A Whistler-based bus company that had already planned to run daily buses between Vancouver and Whistler during the 2010 Winter Olympics last week added a Horseshoe Bay stop to its itinerary making it more convenient for those coming from the Sunshine Coast and Vancouver Island to enjoy the Games.
Officials with Transportation Whistler, which runs the Whistler Shuttle, announced on Friday, Nov. 6 the addition of a Horseshoe Bay run to its schedule. Six daily runs in each direction between Horseshoe Bay and Whistler are planned, leaving as early as 7:10 a.m. and returning as late as 11 p.m.
Company president Jack Crompton said Transportation Whistler has been working with Vancouver 2010 Games organizers and others to incorporate such a service into the overall plan to get Games guests from the Lower Mainland to Whistler and back. The idea for the Horseshoe Bay service, though, originated with Sunshine Coast accommodation providers.
"We weren't originally going to do it, but we had a whole bunch of Sunshine Coast businesses come to us and ask, 'Why are you bypassing Horseshoe Bay?'" Crompton said.
He said Transportation Whistler officials recently received the OK from B.C. Ferries to provide the service from just outside the Horseshoe Bay terminal.
"We're excited. Horseshoe Bay is a big deal," Crompton said.
"This service is really the final piece of the puzzle for many accommodation providers on the Sunshine Coast," added Celia Robben, president of the Sunshine Coast Bed & Breakfast and Cottage Owners Association. "Being able to offer transportation from the ferry directly to Whistler allows our guests to access everything the Olympics has to offer."
The Games-time Whistler Shuttle service should also be a boon to Whistler businesses, Crompton said. The last Olympic Bus Network bus leaving the venues is set to depart two or three hours from the completion of events; the Whistler Shuttle gives guests the option of staying in Whistler to enjoy the medal ceremonies and other festivities here, he said.
"I just want people here in Whist-ler. That's my goal," Crompton said.
Cost of the shuttle service is $35 each way or $70 roundtrip if booked by Dec. 31. For information, visit www.ridebooker.com/shuttle.
"This is the cost-effective and flexible way for communities like Nanaimo and the Sunshine Coast to experience the medals ceremonies, cultural events and incredible Olympic atmosphere that will be Whistler during the Games," added Dave Clark, Tourism Whistler, senior manager of visitor services.
