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Mayne Island Seaplane Base (YAV) is a small water aerodrome at Miners Bay on Mayne Island, British Columbia, serving the Southern Gulf Islands. It offers scheduled and charter seaplane links to Vancouver, Victoria, and neighbouring islands, with the dock close to Miners Bay's shops and government wharf. The base is a weather-dependent, foot-passenger-friendly gateway for cyclists, kayakers, and visitors exploring the Gulf Islands.
💡 Local Tip
If fog or wind cancels your seaplane, BC Ferries from Village Bay is the reliable backup; keep the ferry schedule handy and ask the seaplane agent about rebooking before you leave the Miners Bay dock.
🚖 Getting There
The seaplane dock is in Miners Bay, a short walk from the village centre, so most passengers arrive on foot, by bicycle, or by local taxi or shuttle. If you are connecting to BC Ferries at Village Bay, allow about 10 to 15 minutes by car or taxi, or check for seasonal shuttle service. Parking near the dock is limited, so arrange a drop-off rather than leaving a vehicle.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Where is Mayne Island Seaplane Base located?
A: It is in Miners Bay on Mayne Island, British Columbia, at the public wharf area on the island's west side. Its IATA code is YAV.
Q: Which airlines fly from YAV?
A: Scheduled seaplane service is typically offered by operators such as Harbour Air and Seair Seaplanes, with routes to Vancouver Harbour, Vancouver International South Terminal, Victoria Harbour, and other Gulf Islands. Schedules vary by season.
Q: Do I need to book in advance?
A: Yes, advance booking is strongly recommended, especially in summer and around holidays. Seaplanes have limited seats and flights can sell out quickly.
Q: What should I know about baggage?
A: Baggage is limited due to aircraft weight and balance. Check with your operator before flying; usually one small soft-sided bag plus a personal item is allowed, and excess may be denied or charged.
AI-generated content · Generated Sep 27, 2026 · deepseek-v4.1-flash