If you want to get to or from Sandspit, you'd better get to the ferry terminal early. Otherwise, you'll be one of many in a long line and there may not be a spot for you on the boat."This is happening because BC Ferries and the province are squeezing the same number of passengers onto fewer sailings," said Area E Director Evan Putterill.Ridership on the Skidegate-Alliford Bay route is down three percent from this time last year, he said, but there's been a 30 percent decrease in sailings."It's quite busy but it's all happening as predicted," Mr. Putterill said.The traffic is composed of Air Canada travellers, Copper Bay fishers, and an increase of commuters, among others, he said."Typically the Copper Bay people would leave on the latest ferries and the Air Canada people would take ferries in the afternoon," said Mr. Putterill, "But now all of those people are on the same ferries."He said the topic of the Copper Bay fishing season was brought to the province during decision-making, but it didn't seem to make much difference when reducing sailings.All things considered, Mr. Putterill thinks the Kwuna crew is to be commended."The crew is doing a really good job," he said, "They are working hard and doing their best to squeeze as many cars on as they can."