Sidney Spit passenger ferry opens for the season

The passenger-only ferry to one of southern Vancouver Island’s favourite daytrip destinations has reopened for the season.

The Sidney Spit Ferry re-opened with online booking May 21.

The spit, at the north end of Sidney Island, is five kilometres from Vancouver Island community of Sidney.

Part of the Gulf Islands National Park Reserve, the spit is a sandy, narrow stretch of land perfect for picnicking and exploring.

Walk-in camping at Sidney Spit is available through Parks Canada from May 15 to Sept. 30, with wheelbarrows available at the main dock to transport camping gear. Parks Canada photo

At approximately 400 hectares, the park occupies about one-third of Sidney Island, with several hiking trails dispersed throughout the park. Walk-in camping is also available, with reservations through Parks Canada. The 29 sites are open annually from May 15 to Sept. 30, with wheelbarrows available at the main dock to transport camping gear.

Located on the edge of the Pacific Flyway, Sidney Spit’s tidal flats and salt marshes are also popular with shorebirds during the spring and fall bird migrations.

The passenger ferry is the only way visitors can reach the spit, unless they have their own boat. The 40-foot ferry is a former Canadian Coast Guard vessel that offers covered seating and extra dry deck space for camping and picnic gear.

The ferry runs Saturdays and Sundays through June 30, then daily from July 1 to Sept. 7. Visit sidneyspitferry.com to book your trip.

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