This BC lake has the longest free ferry ride in the world

Kootenay Lake is one of British Columbia’s most well-known lakes, and for good reason. Its beautiful waters beckon you in during the warmer months, and provide a scenic backdrop to a number of boating activities year-round, including the world’s longest free ferry ride!

Connecting the communities of Kootenay Bay and Balfour, the Kootenay Lake Ferry is a 35-minute ride, boasting truly breathtaking views no matter which way you gaze.

During the winter months (post-Labour Day weekend to mid-June), two ferries run per day at multiple times: The Osprey 2000, which has a larger capacity, and the smaller MV Balfour, which is added to the schedule during high traffic season.

The good news? Both ferries can accommodate RVs and vehicles of all sizes, so you don’t have to ditch your car on this journey.

What’s more, the pristine lake is the delimiter between the Mountain and Pacific time zones, so you’re technically crossing into a different time zone on the journey!

However, when daylight saving time is in effect, you won’t have to worry about changing your watch, as the east shore of Kootenay Lake to Creston is on Mountain Standard Time year-round.

Here is the 2024 operating schedule:

Note that there are food services aboard the Osprey 2000 ferry only.

So there you have it, BC! For a free scenic ride across the lake, check out the Kootenay Lake Ferry sometime this fall or winter.

Kootenay Lake Ferry 

When: Year-round
Where: Kootenay Lake, BC
Cost: Free

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