Staffing shortages have led to ferry service reduction between Gabriola Island and Nanaimo this afternoon.
In a Saturday, April 1 service notice, B.C. Ferries said it failed to secure the proper amount of crew members for the Island Gwawis and as such sailings from Nanaimo Harbour at 3:25 and 4:35 p.m. and from Descanso Bay in Gabriola at 2:50, 4 and 5:05 p.m. won’t be sailing as scheduled.
However, B.C. Ferries said the Island Kwigwis ferry will be maintaining its regular schedule.
B.C. Ferries said it apologizes for the inconvenience caused, but the move was necessary in order to adhere to federal rules.
“We require a specific number of crew members on board the vessel to ensure the safety of our passengers in the unlikely event of an emergency and to comply with Transport Canada regulations,” said B.C. Ferries. “The decision to cancel a sailing in these circumstances is made when we have exhausted all options to find replacement crew.”
B.C. Ferries said customers will be notified immediately if crew become available.
READ ALSO: B.C. Ferries fares could rise 9.2%, but CEO says they won’t
karl.yu@nanaimobulletin.com
Like us on Facebook and follow us on Twitter
