The Steamship Authority announced it will be hosting two virtual information sessions focused on the waitlist and standby lines, topics that have become a source of frustration for some Islanders.
The ferry line had recently made proposals to amend how the waitlist and standby line works, but Islanders have objected, and said it would be too restrictive and did not reflect the flexibility needed for some people to get on and off the Vineyard. The potential changes were a part of the SSA’s ongoing efforts to replace its reservation system.
“The ultimate goal for both the waitlist and standby programs is to make managing the necessities of life easier for island residents while delivering an improved customer experience and more efficient operations,” General Manager Alex Kryska said in a press release. “We know flexibility is key for Islanders, and we have and will continue to keep that top-of-mind during this process.”
According to a press release from the ferry line, team members who are leading the reservation system revamp, called the True North Initiative, and Steamship personnel will be available to “discuss the process for both the waitlist and standby and to address misconceptions about the new reservation system.”
The information session will be held on Zoom from 5:30 to 7:30 pm on Wednesday, Feb. 11, and on Thursday, Feb. 12. The release states the sessions will address both the Vineyard and Nantucket routes, and the “opening presentation will be the same at each session.” Those who wish to attend can do so by visiting bit.ly/TrueNorthinfosession at the time of the sessions, which will also be recorded and posted on the SSA YouTube page.
Those who attend will be able to ask questions about the functionality of the reservation system and view examples of booking screens made by E-Dea, the firm contracted to build the Steamship’s reservation system.
For more information on the project, visit steamshipauthority.com/TrueNorth.
