Sailing Away
On deck with B.C. Ferries
Sailing through the glorious Gulf Islands
is always a special experience.
Float planes, private boats or water taxis are all ways to reach the Gulf Islands, but most people arriving on foot, in a vehicle or on a bicycle must do so by sailing with B.C. Ferries.
Now known as British Columbia Ferry Services Inc., the province’s ferry corporation was created by the provincial government in 1960 with two ships operating between Tsawwassen and Swartz Bay. With 35 vessels now serving 47 ports of call, it’s one of the largest ferry companies in the world.
B.C. Ferries’ website — at www.bcferries.com — has complete schedule and fare information, and for many routes can advise if the ferries are sailing on time.
Reservations are taken on the Vancouver Island-Mainland ferry routes and the Tsawwassen-Gulf Islands route. They are recommended during the busy summer season and can be made online at the above website, by calling toll-free in North America 1-888-223-3779; or by punching in *BCF (*223) on Rogers or Telus Mobility networks. From outside North America, call 1-250-386-3431.
Reservations are not taken on the shorter routes between Vancouver Island and the various Gulf Islands, so travellers should arrive at ferry terminals at least 30 minutes ahead of scheduled sailing times during the busiest travel periods.
Ferry schedules are available on all vessels, at terminals and tourist information centres.