Mechanical Issues Cause Ferry Cancellations on Departure Bay Route
On February 9, 2026, multiple sailings of the ferry ‘Queen of Oak Bay’ were cancelled due to a mechanical problem with the clutch system. The issue affected several scheduled trips between Departure Bay and Horseshoe Bay, disrupting travel plans for many passengers. The cancellations included the 6:15 a.m., 11:05 a.m., and 4:00 p.m. sailings from Horseshoe Bay, as well as the 8:40 a.m., 1:20 p.m., and 6:20 p.m. departures from Nanaimo’s Departure Bay.
Despite the cancellations, the 8:25 p.m. sailing from Horseshoe Bay to Langdale and the 9:35 p.m. return trip from Langdale to Horseshoe Bay were initially at risk. However, these sailings were reinstated thanks to the availability of an alternate vessel on the route. A technician was dispatched to the ‘Queen of Oak Bay’ to investigate the clutch system issue and ensure the ferry could resume normal operations.
For travelers seeking alternatives, the Duke Point-Tsawwassen route remained operational, providing a viable option during this disruption. Passengers were encouraged to check schedules and prepare for potential delays as the situation developed.
Previous Mechanical Challenges for Queen of Oak Bay
This is not the first time the ‘Queen of Oak Bay’ has faced mechanical difficulties. On March 31, 2025, the ferry experienced a steering system issue, leading to the cancellation of two sailings. The breakdown occurred just outside Nanaimo’s Departure Bay. Affected sailings included the 8:25 a.m. departure from Departure Bay and the 10:40 a.m. sailing from Horseshoe Bay. After repairs, services resumed later that day around 1:00 p.m., minimizing disruption for travelers.
These mechanical concerns highlight the ongoing challenges faced by ferry services in the region. While most operations run smoothly, occasional technical failures can lead to significant impacts on scheduling and passenger travel. Authorities are urged to maintain rigorous maintenance protocols to prevent similar incidents in the future.
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