Sidney, BC.;

The Town of Sidney has learned that Washington State Ferries will not be operating its Sidney-Anacortes route this spring due to a shortage of crew. It is unlikely that the service will be restored for the summer season.

“It is disappointing that this important connection between the Peninsula and the United States will continue to be suspended. The Town was looking forward to celebrating the 100th Anniversary of the ferry service this year with the community of Anacortes, which has been a Sister City to Sidney since 1996,” said Mayor Cliff McNeil Smith. “We recognize that labour shortages are impacting many services and organizations. We remain committed to this ferry route and have heard the same commitment echoed by Washington State Ferries. We are optimistic that the service will return as we emerge from the pandemic.”

The Town of Sidney contracts Washington State Ferries to provide the ferry service through the Town-owned international ferry terminal at Tulista Park.

The ferry service began on a converted kelp carrier at the foot of Beacon Avenue in 1922. The route between Sidney and Anacortes has long supported local tourism benefiting local and regional economies. It also connects friends and families across our shared border.

Media Contact:

Mayor Cliff McNeil-Smith

250-656-1139

mayor@sidney.ca