To ensure ongoing safe and reliable operation of the Kootenay Lake Ferry during spring low-water levels, the Ministry of Transportation and Infrastructure is implementing the following service changes.  

March 10 to March 23:

• MV Osprey 2000 in service with a reduced weight load
• Potential for increased wait times during busy sailings

March 24 to April 12:

• MV Balfour in service
• Vehicle capacity reduced to 28 vehicles
• Potential for increased wait times during busy sailings

April 13 to April 20:

• MV Osprey 2000 back in service, with reduced weight load
• Potential for increased wait times during busy sailings

Depending on the number and weight of commercial vehicles boarding the vessel during this time, the number of vehicles may need to be reduced. In some cases, this might result in a sailing wait for heavier vehicles.

To prevent future service interruptions, the Province will be performing selective dredging in the shallow areas of the channel near the Balfour Terminal in fall 2019.

The ministry apologizes for any inconvenience this causes. Travellers are suggested to:

• go to DriveBC.ca for up-to-the-minute information, ferry schedules, delays and to see cameras;
• check the overhead messaging boards in Nelson and Creston;
• plan to arrive early for the ferry;
• allow time for a potential sailing wait;
• consider off-peak crossing times before 9 a.m. or after 5 p.m.; and
• help spread the word to friends and family about these changes.