A layover in Ganges is one of those happy accidents of air travel. Ganges Seaplane Base sits just 60 minutes from the city center by Walking/Local Taxi, and even a short visit can be surprisingly rewarding. This guide covers everything you need to get out of the terminal and back in time for your next boarding call.
Essential Info Before You Head Out
A few things to sort out before you leave YGG:
- Entry requirements: Make sure you have the right visa or entry clearance for Canada. Transit visas and tourist visas are different things — double-check before you exit.
- Travel time: The trip to Ganges takes about 60 minutes by Walking/Local Taxi. Factor in the return trip and at least 90 minutes of buffer for security and boarding.
- Currency: The local currency is CAD. Cards are widely accepted in most places, but carrying some CAD in cash is a good idea for smaller vendors.
What to See and Do in Ganges
If you head into Ganges, here are two things worth checking out:
Ganges Village Stroll & Shopping is a solid choice if you want to get a feel for the area. Great for picking up a quick snack or souvenir between flights.
Artcraft – Salt Spring Island is another option that’s easy to fit into a short visit. It’s a popular stop for visitors with limited time in Ganges.
Staying airside? That’s fine too. Inside YGG, you can spend time at Seaplane Viewing & Harbor Walk or try Salt Spring Island Visitor Centre. Sometimes the best layover is a calm one.
Best Bites Near YGG
- In the city: Auntie Pesto’s Cafe and Oystercatcher Seafood Bar & Grill are both worth a visit if you’re exploring Ganges.
- At the airport: Moby’s Pub and Tree House Cafe will get the job done without leaving the terminal.
Getting to Ganges from the Airport
From YGG, the Walking/Local Taxi gets you to Ganges in around 60 minutes. That’s the option most travelers with a time constraint should pick.
Taxis and ride-hailing services are available too (expect roughly 80 minutes), but they cost more and are at the mercy of traffic. Unless you’re traveling with heavy luggage or in a group, the Walking/Local Taxi offers the best balance of speed, cost, and reliability.
Layover Budget Breakdown
Quick budget math for your Ganges layover:
| Expense | Estimated Cost (USD) |
|---|---|
| Round-trip transport | ~$10 |
| Meal | ~$19 |
| Buffer / extras | ~$10 |
| Total | ~$39 |
If you’re only out for a few hours, you might not need much cash at all — many places accept contactless payments.
Luggage Storage Options
Dedicated luggage storage at YGG may be limited. Your best bet is to check services like Bounce or Stasher for verified storage locations near the airport or in Ganges’s center.
Some hotels and shops near transit hubs also offer storage for a small fee — worth asking about if you’re headed into town.
Staying Connected
WiFi at YGG should cover you while you’re in the terminal. Once you step outside, you’ll want your own data connection for maps, translating, and getting around. An eSIM is the simplest solution — set it up on your phone before landing in Canada and you’re good to go.
Need a Nap? Options at YGG
Long overnight layover? Your options at YGG include terminal seating (look for areas away from the main walkways) and, if available, airport lounges with day passes. Some airports in Canada also have transit hotels or sleeping pods — worth checking availability before your trip.
Final Thoughts
A layover in Ganges doesn’t have to be wasted time. With the city just 60 minutes from YGG, you’ve got a real opportunity to turn a stopover into a mini-trip. The logistics are straightforward — it’s just a matter of deciding to go for it.
Watch the clock, travel light, and have a great time out there.
Nearby Layover Guides
Disclaimer: Visa rules, transport schedules, and prices change. Always verify details with official sources and your airline before leaving the airport.