When should I plan to arrive for my ferry?

That’s a tough one to answer, as it will all depend on how many other people want to travel at the same time. Ask any islander this question, and they’ll each tell you something different!

If you have an important appointment or travel connection, make sure you arrive at the terminal in plenty of time in case you don’t get on the next departure. During the daytime, ferries leave more frequently, so you shouldn’t have to wait too long. Ferries from Nanaimo are generally less busy in the mornings and late evenings, while ferries leaving Gabriola are quieter in the late afternoons and evenings. There’s a useful Ferry Camera website showing current traffic conditions on the Gabriola Island side.

Walk-on passengers are loaded first at both terminals, so you should arrive at least 10 minutes before sailing time. The cut-off time for passengers and vehicles is 3 minutes before sailing time.

Where do I wait for the ferry?

If you are travelling as a walk-on passenger (or with a bicycle) go straight to the ferry terminal. If you are travelling with a vehicle, this is what you need to know.

Nanaimo Harbour terminal is located in Front Street, and you must follow the signposted route to approach from the south side (Esplanade). At quiet times, you can drive straight into the terminal and purchase your ticket from the attendant before parking where directed. If it’s busy, you may need to join the line-up on Front Street or Port Drive. See this map of the ferry line-up arrangements

Gabriola Island terminal is at Descanso Bay, at the bottom of Ferry Hill on North Road. The line-up for the ferry is in a designated lane up North Road, and round the corner into Taylor Bay Road. There are two signposted turning bays on Taylor Bay Road for you to join the ferry line-up. Don’t cut into any gaps in the line-up, and importantly, DON’T U-TURN anywhere on North Road or Taylor Bay Road.

Is there public transit to the ferry terminals?

Nanaimo Harbour terminal is close to the Downtown Transit Exchange which is served by all Nanaimo Regional Transit routes. Inter-city services from other parts of Vancouver Island terminate at Departure Bay Ferry Terminal. Allow plenty of time for your connection to or from the ferry, as buses will not wait.

On Gabriola Island, the Gabriola Island Community Bus (GERTIE) operates Monday to Saturday daytimes and serves the ferry terminal up to ten times a day. Buses are scheduled to coincide with ferries, but will only wait for the ferry if it is in sight.

Why GERTIE? GERTIE’s name commemorates the beloved figure made by Fogo Art who stood for many years at the entrance to the Gabriola ferry terminal in Nanaimo. Today, it stands for Gabriola’s Environmentally Responsible Trans-Island Express – GERTIE for short!

What happens if the ferry is full?

Ferries from Nanaimo are busier in the afternoon and early evening. Mornings are busier on ferries from Gabriola Island. For more information, check out the Best Times to Travel page on this website. If your ferry is full, you will need to wait for the next one. Make sure you return to your vehicle when the ferry docks and be ready to board when directed by the ferry crew.

Are there any restrictions affecting long vehicles and RVs?

If you are driving a large commercial vehicle or RV and have either a long overhang or restricted ground clearance, there may be times when tidal conditions will prevent you from boarding the ferry, to avoid scraping or getting stuck on the ramp. Take a look at our Tidal Restrictions page before travelling to the terminal, and check with BC Ferries staff when you arrive.

What facilities are there at the ferry terminals?

At both terminals, you’ll find waiting rooms, washrooms and free wi-fi. There are also vending machines and nearby shops at Nanaimo Harbour terminal. Close to the Gabriola Island terminal is the Skol Pub and restaurant and a coffee counter (Window to the Skol) open Monday to Friday, 6-11am.

The ferry terminal on Gabriola Island is unstaffed, and gates will not be opened until the ferry has docked. The waiting room and washrooms are open throughout the operating day.

How long is the ferry crossing?

Crossing time is normally 20 minutes, but may be a little more if weather or vessel traffic conditions dictate.

Where should I park on the ferry?

You will be directed where to park by the ferry crew when you board the ferry. The ship’s first mate is in charge of loading and will direct traffic into different lanes to ensure that the vessel is balanced, and that as many vehicles as possible can be loaded. Safety is the number one consideration. Please follow the directions of officers and crew. If you’re travelling in a car, you may be directed to the upper deck so as to maximize the load. If there is some reason that you can’t possibly go up there then please flash your head lights or talk to the mate.

Vehicles are loaded on a first-come, first-aboard basis, though larger vehicles may be held back until they can be safely accommodated. Unloading is managed by the crew to ensure safety, which may mean that you will not leave in the order that you were loaded. At both ends of the journey, vehicles will wait until walk-on passengers have loaded or unloaded.

What facilities are there on board?

The two regular ferries (Island Gwawis and Island Kwigwis) both have passenger lounges on board, as well as outer deck seating on the upper decks for a great view of the islands. Both ships have vending machines and accessible washrooms.

For more information about safety, amenities and accessibility on board, please visit the BC Ferries website.

What will I find to do on Gabriola Island?

Gabriola Island is a unique place to visit and is home to more than 200 artists and artisans and over 70 art galleries and studios. It’s not all about art though, some of the best things to do on Gabriola Island include exploring the island’s expansive cedar forests, peaceful bays and beaches, and hiking trails. For more information, visit the Hello Gabriola website.

Are there any Fire Hazard restrictions on Gabriola Island?

Gabriola’s current wildfire hazard rating (low, moderate, high, or extreme) is posted on signs around the island: in front of the Gabriola Post Office, on Taylor Bay Road near North Road, and in front of each of the fire halls. Fire hazard ratings determine whether it is safe for residents or visitors to have campfires, bonfires or use barbecues – and also regulate what mechanical equipment can safely be used. The current wildfire hazard rating can be found on the Gabriola Fire Department’s website

As a general guide, small campfires, barbecues, propane fireplaces and charcoal stoves may be used UNLESS THERE IS A BURN BAN IN PLACE. Beach fires are NOT permitted at any time.