If you want to enjoy a scenic and convenient trip from Kitsilano to Granville Island in Vancouver, BC, taking a ferry offers a picturesque experience that combines stunning city views with a relaxing ride. The ferry departs from the Aquatic Drive Ferry Terminal, just a short walk from Kitsilano Beach, and provides a direct route across False Creek to the island. The ferry runs frequently throughout the day, making it an excellent choice for spontaneous visits or planned outings.
For a more flexible and cost-effective option, buses serve the route comfortably. TransLink operates several bus lines, including the 50 and 84 routes, that connect Kitsilano with Downtown Vancouver and Granville Island. The bus ride is quick–typically under 15 minutes–and offers the chance to enjoy the cityscape along the way. Buses run regularly, and you can use an Orca card or mobile ticket to pay, simplifying the boarding process.
Whichever mode you prefer, plan your trip around peak hours to avoid crowds, and check schedules in advance via TransLink’s website or app for real-time updates. Combining ferry and bus options can provide a seamless and enjoyable journey, allowing you to experience different perspectives of Vancouver, BC. Whether you prioritize scenic views or quick transit, both options ensure that your trip from Kitsilano to Granville Island is smooth, enjoyable, and memorable.
How to Travel from Kitsilano to Granville Island by Ferry or Bus
Take the #50 Granville bus from Kitsilano to Granville Island, which runs frequently throughout the day and offers a direct route. The bus departs from several stops along West 4th Avenue or Kitsilano neighborhoods and reaches the island in about 15-20 minutes. Be sure to check the Vancouver Transit system for current schedules and stop locations.
Using the Ferry Service
Board the Seabus from the Lonsdale Quay terminal in North Vancouver to Waterfront Station in Vancouver. From there, transfer to the 99 B-Line bus heading towards Granville Island. After a short ride, disembark at the designated stop near Granville Island. This method provides a scenic ferry ride across the Burrard Inlet, offering picturesque views of Vancouver’s skyline and mountains.
Additional Tips
Plan your trip during daylight hours for the best experience, and verify the schedules beforehand as they may vary on weekends or holidays. Both options allow you to enjoy the vibrant atmosphere of Vancouver, Canada, while reaching either destination efficiently. Consider combining a bus and ferry trip for a more enjoyable and flexible travel experience between Kitsilano and Granville Island.
Step-by-step guide to catch the ferry from Kitsilano to Granville Island and purchase tickets
Start at Kitsilano Beach, where you can access the nearby ferry terminal to Granville Island. Walk south along the shoreline until you reach the Kitsilano Ferry Dock, located near the intersection of Cornwall Avenue and 4th Avenue.
- Arrive at the Kitsilano ferry dock about 10-15 minutes before your planned departure to ensure enough time for ticket purchase and boarding.
- Visit the ticket kiosk, where you can buy a ferry ticket for the Vancouver area. Tickets are available at the kiosk or through the official transit app, if preferred.
- Select your ticket type–single ride, return, or day pass. Prices are typically around CAD 3.40 for a one-way ticket for adults.
- Pay at the kiosk using cash, credit, or debit card. Collect your ticket and keep it handy for the ferry crew to check before boarding.
Check the ferry schedule posted near the dock, as ferries between Kitsilano and Granville Island run frequently–generally every 15-20 minutes during the day. Confirm the next departure time and wait at the designated boarding area.
Boarding the ferry
- Line up at the ferry dock designated for passenger loading. When the ferry approaches, wait for passengers to disembark before stepping onboard.
- Show your ticket to the crew when asked. Relax and enjoy the short 5-minute ride across False Creek to Granville Island.
Once on Granville Island, you can explore the local attractions or make your way to your next destination from there. Carry your ticket with you until the end of your trip, especially if you’re purchasing an online or mobile ticket. Traveling in Vancouver, Canada, via ferry offers a quick and scenic route between Kitsilano and Granville Island, making it a favorite choice for locals and visitors alike.
Public transportation options, schedules, and transfer points between Kitsilano and Granville Island
For quick access from Kitsilano to Granville Island, take BC Transit buses, specifically route 50 or 84, which run regularly throughout the day. These buses connect Kitsilano directly to downtown Vancouver, where you can transfer to the #50 or #84 bus heading toward Granville Island. Buses depart approximately every 15 to 20 minutes during peak hours and less frequently in the evenings, providing flexible travel options.
After arriving at the downtown transfer point, transfer to the Granville Island Ferry service, operated by the False Creek Ferries company. The ferry departs from the Granville Island dock and docks near the ferry terminal in Kitsilano, with departures approximately every 30 minutes. The ferry ride takes roughly 7 minutes, offering scenic views of False Creek and Vancouver BC’s skyline.
Alternatively, for a more direct route, hop on the Aquabus from the foot of Hornby Street. This water taxi service operates from early morning to late evening, with boats arriving every 10 to 15 minutes and providing direct access to Granville Island. It’s a comfortable and picturesque way to travel between the neighborhoods, especially during nice weather.
To plan your trip precisely, check current schedules on Vancouver’s BC Transit website or the False Creek Ferries online timetable, as service times can vary seasonally. Transfers typically occur at the major bus stops in downtown Vancouver, where the bus routes from Kitsilano intersect with the ferry terminals near Granville Island, making the overall journey smooth and convenient.