Posted: Thursday, July 30, 2026
Busy weekend expected
BC Day long weekend is the busiest weekend of the year for ferry travel on the coast. Our major routes between the Lower Mainland and Vancouver Island are expected to be at or near capacity for vehicles during peak times.
Be prepared for sailing waits if a booking has not been made in advance of travel. Depending on when you arrive, there may be limited or no space available for drive-up vehicles. Check Current Conditions before leaving for the terminal for the latest sailing and capacity information, and check Service Notices for operational updates.
If your plans are flexible, consider taking transit and travel as a foot passenger. Walk-on bookings are available on our major routes at no additional cost and are recommended to help secure your preferred sailing. BC Day long weekend travel tips can be found here.
DETAILS
Experience the best of Salt Spring Island on the Artisan Trail, a scenic 28 km loop filled with handcrafted flavours, picturesque farms, and local charm. This curated route highlights the island’s passion for small-batch excellence and its naturally beautiful surroundings. From creamy cheeses to fragrant lavender fields, each stop offers a taste of Salt Spring’s creative spirit. With convenient hop-on, hop-off access, you can explore at your own pace.
Highlights:
- Visit Salt Spring Island Cheese, a beloved goat farm and award-winning cheese known for its artisanal creations.
- Wander through Sacred Mountain Lavender Farm, a tranquil hillside retreat bursting with colour and calming aromas.
- Sip small-batch brews, wines, and ciders at local craft producers nestled among the island’s forests and farmlands.
- Explore Ganges Village and its bustling market, featuring island-made goods, local art, and fresh fare.
The Salt Spring Hop On Hop Off is available Friday, Saturday, and Sunday from April 25 to September 27, 2026.
Activity policies
Pickup location: Salt Spring Visitor Information Centre, 121 Lower Ganges Rd, Salt Spring Island, BC V8K 2T1
Guests must begin their journey at the Salt Spring Visitor Information Centre before boarding the shuttle for the first time.
Stops include:
- Salt Spring Visitor Info Centre
- Salt Spring Island Cheese
- Sacred Mountain Lavender
- Salt Spring Brewing Co.
- Garry Oaks Estate Winery
- Ciderwork & Salt Spring Apple Co.
The schedule for drop-offs/pick-ups can be found here. Please review the schedule carefully to ensure you do not miss the shuttle, and arrive at your stop at least 5 minutes before the posted time.
Guests are not required to visit every stop. Guests can hop on and off at all of the stops along the trail, or simply choose the ones that interest you most.
Food and drinks are not included with this tour. Any purchases will be at the guest’s own expense.
The "Artisan Trail" takes approximately one hour to complete a loop and runs continuously from 10:00am - 6:00pm.
Please note that the Hop On Hop Off bus is not wheelchair accessible.
All tours booked through BC Ferries must be reserved at least 72 hours in advance.
AVAILABLE IN Salt Spring Island, BC
FROM April 25 - September 27
$63.00
+ taxes and fees, per adult