What to know
- A new seasonal water shuttle is launching in Toronto this June, running as a three-year pilot to connect key spots across the Inner Harbour.
- The route will link the Port Lands (Ookwemin Minising), Yonge Street Slip and Billy Bishop Toronto City Airport, operating from June through September annually.
- City leaders say the pilot is meant to test demand and expand waterfront transit options, with the potential to shape future harbour transportation.
Tired of long commutes along the harbour? A new water shuttle service is launching this summer across Toronto’s Inner Harbour.
Beginning June 2026, this pilot will connect Torontonians to more waterfront destinations.
The service will operate from June through September for a three-year term between these stops:
- Ookwemin Minising, Port Lands — offering direct access to Biidaasige Park.
- Yonge Street Slip — serving the central waterfront.
- Portland Slip / Billy Bishop Toronto City Airport — connecting the western waterfront.
Waterfront Toronto, the City of Toronto, and the Toronto Port Authority announced that York Bay Marine Services will be the operator of this seasonal service.
“Rooted in our Marine Use Strategy’s vision of more connections to more destinations, the East-West Water Shuttle Pilot is an exciting step toward realizing the full potential of Toronto’s harbour and a meaningful demonstration of what a world-class waterfront city can offer its communities,” George Zegarac, President and CEO, Waterfront Toronto, said in a press release.
This initiative stems from a recommendation in the Sea Bus Feasibility Study to test this transit method, similar to other major waterfront cities. This summer’s pilot aims to better understand ridership demand and operational requirements.
Mayor Olivia Chow added that moving people across the waterfront using new methods is crucial as the area continues to grow.
“This water shuttle pilot is about building a more connected city, linking communities from the Port Lands to the western waterfront and making it easier for people to get where they need to go. We are investing in practical, innovative solutions that expand transit options, reduce congestion, and open up our harbour for everyone to enjoy,” she said.
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This announcement comes after the province and federal government secured funding for the Waterfront East LRT. The transit project will connect Union Station to the Port Lands and is expected to cost $3B.
