BC Ferries says it has been experiencing the busiest summer travel season ever after multiple major routes experienced sailing waits for passengers arriving at terminals without reservations.

On Monday, Aug. 13, BC Ferries saw almost every sailing full by 2 p.m. between the Tsawwassen and Swartz Bay terminals, and sailings between Duke Point and Tsawwassen, and Departure Bay and Horseshoe Bay also sold out multiple sailings, forcing non-reserved customers to endure multiple-sailing waits to cross the Strait of Georgia.

"We're seeing increasingly heavy traffic not only on weekends but also on the Thursday before and the Monday following each summer weekend. This pattern has become more consistent as we progressed through the season," noted an emailed statement from BC Ferries.

To avoid long waits, BC Ferries says passengers should book a spot on the ferry ahead of time and try to travel on off-peak times such as early mornings, late evenings, or weekdays.

"Those without a reservation can still come to the terminals, but should be prepared for longer waits. Checking sailing capacity online at bcferries.com/current-conditions before leaving home is also advised," noted the statement.

Throughout the week, traffic is anticipated to level off, and customers without reservations are experiencing shorter waits compared to Monday.