The launch of the Nanaimo-Vancouver fast ferry service, initially planned for Monday, August 14th, has encountered delays. All sailings for that day and the following day were canceled, along with half of the sailings until the end of the month.
Hullo, the ferry service provider, released a statement on Monday evening announcing the suspension of all sailings until Wednesday, August 16th. This suspension is in place to allow for an evaluation of the service's operations.
According to the press release, the company is taking a careful and methodical approach to ensure the long-term safety and dependability of the ferry service. Rupesh Amin, co-founder of Hullo, emphasized that new operations require an initial adjustment period to establish systems and procedures that ensure stability over time. The company aims to use this time to enhance various processes for the well-being and safety of its passengers.
In an earlier statement released on Monday, Hullo attributed the initial cancellations to windy seas and a power outage on the previous night that might have affected their systems. However, the most recent release outlines a revised temporary launch schedule, indicating the cancellation of the first and last sailings of each day until August 30th. The adjusted plans from August 16th to 30th include departures from Nanaimo at 10:00 a.m. and 4:30 p.m., and from Vancouver at noon and 6:30 p.m. Hullo's customer service will get in touch with passengers holding tickets for the affected sailings to provide assistance.
Alastair Caddick, CEO of Hullo, expressed gratitude for the support and patience shown by passengers. He conveyed the company's commitment to becoming not only a transportation provider but also a reliable and trusted presence within the community. Caddick further stated the company's eagerness to soon welcome passengers on board, assuring them of a journey characterized by safety and exceptional service.