Port Washington Seaplane Base

Port Washington Water Aerodrome operates as a seaplane base on the waterfront of Pender Island, one of British Columbia's Southern Gulf Islands. This small facility handles regular floatplane flights to and from Vancouver Harbour, providing a critical transport link for island residents and a scenic entry point for visitors. With a single dock, a compact waiting area, and friendly staff who often know regular passengers by name, the aerodrome embodies the informal efficiency typical of Canada's coastal aviation. The flight to Vancouver takes just over 20 minutes and costs 125 Canadian dollars one way—offering a fast alternative to the longer ferry journey.

Getting There

Reaching Port Washington Water Aerodrome requires careful planning, as it sits on an island without direct road access from the mainland. The most common approach is to take a BC Ferry from either Swartz Bay on Vancouver Island (near Victoria) or Tsawwassen on the mainland (south of Vancouver). Decide which island you are visiting first: if you are heading to Pender Island, ferries from Swartz Bay connect to Otter Bay on North Pender. From Otter Bay, you can drive or take a taxi approximately 10 minutes to the water aerodrome's dock on Port Washington. For those coming from the mainland, the Tsawwassen–Swartz Bay route is the main option, with a transfer at Swartz Bay to an inter-island ferry. Alternatively, you can fly directly into Port Washington by seaplane from Vancouver's Coal Harbour—a 20-minute journey that costs 125 CAD one way. If you arrive by seaplane, you are already at the airport. Driving within Pender Island is straightforward, and the water aerodrome offers a wheelchair-accessible car park for those picking up or dropping off passengers. Taxis are available by pre-arrangement, and some hotels on the island provide shuttle services. Note that ferry schedules vary by season; check BC Ferries ahead of time and allow extra time for connections.

Inside the Terminal

Do not expect a large terminal building. Port Washington Water Aerodrome consists of a floating dock, a small covered waiting area, and a simple office. There are no jet bridges, security scanners, or duty-free shops. Check-in is handled at the desk, where staff weigh your bags—luggage is limited, typically to around 50 pounds per person—and assign seats based on aircraft balance. The waiting area has bench seating and is wheelchair-accessible, including an accessible car park and ramp to the dock. There is no café or vending machine, so bring water or snacks if needed. Restrooms are available but basic. Boarding involves walking onto the dock and stepping carefully into the floatplane. Staff are known for being helpful and will assist passengers with mobility challenges. Because the airport is small, there is no need to arrive more than 20 minutes early for a scheduled flight. However, weather can cause delays; seaplanes are more sensitive to fog, wind, and low clouds than scheduled airlines. The atmosphere is relaxed, and you will often see pilots chatting with passengers before departure.

Port Washington Water Aerodrome and Southern Gulf Islands

The Southern Gulf Islands form an archipelago stretching between Vancouver Island and the mainland, encompassing dozens of islands, islets, and reefs. Among the most accessible are Pender, Saturna, Mayne, and Galiano islands, each with its own character. Pender Island, where Port Washington Water Aerodrome is located, is known for its rolling farmland, wooded parks, and a chain of restaurants and artisan studios. The island is part of the Gulf Islands National Park Reserve, which protects coastal bluffs, sandy beaches, and rare Garry oak ecosystems. Hiking trails, kayaking routes, and cycling lanes crisscross the island, offering visitors quiet encounters with eagles, seals, and orca whales in the surrounding waters. The region has a rich history: before European settlement, the Coast Salish peoples used the islands for seasonal fishing and gathering. Later, in the late 19th century, settlers established farms and fishing communities. Today, the population is a mix of year-round residents and summer visitors drawn by the mild Mediterranean-like climate—drier and sunnier than nearby Vancouver. The water aerodrome is a vital thread in this community fabric, enabling quick trips to the city for work, medical appointments, or shopping. For tourists, it offers a novel and efficient way to explore multiple islands without relying solely on ferries. Whether you are visiting for a day of hiking in the national park, a weekend at a seaside inn, or a longer stay to unwind, the seaplane flight itself becomes part of the experience—a low-level tour over the glittering Strait of Georgia and the forested islands below.

Practical Information

Port Washington Water Aerodrome is not open all days; operations vary by season and are typically limited to daylight hours. Contact the operator directly to confirm schedule and availability. Phone: +1 604-273-8900. Hours are not posted; flights run on demand or according to a published timetable (often morning and late afternoon). Important tips: Book your flight in advance, especially during summer and holiday periods, as seats are limited. Check weather conditions—if fog or low clouds are forecast, consider flexible plans. Arrive at the dock at least 15 minutes before departure; the pilot will perform a safety briefing before boarding. Baggage is strictly limited to 50 pounds per person; soft-sided bags are preferred as they fit better in the aircraft. Payment is typically by credit card at check-in. There is no parking for long-term stays, but short-term parking is available for drop-offs and pickups. If you are staying on Pender Island, many accommodations offer taxi or shuttle service. For a smooth trip, pack light, dress for the elements (it is cooler on the water), and bring earplugs if you are sensitive to engine noise. One final piece of advice: ask the pilot about the route—on clear days, they may fly close to towering coastal mountains or pass over seal colonies, turning a simple commute into an unforgettable tour.