Posted: Thursday, July 30, 2026
Busy weekend expected
BC Day long weekend is the busiest weekend of the year for ferry travel on the coast. Our major routes between the Lower Mainland and Vancouver Island are expected to be at or near capacity for vehicles during peak times.
Be prepared for sailing waits if a booking has not been made in advance of travel. Depending on when you arrive, there may be limited or no space available for drive-up vehicles. Check Current Conditions before leaving for the terminal for the latest sailing and capacity information, and check Service Notices for operational updates.
If your plans are flexible, consider taking transit and travel as a foot passenger. Walk-on bookings are available on our major routes at no additional cost and are recommended to help secure your preferred sailing. BC Day long weekend travel tips can be found here.
Chemainus
Chemainus is a community in the Chemainus Valley on the east coast of southern Vancouver Island—a 30 minute drive south of Nanaimo. Sailings from Chemainus provide service to Thetis Island and Penelakut Island.
Boarding is based on order of arrival at the terminal. Check-in and ticket sales close five minutes prior to the scheduled sailing for foot passengers and vehicles.
If you lost an item while travelling with us, call:
- 1-888 BC FERRY (1-888-223-3779)
Washroom
Waiting room
Restaurant nearby
Coffee shop nearby
Shopping nearby
ATM nearby
Limited free parking at the terminal (12 spaces, 48-hour limit).