Traveling via BC Ferries with an e-bike is a seamless way to explore the islands, but recent policy changes and the unique layout of ferry decks require some preparation. At Rize, we’ve taken our bikes across the Georgia Strait countless times, and we’ve learned that a little planning goes a long way in ensuring a smooth sailing.
As of late 2025, specific safety regulations regarding lithium batteries have changed how you manage your bike on board. Here is what you need to know.
The Big Change: No Onboard Charging
Under updated Transport Canada regulations and BC Ferries policy, charging e-bikes is strictly prohibited at all terminals and on board all vessels. This is due to the fire risks associated with lithium-ion batteries in confined marine environments.
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Rize Pro Tip: We always recommend ensuring your bike is at 100% before you leave the house. If you are doing a long-range trip (e.g., Tsawwassen to Duke Point), consider our Dual Battery setup or carrying a spare battery in your pannier. Since you won't be able to "top up" during the 95-minute sailing, having that extra juice is the best way to ensure you can reach your island destination without range anxiety.
Boarding & Fees
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Cost: There is no extra fee for an e-bike; it is included in your standard foot passenger fare.
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Reservations: You do not need a reservation for a bike. You simply show up and check in at the foot passenger ticket booth.
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The Process: You will typically be directed to board through the vehicle deck. To keep yourself and other passengers safe, do not ride your bike on the ramps or on the car deck; please dismount and walk your bike.
Securing Your Bike on the Car Deck
Once on board, you are responsible for securing your bike. BC Ferries does not provide specialized e-bike "lockers," and car deck space varies by ship.
1. Find the Bike Racks
Most "Spirit Class" and "Coastal Class" vessels have designated bike racks located at the front or rear of the lower car deck.
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Heads Up: These racks are often designed for standard tires. If you’re riding a Rize Blade or Liberty with 4-inch fat tires, they may not fit into the narrow slots. If that's the case, don't worry—crew members will usually direct you to lean your bike against the yellow bulkhead railings.
2. Use "Block and Lean"
The car deck can vibrate or tilt during rough crossings.
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The Strategy: BC Ferries provides wooden blocks near the motorcycle and bicycle parking areas. We always place a block under the frame or pedal to prevent the bike from rolling during the voyage.
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Orientation: Always park your bike perpendicular to the ship's length (sideways) to minimize the effect of the ship’s pitching.
3. Locking for Security
While the car deck is a "closed deck" and generally safe while moving, it’s best practice to be secure during the busy loading and unloading process.
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Locking: Use a heavy-duty U-lock to secure your frame to the ship's railing or the rack.
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Lighten the Load: We suggest taking your battery with you to the upper passenger lounge. This reduces the bike's weight (making it more stable on the rack) and makes the bike a much less attractive target for any opportunistic theft.
Winter & Weather Considerations
If you are traveling in the winter, the car deck—especially on open-ended vessels—is subject to salt spray.
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Protection: If you remove your battery for the trip upstairs, cover your electrical terminals with a plastic cap or a small bag. This simple step goes a long way in preventing corrosion from the salty sea air.
Prohibited Items
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Damaged Batteries: Safety first. If your battery casing is cracked or leaking fluid, the Vessel Master has the right to refuse boarding.
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Gas-Powered Kits: Unlike your electric Rize bike, bicycles with internal combustion engine "add-on" kits are treated as dangerous goods and face much stricter boarding requirements.
Disclaimer: Regulations and policies regarding e-bikes on BC Ferries are subject to change without notice. Information provided is based on current 2025 guidelines. Rize Bikes is not affiliated with BC Ferries. We strongly recommend checking the official BC Ferries Cyclists Page for the most up-to-date travel requirements before your departure.
