BC Ferries announced today that they are now allowing passengers to stay on the lower car deck due to the COVID-19 situation.

“Customers may remain in their vehicles on the enclosed car deck during the COVID-19 situation, to help support social distancing and self-isolation,” says their website.

“The decision is the result of collaboration between Transport Canada and the Canadian Ferry Association to provide ferry operators with important flexibility to help protect passengers and their families from COVID-19 related risks, while also ensuring additional measures are taken to ensure passenger safety.

“The purpose of keeping passengers off closed car decks is to ensure their safety in the case of an emergency. BC Ferries will increase patrols on the enclosed car deck to ensure safety in the rare event of an emergency. Passengers will not be allowed on closed car decks once the COVID-19 situation ends.”

This is just one of the precautions that BC Ferries is taking. A travel advisory has also been issued, informing the public that sailings will be reduced between Victoria and Vancouver.

BC Ferries is reducing service between Vancouver and Victoria on Tuesday, March 17 through ​Monday, March 23. Click here to view cancelled sailings.

Additionally, following the guidance of health officials, the Pacific Buffet on the Spirit of Vancouver Island, the Spirit of British Columbia and the Coastal Celebration has been closed until further notice.