As a commercial boat operator, we are licenced by Parks Canada to offer a water taxi shuttle service within the Gulf Islands National Marine Park Reserve. Most people take advantage of our convenient service to enjoy Portland Island and Sidney Spit for afew hours or days. Our boats are well suited for small groups visiting the island for a brief sunset picnic, a half day hike or a weekend campout.
Once known as Princess Margaret Marine Provincial Park, this semi-wilderness island is one of the natural jewels of the Gulf Islands National Park Reserve. It's a favourite destination for anchored boaters, day hikers and overnight campers.
You can charter one or two of our 12-passenger vessels for groups of up to 24 people.
Departure is most convenient from the Canoe Cove Marina E Dock, located near the BC Ferry Terminal at Swartz Bay. Alternatively, for parties arriving from the Mainland, it's an easy walk to the government dock at Swartz Bay -- and you can save the hassle and cost of bringing your car.
The scenic one-way trip to the island is about 20 minutes. Drop-off and pick-up is either at the dingy dock in Princess Cove, or right on the beach at Shell Beach camping and picnic area.
For example, a hiking group on a typical day trip may wish to depart the marina at 10am, spend 4 hours walking the trails & eating lunch, then return at 2pm.
Parking is free at the marina, with a ticket displayed on vehicle's dash.
The round-trip cost is $26.00 (including tax) per person, minimum of 8 people. For smaller groups, the minimum charge is $208.
You must bring a cell phone for contingencies. Dogs must be on a leash. Drinking water and warm clothing are recommended -- and all your garbage must be carried out.
Many people coming to this beautiful island for camping, hiking and picnics take a scheduled Sidney Spit ferry. This passenger ferry departs daily from Sidney Pier daily, from late June through early September.
But for those desiring an exclusive experience of a romantic walk, sunset picnic and wildlife viewing on a 'Mediterranean-like' sandy beach, we offer a unique water taxi service.
Your skipper guide will take you for a short waterfront tour before arriving at the Spit and simply stepping right onto the secluded beach. A goumet picnic basket, folding chairs and blankets can be arranged, and of course complete with a huge sunset. The boat will return at a mutually-convenient time for your relaxing trip back to Sidney.
Departures are from the Sidney Pier at the foot of Beacon Avenue, or from nearby Port Sidney Marina. Our service is only offered when the Sidney Spit Ferry is not available, such as on those warm summer's evenings, and during the spring and fall months.
The 2010 cost of the guided tour and round-trip is $255 (plus tax), for a group of two to 12 people. Reservations are required.
All prices and schedules are subject to change without notice
