine life.
Shorter routes were suggested as ideal opportunities to pilot electric ferries.
Climate change was discussed with reference to both the greenhouse gas emissions from
ferries and the effects that it could have on ferry service. Several participants urged recognition
of the effects that sea-level rise will have on ferry infrastructure and questioned the extent
to which this has been incorporated in infrastructure development processes and land
use planning to date. Increased risk of service interruptions from severe weather was also
discussed, particularly at exposed terminals such as the one in Tsawwassen.
Equity
Topics around equity and fairness in the ferry system were discussed in all of the forums.
Some participants highlighted the tension around the idea of funding and subsidizing ferry
services for coastal communities, particularly communities with small populations. People
discussed how equity can be relative, with specific examples including islands compared
to the mainland, small islands compared to large islands, car travellers compared to active
transportation travellers, and local residents compared to tourists.
Conversations around the importance of the physical accessibility were also associated with
the idea of equity of transportation service offerings for all British Columbians. Concerns
around the potential equity implications of dynamic pricing were discussed at multiple forums,
in that some types of it (such as peak and off-peak pricing) could present significant barriers12. A Vision for Coastal Ferry Services: Pre-Engagement Regional Forums Summary of Feedback
to lower-income people accessing ferry services if not implemented carefully (such as offering
low-income exemptions). Equity considerations around the shift to digital-focused systems
and materials – such as schedules – were also discussed with participants pointing out that
they would not be easily available to some demographics (particularly seniors or those in rural
areas).
Fares and pricing
Fares and pricing structures were a major topic, with strong support for some form of
dynamic pricing from many participants. Dynamic pricing refers to any form of tiered or non-
standardized pricing, which could include discounts for some demographics (local residents,
seniors or youth), incentives to use certain types of transportation (like cycling or walking
discounts), or time-based pricing to shift usage to off-peak periods like night or early morning
sailings. Discounted fares for non-vehicle ferry travel were a prominent topic, with participants
mentioning reduced rates for foot passengers (as opposed to a universal passenger fare)
and eliminating surcharges for cyclists. A small number of participants highlighted the
importance of making sure that dynamic pricing – in whatever form it is implemented – isn’t
disproportionately unfair to lower-income people.
The sentiment that ferry fares are too high was shared by many participants. Some contended
that the ferry system is and should be considered a marine highway, which should be
subsidized in the same way as a road-based highway (i.e. free or with minimal user-paid fees).
Affordability issues were also discussed, primarily relating to smaller communities where
people rely on ferries to get to work, purchase groceries and other goods, or travel for medical
reasons. This was a particularly popular topic in Haida Gwaii, where long and/or overnight
trips are often required to access essential services – resulting in considerable expense. A
small number of people suggested raising fares to fund improved service offerings and fill
infrastructure gaps. Some also suggested that discounts should be based on income, rather
than age or other such demographics.
The integration of payment systems across transportation modes – for example, a Compass
Card type system that works with transit and ferries – was a popular topic in most forums.
Reasons shared in favour of this approach include ease of use and improved back-end
cooperation between agencies.
The topic of through fares was discussed, with a few participants expressing concern that, for
some routes, they are required to pay higher fares than would be required if a direct route
existed due to the need to take connecting ferries. Some suggested that through fare options
should exist for more routes, reflecting the inability to make some trips without taking two
ferries and paying two fares.
A few participants discussed the BC Ferries Experience card, generally expressing support
for the model but also raising concerns regarding the upfront investment required and the
relatively limited number of routes on which it can be used.13. A Vision for Coastal Ferry Services: Pre-Engagement Regional Forums Summary of Feedback
Participants also suggested a booking system that more specifically measured the length of
vehicles with fares priced accordingly. For example, someone driving a small two-seat vehicle
would not pay the same vehicle fare as someone in a large van.
Goods and services
Various elements of marine transportation of goods and services – essentially, the commercial
use of ferries – were discussed. The details of this discussion varied considerably by region,
reflecting the impact of geography and the nature of ferry service on each location.
Goods and services use of ferries was recognized by some participants as a crucial – though
somewhat underrecognized – consideration for the visioning process. Participants suggested
that growing populations in coastal communities will lead to increasing demand for goods
and services, which will need to be met by ferry service or other marine transportation options.
Some potential options were raised, including the creation of commercial-focused, priority
or dedicated sailings – potentially scheduled at night, to reduce impact on non-commercial
travellers. Some also suggested parallel marine transportation systems, such as barges, to
reduce overall demand on ferries.
