Balfour Ferry Terminal Kootenay Lake Ferry
Experience the world's longest free ferry, a scenic 35-minute journey across Kootenay Lake with stunning mountain views.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, smoother boarding
Balfour Ferry Terminal Kootenay Lake Ferry
Best Time
Fewer crowds, smoother boarding
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Experience the world's longest free ferry, a scenic 35-minute journey across Kootenay Lake with stunning mountain views.
"Breathtaking views along the Bay. Great way to sightsee while taking the world’s longest free ferry ride."
🚗 First-Come, First-Served
Loading is first-come, first-served. Arrive early during busy periods to secure your spot.
🐶 Pets Stay in Vehicle
Unfortunately, pets must remain in your vehicle during the crossing. 🐕
Quick Facts
Rating
4.3 · 84 reviews
Type
Ferry Terminal
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
World's Longest Free Ferry Ride
Experience the unique thrill of crossing Kootenay Lake on this impressive, free ferry service.
Breathtaking Lake Views
Upper viewing deck
Soak in panoramic vistas of Kootenay Lake and the surrounding mountains from the open deck.
The Landing Restaurant
Balfour Ferry Terminal
Enjoy local cuisine and lake views at this convenient restaurant located right at the terminal.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Free Ride
Scenic Views & Amenities
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 First-Come, First-Served
Loading is first-come, first-served. Arrive early during busy periods to secure your spot.
🐶 Pets Stay in Vehicle
Unfortunately, pets must remain in your vehicle during the crossing. 🐕
☕ Onboard Refreshments
Grab a coffee or snack from the onboard shop to enjoy during your 35-minute journey. ☕
📸 Capture the Scenery
The upper deck offers fantastic photo opportunities of the lake and mountains. :camerawithflash:
Recommendations driving between Kelowna and Nelson
A friend and I are driving from Kelowna to Nelson and back in mid September. Any recommendations for places to stop or things to do along the way? Looking for easy/medium hikes, places to swim, or places with a gorgeous view. Would love a local's perspective before we visit…
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 First-Come, First-Served
Loading is first-come, first-served. Arrive early during busy periods to secure your spot.
🐶 Pets Stay in Vehicle
Unfortunately, pets must remain in your vehicle during the crossing. 🐕
☕ Onboard Refreshments
Grab a coffee or snack from the onboard shop to enjoy during your 35-minute journey. ☕
📸 Capture the Scenery
The upper deck offers fantastic photo opportunities of the lake and mountains. :camerawithflash:
🍽️ Dine with a View
The Landing restaurant at Balfour Terminal is a great spot for a meal before or after your ferry ride.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Travelers praise the Kootenay Lake Ferry for its breathtaking views and the unique experience of the world's longest free ride. The onboard amenities and the convenience of The Landing restaurant at the terminal are also highlights. However, some visitors have reported negative experiences with ferry staff on the Balfour side, citing rude behavior and unfair loading practices during busy periods.
"Ferry is about a 30 min ride. Pets will need to stay in vehicles. They do have a coffee/snack shop on the one boat. Also place to sit and take in the views. Staff is very knowledgeable and always have a smile."
Heather Frost
"Breathtaking views along the Bay. Great way to sightsee while taking the world’s longest free ferry ride. The upper viewing deck allows you to take in the sights while enjoying the fresh air."
D Sorren
"A surprisingly lovely way to cross the lake! The Balfour Ferry Terminal is well organized, with beautiful views while you wait. The crossing itself is smooth and scenic—a peaceful pause in the day’s travels. Definitely one of the more relaxing ways to get from A to B."
Dylan
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Balfour Ferry Terminal is located on Highway 3A, just east of Balfour. It's a key point for travel between the West Kootenay and East Kootenay regions.
Yes, the Kootenay Lake Ferry is the world's longest free ferry! It's part of the provincial highway system.
The ferry connects the Balfour Terminal on the west side of Kootenay Lake to the Kootenay Bay Terminal on the east side.
The crossing typically takes about 35 minutes, offering scenic views of Kootenay Lake.
Absolutely! The ferry accommodates vehicles of all sizes, operating on a first-come, first-served basis for loading.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, the Kootenay Lake Ferry is completely free to use. You do not need to purchase tickets.
The ferry operates year-round, with service typically running from early morning until late evening. Check the official BC Ferries schedule for exact times.
You can check the BC Ferries website or app for real-time sailing information, including any delays or cancellations.
Wait times can vary, especially during peak travel seasons and holidays. Arriving early is recommended, particularly for larger groups or during busy weekends.
No, the ferry operates on a first-come, first-served basis for loading. Reservations are not available.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The Balfour Ferry Terminal offers beautiful views. You can also visit The Landing, a restaurant and accommodation located right at the terminal.
Yes, there are seating areas available, and you can enjoy the scenery from the upper viewing deck during the crossing.
Pets are welcome but must remain inside your vehicle for the duration of the ferry crossing. 🐕
One of the ferry boats has a coffee and snack shop. There are also indoor seating areas and an upper viewing deck.
Head to the upper viewing deck for unobstructed, panoramic views of Kootenay Lake and the surrounding mountains.
📸 📸 Photography
The upper viewing deck offers stunning panoramic shots of the lake and mountains. The terminal itself provides scenic backdrops.
Late afternoons often provide beautiful golden hour light, while early mornings can offer misty, serene lake views.
Yes, the ferry is a prominent feature, and capturing it against the backdrop of the lake and mountains makes for great shots.
Generally, no. You're free to take photos for personal use. Be mindful of other passengers and ferry operations. :camerawithflash:
Expect expansive lake vistas, mountain ranges, the ferry itself, and the charming terminals.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit