Visitors and residents of Richmond, British Columbia will have a new way to explore historic Steveston this summer. The city has revealed a new River Queen Ferry which is set to become Steveston’s first ever heritage ferry/boat tour.
The new ferry will operate temporarily on Sundays, from June 7 until September 6, 2015.
“This is a great opportunity to see Steveston from a different perspective,” said Mayor Malcolm Brodie. “Passengers can view the largest commercial fishing harbour in Western Canada as they glide past Shady Island. They can also hop off the ferry and be taken back into time with visits to Steveston’s two national historic sites – the Gulf of Georgia Cannery and Britannia Shipyards.”
Once aboard, guests can expect the River Queen Ferry to be a fully narrated historical and nature tour which departs from three stops: Fisherman’s Wharf on 2nd Avenue, which leaves on the hour (Vancouver Whale Watch); 3rd Avenue Pier – Dock C, which leaves 15 minutes past the hour (Gulf of Georgia Cannery); and Britannia Shipyards Dock, which leaves 35 minutes past the hour. The first boat will leave at 10 a.m. from Fisherman’s Wharf and the last trip will leave from Britannia’s dock at 4:35 p.m. Round trip will take approximately 55 minutes.
Ticket prices are as follows:
- Adults: $12 return, $6 one way
- Students/Seniors: $10 return, $5 one way
- Children: $8 return, $4 one way (aged four to 12)
Admission is free for children three and under. Tickets can be purchased in advance at the Vancouver Whale Watch office located at 210-12240 2nd Avenue, at their sales kiosk on Fisherman’s Wharf or on the River Queen itself.
photo credit: Cedric Towers
Space is limited as the River Queen only holds up to 12 passengers at a time, and it is not wheelchair accessible due to the historic nature of the vessel. Pets, strollers, heels, food or drinks will not be permitted onboard the vessel at any time. If bad weather conditions occur, the ferry service may close for a period of time.
Featured Image via Kenny Louie