While paddling and hiking on Salt Spring Island, we launched out of Fulford Harbour.   We were able to hand launch in low and hide tide from a point along the Isabella Point Road.   Drummond Park is also fine for launching, but only at high tide.   At the other spot 1.8 km along the road, we were able to drive right onto the beach for an easy launch and landing (at N48 45.480 W123 26.992).

On a windy day, paddlers can stay in the harbour going up one shore and back by the other for about 7.3 km.   The ferry uses this harbour too, but the smaller ferry has a small wake and poses no problem.

We paddled out along the western shoreline and around the corner of Isabella Point for a return paddle of 10 to 15 km.   The paddle along the other shoreline and out towards Beaver Point and back is about 16 m.

The crossing over to Portland Island (Gulf Islands National Park) is about 12 km return.   To go right around the island and back is about 18 km.   This route involves crossing Satellite Channel which is the main route for all the ferries.   If paddlers try this route, they should bring a marine radio and tune in to Channel 11.   There are 3 campsites on the island for a marine basecamp adventure (link to more information).

We enjoyed the south end of Salt Spring Island for its quieter roads, forested trails and scenic coastline using both Ruckle Park and Fulford Harbour as launch spots.