BC FERRY FAQs

Navigating the Southern Gulf Islands smoothly starts with the right tools:

• The Experience Card: Purchase an Experience Card at any BC Ferries ticket booth for significant fare discounts on routes to and from Swartz Bay (SB) and Village Bay (VB), and most other minor Southern Gulf Island routes.
• Create a BC Ferries Account: Register online to manage bookings, change reservations, and sign up for Service Notices to receive alerts regarding sailing delays or cancellations.
• Stay Informed: Check bcferries.com and use the Current Conditions page to see capacity, delays, and real-time vessel tracking, or download the BC Ferries Mobile App. You can also follow the Mayne Community Page at bcferriesprojects.ca/mayne-island and use Emmanuel Borsboom’s schedule tool at ferries.borsboom.io.
• Always Have a Backup Plan: Keep an overnight bag, snacks, and water with you in case of service interruptions due to mechanical issues, weather, or staffing.
• The "Night Before" Rule: If you have an early morning appointment or flight, consider traveling the evening before to avoid stress.

Is this a reservable route? No, this route is first-come, first-served.

Timing & Tips: Arrive early. For the busiest sailings (such as the weekday 7:05 am direct sailing from VB to SB or the return afternoon sailing at 4:20 pm), drivers should be at the terminal at least 45 minutes prior. Foot passengers and cyclists have more flexibility but should still aim to arrive 10 minutes ahead at Village Bay and 15 minutes at Swartz Bay. Please check BC Ferries website for uptodate schedules as they do change seasonally.

Is this a reservable route? Yes, this route is 100% reservable for vehicles and foot passengers. You will definitely want to make reservations because if a sailing is fully booked, there is no allowance for additional vehicles or passengers.

Alternative Options: If you cannot book a direct sailing, you can book a thru-fare via Swartz Bay.

Medical Emergencies: If you have an important medical appointment and need to get to the mainland on a fully booked ferry, call BC Ferries Customer Service at 1-888-223-3779.

• Seniors Discount: BC senior passengers (passengers only, not vehicles) travel for free on all BC Ferries routes Monday through Thursday.
• MIALS Community Bus: For trips to Sidney or Victoria, the Mayne Island Assisted Living bus goes every Tuesday with assured loading on direct morning and afternoon sailings. Call 250-213-6191 to book a seat at a nominal cost.
• Travel Assistance Program (TAP BC): If you are traveling to Swartz Bay or Tsawwassen for specialized medical appointments or diagnostic procedures, your fare may be covered through the provincial government's TAP BC program.
• Travel with Patience: Ferry capacity is reached by the number of passengers on board, not just vehicle spaces. Terminal staff and crews do their best—please travel with patience and a smile!