Mechanical problem halts 4 BC Ferries runs between Horseshoe Bay, Nanaimo

A mechanical problem grounded a BC Ferries vessel, causing cancellations on a busy route between West Vancouver and Vancouver Island.

BC Ferries announced just before 7 a.m. Friday morning that four trips are being canceled.

“We appreciate your patience and apologize for any inconvenience you may experience as a result of these cancellations,” the statement said.

The 6:30am and 11:25am sailings from Vancouver’s Horseshoe Bay have been cancelled, and the 9:05am and 1:40pm sailings from Nanaimo’s Departure Bay have also been cancelled.

Mechanical difficulties with the Queen of Oak Bay backup power supply led to cancellations.

Other sailings are expected to continue as normal and an alternate route from Tsawwassen to Duke Point is suggested.

“If you have a booking on one of these canceled voyages, you will hear from our Customer Service Center to let you know whether we can arrange you for an alternative sailing later today,” says a spokesperson. “If your reservation needs to be canceled. In the event of a cancellation, we will refund your taxes and/or fees.”

The next available sailing from Horseshoe Bay to Nanaimo is at 20:40 as the 16:00 and 18:20 are both full.

Queen of Cowichan operates and runs 4pm from Nanaimo to Horseshoe Bay with space available as early as Friday morning.