What was supposed to be a two-hour ferry trip between Nanaimo and Tsawwassen overnight turned into a seven-hour ordeal.
Deborah Marshall with BC Ferries says the Queen of New Westminster left Duke Point at 11:45 last night, but strong winds complicated their arrival.
"The ship's crew did check the weather forecast, but unfortunately the wind did not abate as it was predicted. So the vessel was bound for Tsawwassen. The captain made an attempt to dock, but did abort the landing out of an abundance of caution and waited off of Tsawwassen until the winds came down."
The captain couldn't safely dock until 6:45 this morning -- meaning the 21 passengers onboard spent seven hours aboard the ferry.
Marshall says some of the stranded passengers took advantage of meals being offered by catering staff while others chose to catch up on some sleep.
The Queen of New Westminster's first round-trip between Tsawwassen and Nanaimo this morning has been cancelled, and delays are expected on the route early today due to increased traffic.