B.C. Ferries prepares for busy summer as it maintains aging fleet [Video]

Officials with B.C. Ferries say they are preparing for the upcoming May long weekend and a busy summer season ahead.

B.C. Ferries called last summer their busiest season ever, and said they’re expecting even higher demand this year as they deal with an increasingly complex operating environment.

“We are working with aging vessels and terminal infrastructure, and this means that we have to plan for worst-case scenarios to protect service,” said Stephen Jones, vice-president of engineering with B.C. Ferries.  

“While we can’t eliminate all risks, we are working hard behind the scenes to keep people and goods moving … We are prepared for summer, we’re focusing on delivering for the people who count on us, but we are transparent about our limits.”

B.C. Ferries said they will work on maintaining vessels, adjust sailing schedules and hire 600 seasonal employees.

Jones said there will be four new diesel hybrid vessels starting …