The transportation of goods and services for inter-island purposes or from islands to the
mainland was also discussed, particularly with reference to burgeoning local economies in
many communities. Several participants emphasized the need to determine solutions that
not only support bringing goods to coastal communities, but that help export goods as well.
The potential for local production offsetting the need to import goods was mentioned. Some
participants who represented commercial organizations shared specific experiences with
commercial use of ferries, highlighting challenges such as difficulties with the reservation
system and safety and reliability concerns when travelling with livestock.
The importance of food security for island (or remote coastal) communities was also raised,
particularly regarding the risk of an earthquake or some other kind of natural disaster. Multiple
participants discussed the relatively small stockpiles of critical goods (such as food) in many
coastal communities or regions that would quickly be exhausted without ferry service in an
emergency.
Some participants highlighted challenges with small-scale goods transport – i.e. at a personal
level. Particularly as foot passengers, some said that bringing luggage of any kind (including
groceries) could be difficult. Suggestions to improve this included improved luggage drop-
off/pick-up at either side of a route, drop boxes at popular stores that would ship to coastal
communities, and dedicated shuttles.
Governance
The governance of BC’s coastal ferries was discussed extensively at some forums, with a focus14. A Vision for Coastal Ferry Services: Pre-Engagement Regional Forums Summary of Feedback
on BC Ferries and its relationship with the Government of British Columbia. Participants raised
considerations regarding this relationship and some BC Ferries policies. Overall, there was
a sentiment in many forums that the existing governance model has left all parties feeling
somewhat confined within the decision-making process with the ultimate responsibility and
authority for various processes unclear.
Support for the notion of coastal ferries being viewed as an essential service and/or part of
British Columbia’s highway network was widespread. Many spoke of ferries as a ‘lifeline’ for
their communities and shared concerns regarding the impacts of high costs, disrupted service,
and other issues sometimes associated with ferry service.
In multiple forums, people discussed the complicated relationship between the Government
of British Columbia and BC Ferries. Some advocated for integrating BC Ferries into the Ministry
of Transportation and Infrastructure portfolio – with comparisons made to BC’s inland ferries –
though some also acknowledged the challenges that would be associated with doing so.
Other considerations and concerns shared included a sentiment that BC Ferries is too profit-
and/or tourist-focused, and that aspects of service ranging from schedules to infrastructure
design support this mandate more than transporting local residents. Some also suggested
that BC Ferries should be more transparent about its policy and financial decision-making
processes – from how fares are determined, to executive compensation. A small number of
participants suggested exploring private options to complement BC Ferries service.
Infrastructure design
The design of ferries and supporting infrastructure (e.g. terminals) was a major topic at all
forums, though the specific aspects of it varied from region to region. Infrastructure was
broadly recognized as key to shaping the future of ferry service, from potential new routes to
the on-ship user experience.
The importance of recognizing differences between regions and their respective needs
and priorities was raised, in that the infrastructure suitable for one community may not be
suitable for another. For example, between two geographically or demographically similar
communities, one may be relatively self-sufficient, using ferries mostly for leisure or occasional
shopping trips. The other may be reliant on ferries on a much more frequent basis in order to
access crucial services such as medical care, education, or grocery stores. The infrastructure to
support each of these would vary significantly.
To help accommodate this, some participants suggested that future ferries be standardized
as much as possible to allow for simpler maintenance and universal training of crew. This
would be done to minimize the effects of breakdowns or staff absences on reliable service.
Some also suggested that ferries be designed with flexible or modular components to allow
for retrofitting to be done more easily in the future. An example of this would be ferries that
currently run on diesel or LNG fuels be converted to electric power from the grid once the15. A Vision for Coastal Ferry Services: Pre-Engagement Regional Forums Summary of Feedback
technology becomes feasible. Both suggestions support the broader theme of a more flexible
coastal ferry system.
The idea that ferries and terminals are being designed similarly today as they were several
decades ago was discussed at some forums. This was coupled with advocacy for designing for
desired future use, rather than designs that support and perpetuate current use. Specifically,
participants spoke to the continued design of ferries as being focused on private motor vehicle
transportation. On Salt Spring Island, the new Salish class vessels were given as an example
of this. Participants indicated that the vessels frequently reach their passenger capacity for
sailings, rather than vehicle (deck space) capacity – leading to foot passengers being turned
away. This was suggested to be evocative of the shift that is occurring toward greater foot
passenger mode share, which is being held back by vehicle-focused ferry infrastructure. Many
participants felt that if foot passenger ferry infrastructure (including connecting infrastructure,
such as public transit) was improved, there would be a major reduction in private vehicle traffic.
