The Outer Islands enjoy similar levels of service from Swartz Bay and Tsawwassen, though the frequency is somewhat less. Reservations are often recommended on the Tsawwassen-Gulf Islands route, the only island route on which travellers can book ahead. Floatplanes provide another popular means of travelling to the islands. Most flights use the revered deHavilland Beaver, a six-passenger aircraft, and passengers are often treated to one or two stops en route. The view from the plane is spectacular, especially on a sunny day.
Many visitors travel to the Gulf Islands by private boat.
If you're travelling from the United States, there's a convenient Customs office at Bedwell Harbour on South Pender Island. Boaters can choose from many marinas, government docks and anchorages at the end of a day of cruising or sailing. If you're not travelling by boat, a local water taxi service offers an opportunity to go island-hopping, with regular departures from Ganges to the Outer Islands.