It took long enough, but BC Ferries is finally moving into the 21st century.

Passengers heading between the mainland and Vancouver Island will soon be able to purchase their tickets using a debit card.

Up until this point, travellers were forced to use credit cards or cash to buy tickets at both foot passenger and vehicle ticketing areas.

“Tap and pay capability for both credit and debit will also be available with the installation of new pin pads,” said a statement from BC Ferries.

“This will help speed the ticketing process for customers with transactions under the $100 tap limit.”

Ferry terminals between Metro Vancouver and Vancouver Island will get this technology upgrade by the end of March, while smaller and lesser-used terminals will have them by the end of the spring.