Terminal infrastructure was also discussed in various capacities. While some participants
spoke to specific aspects of terminal design and amenities, others focused on the potential
to completely re-imagine the concept and execution of ferry terminals. Associated with this
was discussion around the vehicle-centric design of most terminals, which include expansive
parking lots or car waiting areas, and how this can negatively affect the foot passenger user
experience and have land-use implications.
The notion of transitioning from viewing terminals as beginning and endpoints was discussed
at multiple forums, and instead viewing them as hubs or connection points of larger journeys.
To support this, some suggested that terminal should have limited amenities and should
instead adopt drive on/drive off models, with minimal waiting times. Some also suggested
avoiding ramps or complex boarding procedures and technology to support this. The
possibility of integrating rail rapid transit to more terminals was discussed in multiple forums,
including Vancouver and Nanaimo – in some cases making use of existing rail infrastructure.
A few participants at various forums brought up the possibility of building bridges to connect
closer island and coastal communities, though in some cases, other participants expressed
concerns with this approach due to economic or engineering infeasibility or potential social
issues that could result. Advocates for a bridge – particularly in Haida Gwaii, Comox and
Salt Spring – emphasized the stronger inter-community ties that it would create, as well as
improved reliability and security compared to ferries.
Integration
Integration was one of the most significant topics discussed in all forums. Participants spoke
to the need for integrated transportation infrastructure, and for integration between agencies
and organizations – such as BC Ferries, the Ministry of Transportation and Infrastructure,
TransLink and BC Transit working together to support seamless A-Z trips involving ferries.
This includes easy connections and transfers, integrated payment options (such as a universal16. A Vision for Coastal Ferry Services: Pre-Engagement Regional Forums Summary of Feedback
Compass Card), data sharing (such as usage statistics) and straightforward, safe and not overly
time-consuming use of non-private vehicle modes of travel like active transportation and
public transit.
Participants discussed the importance of transportation infrastructure, and how ferry usage
demand would likely climb with improved infrastructure (both ferry-related and connecting).
This was frequently mentioned as being particularly important for modes other than
single-occupant vehicles – such as public transit or active transportation – as supporting
infrastructure is often lacking, making A-Z trips involving ferries unfeasible. For example, the
lack of bike storage and difficulties bringing bikes on public transit mean that some who might
otherwise cycle and take transit for most of their trip are instead required to bring their cars (or
may not take ferry trips at all, if they can’t access a car). Similarly, the absence of high quality
or convenient pet facilities may encourage people to take cars. There was strong support from
many participants for a vision and policy that would facilitate more non-vehicle ferry use.
Improved integration between ferry service and public transit was a particularly prominent
topic, with participants in many communities highlighting its importance. The specific
suggestions and needs varied slightly from community to community – from Vancouver
stakeholders requesting better alignment between transit and ferry schedules to those
in Sechelt requesting better transit for more rural and suburban areas. In general, there
was considerable support for viewing transportation as an interconnected system, and
infrastructure such as bus stops, ferry terminals and park and rides as ‘hubs,’ or transfer points.
Reservations and bookings
Opinions regarding reservations and bookings were mixed. While support for reservation
systems of some kind was seen at most forums, the strength of this support and the form of
the preferred reservation system varied considerably. Although preferred systems did vary, the
needs and priorities that drove those preferences were almost universal: a desire for a system
that was both reliable enough to plan travel and activities around, and flexible enough to
accommodate unexpected events or emergencies.
Some participants advocated for a shift to a fully reservable model, citing the airline industry
as an example. This model would see all space – either for vehicles only or vehicle and foot
passenger space – made available for reservations. This contrasts with the typical reservation
model for many coastal ferries today, which only allows a portion of deck space to be reserved.
Proposed benefits of this model include allowing for better forecasting of demand (and,
consequently, shifting resources to meet that demand) and providing certainty that one will
make it on a ferry at a given time.
A smaller number of participants were firmly opposed to a fully reservable model, largely
on account of concerns regarding inflexibility for local resident travel or emergency travel.
Proposed solutions were to move to a nearly fully reservable system (e.g. 95%) with a small
amount dedicated for last-minute or standby travel. Some also suggested giving priority to
local residents or those with urgent travel needs, either as a part of this system or in general.17. A Vision for Coastal Ferry Services: Pre-Engagement Regional Forums Summary of Feedback
The fare structure for reservations was also discussed. Many people were in favour of shifting
universally to a deposit-based reservation model, where instead of paying a separate fee
to reserve ferry users would pre-pay a portion of their fare in order to reserve a spot. Some
suggested that this pre-payment be refundable within reason (e.g. an hour before the trip) to
provide greater flexibility. Concerns were raised that reservations in general – and particularly
the fee-based reservation model – advantage wealthier people disproportionately and make
reservations inaccessible to lower-income people or families.
