Is there a direct bus?

No, you must take a ferry and then connect to a bus service like Ebus in Vancouver.

How long is the ferry?

The ferry crossing from Salt Spring to Swartz Bay takes approximately 35 minutes.

Do I need winter tires?

Yes, winter tires are legally required on most BC highways from October to April.

Can I fly from Salt Spring?

You can take a seaplane from Ganges Harbour to downtown Vancouver or Richmond.

Yes, the Coquihalla Highway offers spectacular mountain vistas.

Salt Spring Island

Kelowna

Flight Driving

Salt Spring Island to Kelowna

Updated: 28 May 2026

The journey from Salt Spring Island to Kelowna covers approximately 450 kilometers. You must first take a BC Ferries vessel from Fulford Harbour or Vesuvius Bay to Swartz Bay or Crofton. From the mainland, you connect to Highway 1 and eventually the Coquihalla Highway 5 or the Okanagan Connector 97C. This route transitions from coastal island scenery to the arid, mountainous terrain of the Okanagan Valley. Expect a total travel time of roughly 7 hours depending on ferry synchronization and traffic.

Total Distance: Driving distance 450 km, straight-line air distance 280 km.

Fastest Way

Flight from Vancouver International Airport to Kelowna International Airport.

Cheapest Way

Driving with a personal vehicle is the most cost-effective method for groups.

Compare Salt Spring Island to Kelowna Routes

	Flight Connecting	Driving Connecting
Duration	3 hours	7 hours
Avg Price	$250 - $400	$85 - $120
Operator	Harbour Air / Air Canada	BC Ferries
Route	Seaplane from Ganges to Vancouver, then flight from YVR to YLW.	Ferry to Swartz Bay, Highway 17, Highway 1, Highway 5, Highway 97C.
Tip	Seaplanes offer a scenic view of the Gulf Islands before your connection.	Book your ferry reservation online in advance to avoid long wait times at the terminal.

Travel Tips

Ferry Reservations
Always reserve your ferry spot on the BC Ferries website to guarantee boarding.
Mountain Driving
Ensure your vehicle has proper tires for the Coquihalla Highway, especially during winter months.
Traffic Awareness
Avoid traveling through the Lower Mainland during Friday afternoon rush hour.
Fuel Stops
Fill up your tank before entering the Coquihalla as gas stations are sparse on mountain passes.
Hydration
Keep water in your car as the Okanagan climate is significantly drier than the coast.

Safety Tips

Wildlife
Watch for deer and moose on the highways, especially during dawn and dusk.
Weather Changes
Mountain weather can shift rapidly; check DriveBC for road conditions before departing.
Emergency Kit
Carry a basic emergency kit including blankets and a flashlight in your trunk.
Cell Service
Be aware that cell service may drop in remote sections of the mountain highways.