Some motorists frustrated with P.E.I. ferry wait times
'Just get in the lineup and take your chances.'
Even though motorists were told to be prepared for delays while waiting to board the MV Confederation ferry, some say the wait has been longer than expected.
"They didn't tell us very much actually. They just said that some campers wait up to 11 hours. So they couldn't guarantee us we get on this boat or any boat. Just get in the lineup and take your chances," said Ken Fraser sitting in his vehicle in line on Monday.
The MV Confederation is the only ferry providing service from Wood Islands, P.E.I., to Caribou, N.S. The other ferry — the MV Holiday Island — is undergoing repairs with no date set for its return to service.
Northumberland Ferries says it is trying to accommodate everyone.
The number of ferry trips has increased and start earlier on weekdays. But Northumberland says the situation is likely going to continue for the rest of the busy summer season.
Only cars can make reservations
Motorists have also been making reservations for about 160 spaces per trip. A second deck has been added to the ferry to accommodate more vehicles.
But those options are only available for car drivers. High-sided vehicles, such as trucks and RVs, do not have the option to make a reservation.
So, it's too frustrating to sit here all day, especially in the heat.- John van Ouwerkerk
Some truck drivers say they are reducing the number of trips in a week because of the cost of waiting in line.
"I got here last Wednesday at [8:25 a.m.] and I got a boat at 4: 30 [p.m.]. So, it's too frustrating to sit here all day, especially in the heat," said truck driver John van Ouwerkerk.
"I know they have to keep the cars moving ... [But] I think they could accommodate us a little better."
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With files from Nancy Russell