Trips for children onboard BC Ferries’ major routes will cost less over the 2025 Family Day travel period.
The ferry corporation announced this week it will be offering a $5 child fare for ages five to 11 on the four busy routes of Tsawwassen-Swartz Bay, Tsawwassen-Duke Point, Horseshoe Bay-Departure Bay, and Horseshoe Bay-Gibsons-Langdale.
This fare is available for trips made for the entire week-long period between Wednesday, February 12 and Wednesday, February 19, 2025, with Family Day falling on Monday, February 17. It is valid for both passengers on vehicles and walk-on.
But there is an important caveat: This fare must be pre-booked online in advance.
This represents nearly a half-price fare compared to the regular rate of $9.55 for ages five to 11. The discount does not apply to ages 12 or older ($19.10), while children under the age of five can already travel for free.
“The $5 child fare is one way we’re making it easier for families to connect, make memories and enjoy Family Day together,” said Melanie Lucia, vice president of customer experience at BC Ferries, in a statement.
“With the 60-year-old Queen of New Westminster still out of service and the challenges of managing an aging fleet, we’re doing everything we can to support smooth and affordable travel over the upcoming holiday weekend. At the same time, we’re focused on the long-term improvements that come with fleet renewal.”
The 1964-built Queen of New Westminster is currently undergoing repairs, ever since its propeller became detached in an incident in September 2024. This vessel typically serves the Tsawwassen routes reaching Swartz Bay and Duke Point.
BC Ferries is currently planning an order of new major vessels that will replace the aging fleet and expand capacity on the busiest routes linking Metro Vancouver with Vancouver Island and the Sunshine Coast.