Kootenay Lake Ferry

The Kootenay Lake ferry runs across Kootenay Lake, 35 kilometres east of Nelson on Highway 3A, between Balfour (west side) and Kootenay Bay (east side), 70 kilometres from Creston on Highway 3A.

Ferry capacity:

The capacity of the M.V. Osprey 2000 is 70 vehicles and 144 passengers. The M.V. Balfour can accommodate 19 vehicles and 150 passengers.

Crossing time: 35 minutes

Service hours: Currently operating on summer schedule.

The M.V. Osprey 2000 operates:

The M.V. Osprey operates on the regular winter schedule, except when it’s down for regular maintenance. At that time, the M.V. Balfour operates the route with its reduced capacity of 19 vehicles.

Additional summer service:

The summer schedule is in effect as of June 22, 2026, until after the Labour Day weekend.

The M.V. Balfour operates:

All times are Pacific Time (PST). Times in bold indicate peak ferry travel. Anticipate delays during this period.​