The Wolfe Island ferry is one of the best bargains in the region. It runs from downtown Kingston across the water to Wolfe Island, the big island at the head of the 1000 Islands, and it is free for passengers on foot, on bicycles or in motorized vehicles. The crossing itself is a mini cruise, with views back to the Kingston skyline, Fort Henry and the harbour, and on the island you can explore the village of Marysville, where most of the shops and places to eat are found, cycle quiet country roads, and find beaches and shoreline cottages. There are no taxis or public transit on the island, so you walk, cycle or drive. The ferry is busy in summer and always busy at weekends, so timing your crossing matters, and the island is a good way to see the countryside beyond Kingston without a long drive.
What to do
The simplest plan is a foot-passenger day trip. Cross from downtown, walk or cycle into Marysville for a coffee and a meal, and explore the shops, then continue along the island's roads for waterside views. Cycling is the best way to see the island, because the roads are quiet and the terrain is mostly flat, so either bring a bike on the boat or rent one on the island.
Wind turbines dot the island's skyline and add a modern note to the farmland, and the beaches and shoreline give you somewhere to stop for a picnic. A smaller ferry runs from Wolfe Island to Simcoe Island, a trip of about ten minutes that operates on demand, for visitors who want to go further off the beaten path.
Seasons and planning
The ferry is a public service that operates through the year, with its timetable posted by the Ontario Ministry of Transportation, so check the current schedule and any service notices before you travel. Service can be affected by weather and by crew or vessel issues, so build some slack into your plans. The crossing takes roughly twenty to thirty minutes.
On weekdays, avoid the commuter peaks of about 6:30 to 9:30 am and 3 to 7 pm, when residents and cars fill the boat. If capacity is reached, foot passengers can be turned away from that crossing, so do not arrive at the last minute for a tight onward plan, and do not bring several vehicles on a single trip.
Fitting it in
Allow a half day at a minimum, and a full day if you cycle. The ferry is a natural pairing with Kingston's waterfront, since the terminal is downtown, and it suits families, couples and budget travellers because the crossing is free. Bring layers and water, plan your meals around Marysville, and remember that there is no public transit on the island.
In winter the island is quiet and many businesses keep shorter hours, so a visit then is more about the crossing and a country walk than about shops. For a different view of the islands, combine the ferry with a cruise from Gananoque on another day.
A few practical notes
Bring a hat and sunscreen in summer, since the island has little shade on the roads, and pack a windproof layer for the crossing, which is breezy in any season. Carry snacks and water if you plan to cycle beyond the village, and check your return crossing time before you go too far, so you are not stranded when the last boats run. The ferry is also a pleasant way to see Kingston from the water, and photographers will like the skyline views on the way out and back.
What to expect
The experience
A free car, bike and foot-passenger ferry crossing to Wolfe Island, followed by a self-guided day of cycling, beaches and village shops.
Best time
Late spring to early autumn for cycling and beaches; avoid weekday commuter peaks and busy summer weekends if you can.
How long
A half day at minimum; a full day if you cycle the island.
Tips
Check the ferry schedule, avoid 6:30 to 9:30 am and 3 to 7 pm on weekdays, bring a bike or rent one, and carry water because there is no public transit.
Quick picks
- Best for
- Budget travellers, cyclists and anyone who wants an island afternoon without a boat tour.
- Families
- The free crossing is an adventure for children, and the quiet roads and beaches give them space; watch the ferry timings.
- Couples
- Cross at midday, picnic by the water and take the late boat home with the sun low over the lake.
- Pair with
- Kingston's waterfront, the Public Market and Fort Henry's skyline views fit either side of the crossing.
- Time needed
- A half day, or a full day with cycling.
Good questions
Does the Wolfe Island ferry cost anything?+
No. The ferry is free for passengers on foot, on bicycles and in motorized vehicles.
How long is the crossing?+
It takes roughly twenty to thirty minutes from downtown Kingston. Check the current timetable and service notices before you go.
When is the ferry busiest?+
It is busy in summer and always busy at weekends, and on weekdays you should avoid about 6:30 to 9:30 am and 3 to 7 pm. If the boat is full, foot passengers can be turned away from that crossing.
What is there to do on Wolfe Island?+
Explore Marysville for shops and places to eat, cycle the country roads, visit the beaches and shoreline, and stay overnight if you wish. There are no taxis or public transit.
Can I take a bike or car?+
Yes. The ferry takes cars, trucks, bicycles and foot passengers. Bringing a bike is the best way to see the island, and rentals are available there.
