BC Ferries reduces food service options even further to promote social distancing

BC Ferries has made further reductions to its food and beverage options onboard its ferry vessels and at terminal facilities in an effort to promote social distancing during the COVID-19 pandemic.

A minimal level of food and retail services has been retained, adding to the recent closure of the Pacific Buffet restaurant that is available on select large vessels.

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At the moment, only grab-and-go prepackaged items are available through designated outlets — either the Coastal Cafe or Coastal Cafe Express and Lands End Cafe.

These outlets are not serving hot food at this time, and all other food outlets have suspended their services until further notice.

Beverages that are available include coffee, tea, and fountain drinks, but customers are being asked to only use provided disposable beverage containers. Single-use disposable cutlery will also be available.

Onboard amenities that have been closed entail the Passages Gift Shop, SeaWest Lounge, Arbutus Coffee Bar, Sitka Coffee Place, Kids Zone play area, and Video Zone arcade.

The only ferry routes that continue to provide hot food services are the northern services, which have lengthy sailing durations.

The ferry corporation has also enhanced its cleaning and disinfecting measures, and worked with federal regulator Transport Canada to temporarily allow passengers to remain in their vehicles on enclosed car decks.

Passengers using the ferry services are advised to check the BC Ferries website for the latest updated schedules. Some sailings have been cancelled due to falling traffic demand.

With coronavirus on the rise, BC public health authorities are reminding individuals who attend events and large gatherings to monitor their health for signs and symptoms of COVID-19. And if you’re not feeling well, they recommend staying home at this time. Also, due to unexpected cancellations, please check the event you plan to attend is still taking place. Keep up with COVID-19 news here.