B.C. May long weekend: travel survival tips
CBC News | Posted: May 19, 2017 5:03 PM | Last Updated: May 19, 2017
Before heading out, make sure to check extra ferry sailings, border wait times
The Victoria Day long weekend is always a hectic time for getting around the province — but planning ahead can ensure your travel goes as smoothly as possible. Here's what you need to know:
Extra BC Ferries sailings
BC Ferries is adding 89 extra sailings for its most popular routes over Victoria Day long weekend, with extra services offered from May 18th to May 23rd.
The added routes include:
- 60 extra sailings on the Tsawwassen – Swartz Bay.
- 15 extra sailings on the Horseshoe Bay – Departure Bay.
- 10 extra sailings on the Horseshoe Bay – Langdale.
- 4 extra sailings on the Earls Cove – Saltery Bay.
...but you should still expect wait times
According to B.C. Ferries the most popular travel times for the long weekend are expected to be Friday afternoon, and early Saturday morning, with most people leaving from Tsawwassen and Horseshoe Bay terminals.
To avoid getting stuck in rush hour ferry traffic, book your reservation in advance, show up early, and monitor traffic levels on the BC Ferries' website.
If you're more of a Twitter person, the BC Ferries account also provides live updates.
Borders busy
According to the Canada Border Services Agency, last year approximately 88,308 vehicles entered Canada through the five Lower Mainland border crossings during the Victoria Day long weekend.
In anticipation of higher than usual crossing traffic, the CBSA is advising travellers to plan ahead.
Here's what they recommend:
- Check border wait times on the CanBorder app or on the CBSA website.
- Ensure your travel documents are in order before you head out.
- Be aware of exemption limits if you plan on shopping south of the border.