Those looking for a way around the city on New Year's Eve will have a cheap option with local transit.
TransLink has announced SkyTrain, SeaBus and bus trips around Metro Vancouver will be free on Dec. 31 starting at 5 p.m.
"During these hours, fare gates at SkyTrain and SeaBus stations will remain open and customers will not be required to tap Compass Cards or use other payment methods," says the local transit operator in a press release.
Since New Year's Eve is a Sunday, the transit system will be running an altered Sunday schedule, with more than 30 additional buses, extra service on some routes, extended SkyTrain service, and extended SeaBus service.
The last SkyTrains leaving Waterfront on Dec. 31 will be as follows:
- Last train from Waterfront to King George at 2:16 a.m.
- Last train from Waterfront to Lougheed at 2:11 a.m.
- Last train from Waterfront to Production Way–University at 1:40 a.m.
- Last train from Waterfront to YVR–Airport Station at 2:05 a.m.
- Last train from Waterfront to Richmond–Brighouse at 2:15 a.m.
SeaBus boats will be running every 15 minutes until 1:22 a.m. and then every 30 minutes, with the last one leaving Waterfront Station at 2:22 a.m. The West Coast Express will not be travelling.
After regular service shuts down, NightBus routes will continue. Free service will end at 5 a.m. on Jan. 1.
Those using transit before the free service begins are reminded to tap out, even after 5 p.m.
"Customers who begin trips before 5 p.m. are advised to tap out as normal to ensure they’re charged the correct fare," states TransLink.
