Wow, does that not bring back memoirs. No reservations ( except for assured boarding passes) cash only. To do my job, had to leave Fairfield about 4 35 am ( particularly during the winter schedule ) to make sure I caught the first boat. The vending machines were the only way of getting a coffee or anything else. The Queen class of ferries built in the 60's were standard ( never be standing up with your breakfast or have a simple cup of coffee when the ferry pulled away from the dock) and being on deck through Active Pass blowing their horn which made everyone jump. Happy to say I was one of the first on board the Spirit of Vancouver Island.