More ferry passengers complying with exiting vehicles

VICTORIA, B.C. — Reports of passengers resisting rules requiring them to get out of their vehicles during B.C. Ferries sailings have plummeted by 90 per cent this month, says Transport Canada.

The federal agency is in the process of examining approximately 1,000 reports submitted by B.C. Ferries of passengers who did not want to leave vehicles parked in enclosed decks after the rule was reinstated at the end of September.

Historically, passengers were allowed to remain in their vehicles parked on levels with enclosed decks during sailings. But in 2017, Transport Canada — which has jurisdiction over B.C. Ferries — announced that passengers in those lower levels would have to leave their vehicles to head upstairs.

When the pandemic hit, Transport Canada temporarily permitted people to stay in their vehicles. The rule was brought back in this fall.

Many passengers complained about the decision and have been supported by Premier John Horgan. They maintain they are better protected from COVID-19 if they are permitted to stay in their vehicles during a crossing.

Of the roughly 1,000 reports sent to Transport Canada between Oct. 1 and Nov.

27, about 75 per cent were written up on the Departure Bay-Horseshoe Bay route, Sau Sau Liu, spokesperson for the federal agency, said in a statement.

After the rule was reinstated, RCMP officers were brought in for random checks to work with B.C. Ferries staff and Transport Canada marine inspectors to make sure it was followed.

Passengers are increasingly following the rule.

“The reports of non-compliance decreased by over 90 per cent in November due to the joint patrols, reduced passenger levels and increased education,” Liu said.

Passengers who stay in vehicles in enclosed decks will be spoken to by officials more than once during patrols of the lower decks, B.C. Ferries officials say. They are given an information sheet describing Transport Canada rules and possible penalties.

“In most cases, our first enforcement step will be a follow-up letter to the vehicle owner reminding them of the requirements to leave the enclosed vehicle deck, unless other action is appropriate including fines starting at $600,” Liu said.

If Transport Canada deems the matter to require a more severe response, it has the authority to impose a fine of up to $12,000.

The agency considers factors such as the severity of a violation of rules, if the party understood that they were not complying, if there is a history of not complying and if they co-operated.

Options include verbal a nd written warnings, a written notice, a corrective plan, a ticket, a fine, and prosecution.

B.C. Ferries is looking at opening up more seating on board its larger ferries by using the now-closed buffet areas and enhancing outdoor seating on decks by creating spaces protected from poor weather.

Transport Canada states that passengers do not have to choose between personal safety and marine safety. By physical distancing, wearing a mask and leaving enclosed decks, “passengers and crew can stay safe,” Liu said.