Ferry Schedules

Hopefully you've got enough time to visit Salt Spring a little early or stay a little later than the retreat to explore and relax! But if you have limited time away, you'll want to keep an eye on some  transport logisitics.

Here's a summary of common ferry routes from Vancouver Island and the Lower Mainland to help you plan your journey. Please note that we are meeting up over a holiday weekend, and a reservation at least 30 days out is highly recommended.

Reservations through BC Ferries aren't available yet.

We'll remind you when this changes!

From Vancouver Island

Two routes connect Vancouver Island to Salt Spring Island, and bear in mind each of these terminals are about a 20 minute drive from Ganges.

 

If you're departing from Swartz Bay, the 11:00am ferry is a quick 35 minute sail to Fulford Harbour.  (This route is non-bookable - plan accordingly and maybe leave early on this holiday weekend!)

 

The ferry from Crofton docks at Vesuvius Bay. You'll want to make sure you're on the 10:10am sailing at the latest.

 

There are multiple afternoon sailing options for each of these routes for your return trip.

From the lower mainland

Here's where it may get tricky. While there's a milk-run  ferry route from Tsawwassen to Long Harbour on Salt Spring Island, it makes several stops and arrives a bit late for a timely retreat start time. 

 

We recommend instead the 9:00am ferry from Tsawwassen to Schwartz Bay, and then a quick transfer to the 11:00am Fulford Harbour sailing. The time-sensitive traveler may take the 7:00am ferry to be safe...

 

Pro tip: when booking this route, only pay the reservation fee, not the whole ticket price. When you get to the ticket booth, request to change the reservation to a “thru fare” all the way to Fulford Harbor. This will get you a little placard for your windshield labeled TF which will put you on a quick exit deck/line in the ferry.

 

Or you know what? Travel Thursday and enjoy Salt Spring!

 

The 3:30pm sailing on Saturday from Long Harbour can get you back to Tsawwassen by 5:45.

Important reminders

Always check the BC Ferries website (bcferries.com) for the most current schedules, reservation information, and any travel advisories. Booking in advance is highly recommended, especially over a holiday weekend like we are planning, to ensure you secure your preferred sailing time.

 

Since we're planning for a 1:00pm start time on Friday - there is little time for dilly-dallying!