Cortes Island

Cortes Island is one of the Discovery Islands off the coast of British Columbia. In 2016, it had about a thousand permanent residents. In summer, Cortes Island's peaceful atmosphere and warm weather draw many visitors.

Understand
Communities on the island include Cortes Bay, Whaletown, Squirrel Cove and Mansons Landing. Desolation Sound is off the east shore of the island. Forestry, fishing and mining have featured in its history. There is also a campground at Smelt Bay Provincial Park.

By ferry
Operates ferry service from Quadra Island (Heriot Bay) to, a 40-minute crossing. Ferries leaves roughly every two hours with six sailings daily, except Tuesday, which has five. Costs $12.45 per passenger (age 12 and up), plus $24 for a car or $12 for a motorcycle (return). Quadra Island also has ferry service to Campbell River in Central Vancouver Island.

By water taxi
Water taxis based out of Campbell River or Lund can be arranged.



Go next

 * Much of the central eastern portion of Cortes Island borders upon, a popular boating and kayaking destination.