Wolfe Island | Trip Planning

If you are going to visit Wolfe Island this summer, Plan Ahead!

Scroll down for tips to plan your visit Wolfe Island.  

There are public washrooms located at the ferry dock and the Marysville, Tourism Centre.

Driving on the Ferry

The Wolfe Island Ferry is very busy during the summer months with island residents, construction crews and visitors all wanting a spot.

Tips for visitors:

• Avoid peak traffic. Weekends are always very busy, so it’s best to travel during the week. If you go Monday to Friday, try to avoid the ferry between 6:30am - 9:30am and 3pm - 7pm.
• Avoid taking multiple vehicles on the ferry.
• Arrive early for your preferred ferry and be prepared to wait in/near your car.
• When you get to the dock, get in line by pulling into the next available spot.
• Pull all the way up to the front of your spot to ensure all spots and all lanes can be filled.
• Ensure you are in your vehicle and ready to receive direction from deckhands when boarding begins.
• Be patient and kind. The ferry dock is a busy place with lots of activity happening.

Walking on the Ferry

Tips for visitors who are planning to walk on the Wolfe Island Ferry:

• Familiarize yourself with the geography of the island. Most of the shops and places to eat are located in the village of Marysville, which is about 4.5km from where the ferry currently docks (Dawson Point). That’s way too far to walk!

• Over the summer, visitors can take the free shuttle bus that runs between the dock and the village. Find the schedule here. 

• There are some destinations and businesses outside of Marysville. If you’re an avid cyclists, you could rent a bike (or bring your own) to explore beyond the village, but there are no taxis or public transportation options on the island.

• If you just want to experience Marysville, walking on the ferry (with a plan to take the shuttle) is reasonable, but if you want to explore beyond the village you will want a bike or vehicle on the island.
• If you plan to walk on the ferry, you will need to wait in the pedestrian staging area (near the ferry ramp), and wait for the deckhand’s signal before you board. It’s best to wait until all pedestrians on the ferry have disembarked before you board.
• Pedestrians must wear masks at all times on the ferry and remain 2 metres from other passengers.
• If ferry capacity is reached, pedestrians will be turned away for that crossing.

Visiting Marysville

If you’re planning your first-ever visit to the island, you’re probably going to hit Marysville. This charming little island village is a hub of activity built around cool people and great food.                                                                                                                        

Tips for visitors heading to the village this year:  

• The Marysville ferry dock is under construction and the ferry is landing at Dawson Point, (4km from the village), so make a plan for transportation ahead of time (will you walk on the ferry and take the shuttle bus? Ride your bike? Arrive early to ensure you can get your car on the ferry?).
• The dock in the village is under construction, so you might hear some noise as you stroll throughout the village.
• Public washrooms are located at the Tourist Centre. 
• Visitors are welcome! But you’re encouraged to plan ahead to make the most of your island visit. 

Visiting Big Sandy Bay

Tips for visiting Big Sandy Bay this summer:

• Find the entrance fees here. Admission is cash only and there’s no ATM at the entrance, so bring money with you.
• If you plan on hitting the beach a few times this summer, buying a seasons pass will save you money in the long run.
• You can’t buy any supplies at/near the beach, so bring what you need or purchase snacks in the village on your way to the beach.
• Once you arrive at the parking lot, there is a 1.3km walking trail to the beach. This will take ~20 minutes to walk. Strollers and wagons are permitted, bicycles are not. Pack appropriately for this walk.
• Pack out everything you pack in - leave no garbage behind!
• There is little shade at the beach so pack accordingly.
• Dogs are welcome on leashes only.
• Big Sandy Bay is about 11km from the village of Marysville. Cycling there will take approximate 30 – 40 minutes.

You might also like:

Wolfe Island - Where to Eat	Wolfe Island - Things to Do	Wolfe Island Ferry Schedule