Getting to Tribune Bay Provincial Park takes two ferries from Vancouver Island, not one. Take the Denman Island ferry from Buckley Bay, cross Denman Island, then board the 10 minute Hornby Island ferry. Once on Hornby, the day-use area is a short drive from the terminal.
Two ferries to Hornby
BC Parks describes the route this way. The journey starts at Buckley Bay, off Highway 19A, where the Denman Island ferry sails. On Denman Island you follow Denman Road to the Hornby Island ferry terminal, and the second crossing takes about 10 minutes. Because the two sailings run on their own timetables, a missed connection on Denman can mean a wait, so look up both schedules on the BC Ferries site before you leave. Reservations and vehicle space rules can change by season, and the BC Ferries sailing schedule is the place to confirm them.
From the Hornby terminal to the day-use area
BC Parks gives two sets of directions once you arrive on Hornby. For day visitors, follow the main road to the four-way stop by the Hornby Island Co-op, then turn left onto Central Road to reach the day-use area entrance. Campers carry straight on along Shields Road to the Tribune Bay campground entrance instead.
The park page does not list dedicated parking details, so check it for the latest notes on where to leave a vehicle. It does say that downtown Hornby is a short walk away, and that a walking trail links the day-use area, the campground and the Co-op.
Without your own car
Foot passengers can ride a bike off the ferry or arrange a ride. The Gulf Islands taxi page covers rides on the islands, and the taxi fare estimator gives a rough cost. Taxi numbers on small islands are limited, so book ahead and do not count on one waiting at the dock.
Seasonal shuttles and bike rentals may exist, but their dates change from year to year. Ask at the ferry terminal or look for current local listings before you cross.
- Check BC Parks for current park notices and rules.
- Bring food and water, since services are limited once you are past the Co-op.