Kootenay Lake Ferry

The history of the Kootenay Lake area is tied to the network of ferries used to crisscross the lake. In many areas, ferries are still used to this day as the only (and, frankly, fun) way to cross the lake. The ferries in our region are free, including the famous Kootenay Lake Ferry, which is the longest free ferry in Canada. A new electric ferry will replace the smaller M.V. Balfour in 2024 which is being constructed at the east end of the waterfront in Nelson. Take a Google Tour or read Michael A. Cone's 'Connecting The Kootenays' to learn about over a hundred years of ferry service. 

IMPORTANT: Labour Disruption & Reduced Sailings

As of November 2024, employees of Western Pacific Marine, the operator of the Kootenay Lake Ferry, initiated strike action following unsuccessful negotiations over a new collective agreement. Travellers planning to use the Kootenay Lake Ferry are advised to check the latest schedules and updates on DriveBC to stay informed about current operations.

The Kootenay Lake Ferry will sail 3 times daily, Monday to Friday, and 2 times daily, Saturday and Sunday. The ferry will also sail in the event of an emergency.

*PLEASE NOTE: Changes will be noted on the company that operates the ferry: Western Pacific Marine website. The ferry operates on Nelson time (PST). 

To see ferry traffic (not fairy traffic, although those have been sighted too) view the ferry landings on the BC Highway Webcams:

• Kootenay Lake Ferry Landing
• Balfour Ferry Landing

Capacity

MV Osprey: 80 passenger cars, 250 passengers.
MV Balfour: 28 passenger cars, 150 passengers. (Summer only).

Do I need to make a reservation?

No, a reservation is not required. Vehicles are loaded on a first-come first-served basis. We recommend arriving early on busy holiday weekends and during the peak summer season.

Other Ferries on/Around Kootenay Lake

The highway system in British Columbia includes a series of ferries. Webcams, current conditions, and event can be found through DriveBC for the Harrop, Balfour and Kootenay Bay landings.

• Balfour Bay / Crawford Bay Ferry takes 35 minutes to cross and there are winter and summer crossing schedules.
• Harrop / Procter Ferry crosses a very narrow stretch of Kootenay Lake where you can drive through lush farmland to visit these quaint communities. Crossing time is 5 minutes. The Harrop/Procter ferry crosses continually around the clock.
• Glade Cable Ferry, south of Nelson, takes travellers across a narrow stretch of the lake and into lush farmland. Crossing time is 3 minutes.
• Needles / Fauquier Ferry lies south of Nakusp and crosses the Lower Arrow Lake. It takes approximately 10 minutes to cross and leaves approximately every hour.
• Galena Bay Ferry / Upper Arrow Lake Ferry, takes 20 minutes to cross from Galena Bay to Shelter Bay.

History of the Ferries on Kootenay Lake

The Kootenay Lake area is tied to the network of ferries used to crisscross the lake. In many areas, ferries are still used to this day as the only (and, frankly, fun) way to cross the lake.

Prior to the opening of "BOB" (the Big Orange Bridge) in 1957 that connects Nelson to the north shore of Kootenay Lake, sternwheelers were the only option. Elsewhere, including Balfour Bay, Harrop/Procter, and further north at Galena Bay/Shelter Bay and Fauquier/Needles, ferries are still essential for transportation in the region.

Sternwheelers used to rule the lake and river system from here to Portland, Oregon. The oldest intact sternwheeler in the world is sitting in Kaslo. The lovingly restored SS Moyie National Historic Site is a regal reminder of how travel along Kootenay Lake used to be.

Though sternwheelers no longer rule the lake, the ferry system still harkens back to that time. Take a ride on at least one of our ferries during your stay with us and learn a bit about our heritage at Nelson Museum, Archives & Gallery. The history of Kootenay Lake and the Columbia River is a long one — full of twists and turns and fascinating stories.

Take some time to learn more about our long and fascinating history and make sure to visit the SS Moyie and cross the lake via a ferry as part of your stay with us. The Kootenay Lake Ferry is the longest free ferry in the world, and very easily one of the most gorgeous routes. Trip Advisor lists this ferry ride as one of the most popular things to do in our area (and not for a lack of things to do)!