FAQs

Over the next several years, the Horseshoe Bay terminal will undergo a series of essential infrastructure improvements. This work will include life extending or replacing the three berths, relocating the control tower, addressing aging elevated structures, improving seismic safety and enhancing the terminal’s operational efficiency.

Some projects such as work on the elevated structures and the control tower relocation are already in the planning stages with on-going construction activities already underway.

Horseshoe Bay is one of BC Ferries’ oldest and busiest terminals, and like other long-serving infrastructure that has supported communities for decades, many of its components are nearing the ends of their useful operational lives. In addition, work is required on the berths to maintain their functionality and ensure they can accommodate the future integration of the New Major Vessels into our fleet.

The work will take several years to complete. In 2025, we will begin the process of selecting contractors for some of the initial projects, with work starting once this process is complete.

As we work through project planning, we will have a clearer understanding of any potential impacts to passengers. We will provide as much notice as possible in advance of any anticipated changes or disruptions.

As we work through the project planning, we will have a better understanding of any potential impacts to the local community and will develop mitigation measures. We will provide as much notice as possible in advance of any anticipated disruptions for the local community.

• BC Ferries is undertaking a major infrastructure renewal program at Horseshoe Bay Terminal to improve on-time performance, enhance the customer experience and ensure continued safe and reliable operations.  
• Starting in the fall, major construction activities will take place at the terminal, including the deconstruction of the elevated concrete holding area and the relocation of the terminal’s traffic operations centre or control tower. During this phase of work, vehicle space inside the terminal is expected to be reduced by approximately 25%, with overall vehicle space to remain below current levels for several years as construction progresses.
• Beginning this fall, a pre-booking only model will be introduced for all vehicles travelling from Horseshoe Bay to Departure Bay, with drive-up fare options no longer available. A portion of vessel deck space will continue to be available for emergency responders and passengers with Medical Assured Loading. This change applies to one direction only and is designed to prevent traffic from backing up onto the highway, keeping customers and staff safe, and supporting better traffic flow through the terminal during construction. Vehicle pre-bookings are recommended but not required for the return trip from Departure Bay to Horseshoe Bay, and foot passengers can continue to travel in both directions without a reservation.
• The move to a fully reservable model will reduce highway backups, improve on-time performance, and improve safety, leading to a better travel experience for customers who rely on this route.   
• We know this will be a significant change for all of our customers, employees and residents of Horseshoe Bay. We will be regularly sharing information about the progress of the infrastructure improvements, changes at the terminal and impacts on our customers and neighbours, and are committed to providing as much notice as possible in advance of any anticipated changes or disruptions.
• Our priority is to minimize impacts much as possible throughout the duration of the project. 

The change to a 100% pre-booking only model for Route 2 will be in place throughout the duration of the program, which is expected to last several years. 

Starting in the fall, Route 2 (Horseshoe Bay to Departure Bay) customers will need to pre-book in advance, with drive up fare choices no longer available. 

Further details on Assured Loading Ticked holders will be announced in the coming months. Work is underway to consider any changes to pricing, check-in and booking timelines, assured loading travel that may be required to help support this change and manage traffic moving through the terminal. 

We’re still in the early stages of planning the program and will know more in the coming months. We do anticipate there will be some nighttime construction activity in an effort to keep the terminal operating at capacity.