Victoria Clipper suspends service until April 2021

SEATTLE — Clipper Vacations has extended the suspension of its popular passenger-only ferry from Seattle to Victoria, British Columbia until April 30, 2021 due to the coronavirus.

Officials said the U.S.-Canadian border suspension, Canada’s mandatory 14-day self-quarantine restriction for international travelers and “overall coronavirus uncertainty” eliminated the potential for summer or fall travel and forced them to suspend service.

Officials said the loss of summer operations makes year-round operations unrealistic.

“We wholeheartedly agree with the steps and health precautions taken by Canadian and U.S. government officials to date to reduce the risk of coronavirus transmission through nonessential travel,” said David Gudgel, CEO of Clipper. “Our intent in suspending operations is to hopefully allow ample time to pass so that we may return to service next spring when travel across the border is safe and welcomed once again.”

Clipper’s Canadian union employees will continue on temporary layoff into the anticipated return to service date of April 30, 2021, officials said.

Clipper’s Seattle-based employees will be furloughed until the company’s return to service with minimal staff working to maintain business continuity.

When running, the Victoria Clipper departs from Pier 69 downtown Seattle and arrives at the Belleville Terminal in downtown Victoria. The trip takes about 2 hours and 45 minutes.

Cox Media Group