Times Colonist

Relax and enjoy the ride

- www.bcfconnect­or.com

The BC Ferries Connector has been operated by The Wilson’s Group since February 2016, however, a cross water service of similar nature has been operating with BC Ferries for over 50 years.

The BC Ferries Connector operated by The Wilson’s Group, offers year-round, daily scheduled services between Downtown Victoria and Downtown Vancouver. Commuters enjoy hassle-free, convenient transfers in the comfort of a luxury coach. With multiple departures, the service is both convenient and dependable, with several options for pick-up and drop-off points enroute in both Victoria and Vancouver. BC Ferries Connector buses are first-on and -off the ferry, giving passengers the opportunit­y to find their preferred seats, or be early to one of the popular food services. Once onboard the ferry, travelers can relax and enjoy the spectacula­r 95-minute cruise through the Gulf Islands. BC Ferries Connector also provides transfers between Victoria and both YVR Vancouver Internatio­nal Airport and the Vancouver Cruise Ship Terminal at Canada Place. There are also options to travel from any of the Vancouver destinatio­ns from both the Gulf Island and Nanaimo.

Worried about luggage transfers?

With the help of Wilson’s friendly drivers and curbside concierges, loading your luggage aboard is never a problem. Luggage remains safely tucked away until you arrive at your dstination. The BC Ferries Connector allows residents to travel to and from the mainland and also supports bringing tourists to our amazing destinatio­n. Wilson’s has incredible team that work very hard to ensure that passengers have an excellent experience. From the informatio­n and purchasing on the company website to frontline staff in customer care, drivers and staff at the bus station, and those behind the scenes in the shop or accounting, it takes many hands to ensure this is a smooth operation. We believe that it is our staff that makes all the difference in the experience customers have, and this is what keeps them coming back. Our drivers are not just drivers, but they pride themselves on sharing informatio­n about destinatio­ns, especially for tourists and locals who use the service regularly; it’s nice to see a familiar face on the bus, ready to greet you with a smile. In October 2016, we opened our own customer experience call centre in Victoria, employing between 10 to 14 full-time employees at any given time. Our agents live and play here so they are familiar with the area and are able to provide first-hand informatio­n about the travel experience. Wilson’s offers frequency and reliabilit­y – in winter months, we offer four departures on each side every single day, and in the summer months, we offer seven departures daily. And we run, no matter the weather. If BC Ferries is operating, we are, too – its that easy.

New products, services and events

Watch, this winter, for a Whistler ski bus package with a BC Ferries Connector. No need to make that drive when we can hook you up all the way to Blackcomb Mountain. We have also packaged with some great activities and events in Vancouver; watch our Facebook page for regular updates. The Wilson Group, a family-owned and operated business for over 50 years, was started by Mary and Kello Wilson on Salt Spring Island. Currently, there are three generation­s of family in the business: John Wilson is the CEO and President, along with third generation Andrew Wilson, Samantha Wilson and Travis Wilson.

FYI TripAdviso­r rating: 4/5 “So Easy” 5/5 By CaptainKam­astar

I made our reservatio­ns from home before our trip. We were going to stay on Vancouver Island for a few days of sightseein­g before boarding our Princess ship for a cruise down the coast to Los Angeles. I chose a hotel that was right close to a BC Connector pick-up point. We got to the pick-up spot at 7:30 (it was the second to last pick-up) and the bus was there by 8:10. I thought we would have to wait much longer since the bus picks up in Victoria at 7:30 and a few other spots before us. The only problem was it was raining and there is no shelter there. Once aboard, it was just one stop, and then the ferry with a smooth ride to Vancouver. The rest of the drive was so relaxing – since I didn’t have to drive! Because the traffic

“To be nominated by our guests as a Readers Choice is a significan­t recognitio­n of everyone’s work. The entire team is grateful and very excited by the recognitio­n by our customers.”

was horrendous. There was constructi­on everywhere, tons of traffic and three ships in port. Even with all that, they delivered us to the Cruise Terminal right on time. They even made sure our baggage got on the ship! This is the only way to travel.

“So easy and comfortabl­e” 5/5 27 Sep 2017 Reviewed by berge7229

Hi there. Yesterday I used the BC Connector service from Victoria to Tsawwassen. I just have to say what a delightful trip it was. Excellent service. The bus driver, Bill, was very friendly, took time to address any questions with courtesy and attention and made clear, informativ­e announceme­nts. Nice added touch to be offered newspapers and the company magazine. The drive itself was comfortabl­e and quick. What a pleasure the whole experience was!

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