In Haida Gwaii, particularly, the accuracy of the bookings system and the need for accurate
updates were discussed. Participants highlighted that publicly listed amount of committed
deck space is often wrong, which leads to people waiting at the terminal for standby travel as a
matter of course.
Residents and tourism
The relationship between local residents and non-residents was discussed in most forums.
In general, there was support for the notion of a ferry service that prioritized locals over non-
locals (particularly tourists) regarding ferry access priority, fare pricing and scheduling. That
said, some participants also emphasized the need for balance between meeting the needs of
both groups and discussed the important role that non-locals play in providing goods, services
and contributing to tourism economies in communities. Suggestions included expanded
discount programs for locals, dedicating portions of deck space on each sailing to use by locals,
and creating schedules that align better with the needs of communities.
Tourism was a major topic at most forums, with participants sharing input both on their own
experiences using ferries as tourists and on ferry-based tourism in their communities. Tourism
is key to the economies of many coastal and island communities, but the demands of tourism
on the ferry system can draw resources away from residents who depend on them for day-
to-day life. Some participants suggested having alternate pricing systems for tourists, such
as a tourism fee to be added to all ferry fares that could be reinvested in the ferry route or the
community. Participants also suggested greater numbers of sailings overall to accommodate
the rising demand stemming from increased tourism, but also trying to encourage fewer peaks
and valleys of tourism throughout the year by equalizing ferry schedules instead of having
major seasonal shifts.
The user experience of tourists was discussed to a lesser extent, though some participants
mentioned potential impacts that changes would have on tourists specifically. One topic that
was discussed more extensively was a potential shift to a fully-reservable system needing to be
adequately publicized so that tourists would be aware of the requirement to book in order to
access island or coastal communities.
Routes and terminals
A wide range of potential new or altered routes and terminal locations were suggested. In
many cases, suggestions focused on new foot passenger only service. For the most part,18. A Vision for Coastal Ferry Services: Pre-Engagement Regional Forums Summary of Feedback
participants were in favour of these potential routes being implemented seasonally if that was
more feasible. Suggestions included:
• Downtown Vancouver to downtown Victoria
• Downtown Nanaimo to downtown Vancouver
• Better inter-island Gulf Islands service (with more direct or circular – ‘milk run’ – routes)
• Nanaimo to Sunshine Coast
• Gibsons to downtown Vancouver
• Royal Bay to downtown Victoria
• Nanaimo to YVR
• Mill Bay to Patricia Bay
• Langdale to Squamish
• Swartz Bay to Nanaimo with car service
• Shifting passenger transport away from Duke Point terminal
(reserving it for commercial use)
Generally, some participants advocated for a greater number of smaller, localized routes rather
than a small number of large routes (with appropriately sized infrastructure) that is more like
the status quo. They also were largely in favour of reducing the number of connecting routes,
where possible, to minimize unnecessary travel. For example, ferry users currently travel from
the Sunshine Coast through Horseshoe Bay in order to reach Nanaimo. A direct route from the
Sunshine Coast to Nanaimo would reduce demand for the Langdale to Horseshoe Bay route
and on its supporting infrastructure.
Scheduling
Scheduling of ferry services was a prominent topic at most of the regional forums. Overall,
participants expressed support for schedules that both better reflected modern travel patterns
and lifestyles, and that better integrate with other modes of transportation.
Many participants shared concerns that current schedules are unaccommodating to people
who do not work typical ‘nine-to-five’ jobs, those who participate in extracurricular activities
(such as youth sports teams) and individuals who want to make connecting trips. Some Salt
Spring Island, Sechelt and Comox participants mentioned the difficulty of travelling from their
homes to the forum locations by ferry and being able to return on the same day as examples of
these challenges.
A need for simplified scheduling was also frequently mentioned, with participants discussing
the difficulty of understanding schedules that have extensive exceptions and seasonal
changes. Some participants also suggested that seasonal scheduling should not overly
incentivize summer travel through much higher frequency of sailings, as it encourages
significant peaks and valleys in local tourism industries. Instead, they recommended slightly
more consistent levels of service year-round.19. A Vision for Coastal Ferry Services: Pre-Engagement Regional Forums Summary of Feedback
Next steps
The next phase of engagement will launch in early 2020 and will feature online engagement as
well as in-person meetings with local MLAs.
This next phase will inform the development of a provincial vision that will shape the future of
coastal ferries in British Columbia.You can also read
