Portland Island, once called Princess Margaret Marine Provincial Park, is now one of the natural jewels of the Gulf Islands National Park Reserve. This semi-wilderness island is a favourite destination for anchored boaters, day hikers and overnight campers.
We, as a commercial boat operator licenced by Parks Canada, provide a water taxi shuttle service to the island. Our convenient service is well suited for small groups visiting the island for a half day hike, a weekend campout, or a brief sunset picnic.
You can charter one or two of our 12-passenger vessels for groups of up to 24 people. Departure is from the Canoe Cove Marina E Dock, located near the BC Ferry Terminal at Swartz Bay.
The scenic one-way trip to the island is about 30 minutes. Drop-off and pick-up is either at the dingy dock in Princess Cove or at the picnic/camp site at Shell Beach.
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. A cell phone is required for contingencies. Dogs must be on a leash. Drinking water and warm clothing must be brought ashore -- and all garbage carried out.
Parking is free at the marina, with a ticket displayed on vehicle's dash.
The round-trip cost is $25.00 (incl.GST) per person, minimum of 8 people.