Newcastle Island ferry service resumes

NANAIMO – Deal struck with Protection Island Ferries to provide service to provincial park on temporary basis.

Ferry service to Newcastle Island will be provided by Protection Island Ferries on a temporary basis.

Snuneymuxw First Nation, which operates the provincial marine park, posted a notice on its website Sunday advising of a change in schedule.

The ferry leaves Newcastle dock every hour, beginning at 9 a.m., arriving at Maffeo Sutton dock at about half past the hour. The last ferry off Newcastle is 7 p.m., but will vary depending on overflows from the island.

No service is scheduled between Protection Island and Newcastle Island.

Cost is $5 each way for passengers aged 7-64 years old. The ferry is free for children under six and seniors over 65, with no charges for bikes or pets.

Service previously provided by Nanaimo Harbour Ferry ended Friday at the last scheduled sailing.

On its website, the ferry company stated it was unable to come to an agreement with Snuneymuxw First Nation on ferry service to Newcastle Island.

Newcastle Island is located in Nanaimo Harbour. For more information, please visit www.newcastleisland.ca.

Nanaimo News Bulletin