You Can Finally Hit Up Toronto Islands Again But Get Your Ferry Tickets ASAP
Get them while you can. Toronto Island ferry tickets will be back on sale as of June 27, but you'll have to order them in advance. And you better do so quickly, because the ferries will only operate at 50% capacity for social distancing.
With the islands opening back up this Saturday, you may want to brace yourself for the rush of people eager to get across the water and escape the city. Toronto Island Park typically gets 1.4 million visitors per year.
Mayor John Tory announced the limited ferry service earlier this week, along with a series of new measures and precautions for passengers.
For example, all passengers will be required to wear non-medical masks or face coverings.
That includes while you wait in line to board or hang out in the enclosed waiting area. You'll have to wear it during the ferry trip, and while you're getting on and off the boat.
The city highly recommends that visitors avoid travelling between 9:30 a.m. and 12:30 p.m., and between 3:30 and 6:30 p.m. for the return trip as it's the busiest time.
According to the official Toronto Island Ferry page, only 5,000 tickets are available per day.
Roundtrip tickets are on sale for $8.19 for adults over 19. Youth tickets are $5.37, and just $3.95 for 14 and under.
As for departure times, the City website has listed its schedule for Centre Island, Hanlan's Point and Ward's Island.
Opening up the islands has been a topic of discussion for some time and now.
With news that the island's beaches are opening up by Canada Day, Councillor Joe Cressy emphasized the importance of enjoying them safely.
“It is a critical resource for recreation and green space for many of us, but we have to ensure that people can enjoy it safely without putting themselves and others at risk," said Cressy who is also the Chair of the Toronto Board of Health.
"That’s why all visitors need to take precautions, including booking tickets in advance and wearing a mask during the ferry ride,” he added.
It's also important to note that washrooms will be closed on the ferries, but hand sanitizer will be provided.
However, the washrooms on the island and at the terminal will be open.
The City has also reopened many of the amenities for you to enjoy while you're there, including splash pads, William Meany Maze and disc golf, plus, a few food and beverage huts.