Galiano Island is the Gateway to the Southern Gulf Islands - beautiful pristine islands off the coast of British Columbia, Canada. The closest island to Vancouver, we are easily accessible from the mainland and local islands by ferry, boat or floatplane.
From Vancouver/Tsawwassen
Driving / Ferry: From Vancouver, take BC-99 South, then BC-17 South to the Tsawwassen ferry terminal. From there, we're a short ride away, and often the first stop. It's a small ferry, so be sure to reserve a spot for your vehicle. Visit BC Ferries or call 1-888-223-3779 (1-888-BCFERRY).
Air: Floatplanes travel daily between Downtown Vancouver or the Vancouver International Airport, and Galiano's Montague Harbour. Visit Seair Seaplanes for information.
From Victoria/Swartz Bay
Driving / Ferry: Easily reached from Victoria International Airport, or from Victoria, take Highway 17 to the Swartz Bay ferry terminal, and follow signs to the Gulf Island ferry. Vehicle reservations are not available, so arrive early. Visit BC Ferries or call 1-888-223-3779 (1-888-BCFERRY).
Air: Travel to Victoria's International Airport means an easy connection and scenic flight to Galiano Island via Pat Bay Air chartered floatplanes. Or a short taxi or rental car ride to the Swartz Bay Ferry terminal (see above).
From Seattle & Bellingham
Driving / Ferry / Blaine border: Take the 1-5 North towards Vancouver, BC. After crossing the border the route becomes Highway 99. Take Highway 17 turn-off and follow the signs south to the Tsawwassen ferry terminal. From there, we are a short ride away, and often the first stop. Schedules are infrequent (usually twice per day) so be sure to reserve a spot for your vehicle, and time your driving to allow for border crossings and travel time Visit BC Ferries or call 1-888-223-3779 (1-888-BCFERRY).
Air: Travel from Seattle can be a scenic flight via scheduled or chartered floatplane. Visit Kenmore Air for flights to Galiano Island. Bring your passport! A valid passport is required to cross any Canadian/USA border.
From Port Angeles
Driving / Ferry / Port Angeles: From Port Angeles, take the Black Ball Ferry Line to Victoria, BC. From Victoria, take Highway 17 to the Swartz Bay ferry terminal. Follow signs to Gulf Island ferry. For Port Angeles ferry information, visit Black Ball Ferry Line or call 360-457-4491. For Victoria/Swartz Bay ferry information, visit BC Ferries or call 1-888-223-3779.
Boat Access
Marina: The marina at Montague Harbour Marina offers extensive moorage with power and a gas dock; their restaurant and several small shops are seasonal. The marina can get crowded during the high season, so it is wise to book ahead. Docks A public dock is located near Montague Marina and another in Montague Provincial Park. While mooring buoys cannot be reserved, the harbour is well sheltered should you need to anchor.
There are several public and private docks available for boaters: Whaler Bay and Sturdies Bay Government docks are both on the South end of the island, within walking distance of Sturdies Bay Village, and are available year-round. A seasonal dock at the Galiano Inn is reservable by the public. There is also a Government dock mid-island at Retreat Cove, and one at the North end, at Spanish Hills.