The loss of a major Spirit Class ferry for repairs is being felt on the BC Ferries Tsawwassen – Swartz Bay route Thursday.

BC Ferries is reporting multiple sailing waits on either side, with the next available standby space not free until after 5 p.m.

The ferry corporation says as the Spirit of Vancouver Island was moved to drydock after Thanksgiving, they are down to two vessels on the route.

With the Coastal Inspiration also out for engine repair until December, there are no spare ferries to fill in.

When announced at the end of last month that the Spirit would be heading in for repairs, the BC Ferry and Marine Workers Union president said impacts were likely to be felt for folks travelling to and from Victoria, Nanaimo, and Langdale for at least a week.

Eric McNeely acknowledges that staff and passengers are frustrated as the ferry service has experienced rough waters this year.

“You would expect a highway to be open all the time and when you look at the ferry system as a marine highway, it’s falling short on a few fronts,” he said at the time.

You can also listen live to CityNews 1130 every 10 minutes on the ones for traffic and ferry updates, follow us on X @CityNewsTraffic, and subscribe to breaking news alerts sent directly to your inbox.