Lasqueti ferry update - important information

from Harry (but in my words):

While the old/new smaller ferry is on our route, these conditions will be in effect:

Maximum 40 passengers. Get there early, especially for the 8am ferry on Mondays and Thursdays, or plan to use a less busy run. Boarding passes will not be put out.

There is less space for luggage, groceries, etc. and no covered space protected from rain and weather. Loading and unloading is more difficult, as it's not walk-on, walk-off.

Maximum three totes per person.

Folding dollies are fine. Non-folding ones are discouraged.

No construction materials - plywood, lumber, etc. - will be carried.

Unattended groceries will be restricted to the 9:45 ferry run.

Waterproof your luggage and groceries. Pet owners are warned that their pets, as well as everything else, will be exposed to the weather and the spray.

Expect that we will have this ferry for two months.

from Elgin (marine superintendent of WPM):

This is the first major refit since the Centurion VII was built and went into service 29 years ago. The replacement vessel, now named Hollyburn, used to be the Centurion IV, and was our ferry for several years, 30 years ago. The Centurion VII was due for inspection October 20, 2014. Hopefully this can be done before it returns to service. Elgin asks "Please bear with me as we make the vessel serviceable, comfortable and safe for the future. Again I regret short notice of vessel exchange and we will keep the Island informed of refit progress, upgrades and return date."