Your Questions, Answered

  • There are no cars on the island. Guests may park their cars in the parking area on the mainland and are transported to Garden Island via a our ferry, a 10 person pontoon boat.

    Simply call the island at 802-425-2791 and one of our ferry captains will answer and come pick you up. The ferry takes less than 5 minutes to travel the quarter mile between the island and mainland.

    The island is intentionally quiet, walkable and focused on nature, relaxation, and connection. Most guests quickly find the absence of traffic becomes one of their favorite parts of the experience.

  • The ferry is complimentary and on demand between the hours of 8:30am and 6:00PM.

    Outside of these hours, we asks guests to tip the ferry captain $10 per ride (not per guest). For late night or early morning trips, please make arrangements with the ferry captain so that they are expecting you.

  • Lake Champlain is widely considered one of the best freshwater fishing lakes in the Northeast and is known nationally for excellent smallmouth and largemouth bass fishing. The waters surrounding Garden Island and nearby Converse Bay are popular for bass, northern pike, perch, trout and even salmon. Guests regularly fish directly from the docks, shoreline, kayaks and small boats. You can also feel free to bring your own boat!

    For more options, Charlotte and Shelburne area offers excellent boat access, local fishing guides, and charter opportunities. Lake Champlain hosts multiple regional tournaments each year and is known for both recreational and competitive fishing.

  • Yes! We have dock space and moorings available on a first come basis at no extra charge. We typically do not have an issue with space.

    Many guests enjoy bringing their fishing boat, ski boat, or smaller boats such as kayaks.

  • We have non-motorized water crafts for guests to use included with your stay at no extra charge. These include, paddle boards, a paddleboat, kayaks and canoes.

    These boats are located on or near the beach. If you need any help setting up, please ask one of our staff for assistance.

  • We recommend bringing grocers, sunscreen, comfortable walking shoes or water shoes and any specialty items you may want during your stay. Most guests stock up in Shelburne or Charlotte before taking the ferry to the island.

    The cabins include full kitchens with basis cookware and essentials and the mainland is only a short boat ride away if additional supplies are needed.

    Towels, linens and soaps are provided for your stay.

  • Yes! We often have family, school and friend reunions held at the island. People love that they can split up in to their own cabins, allowing everyone to have their space, while gathering together on the beach or lawns. We often find guests return annually in these types of situations.

  • Lake Champlain, particularly the area around Garden Island has little to no boat traffic. Riding around the lake is calming and peaceful. Pulling skiers or tubers is easy without the hectic congestion that other lakes have to navigate. Lake Champlain is truly a hidden treasure. The lake is so large and perfect for boating and at times feels like your own private lake. Feel at ease cruising around without the noise, traffic and stress.

    And for those who love to fish, head out to the deep waters behind the island, or troll along the rocky shores in peace and quiet. A true fisher’s paradise.

  • Yes. Garden Island is especially popular with families and multi-generational groups because of the safe, low-traffic environment and wide open outdoor spaces. Children can explore the meadows, swim from the dock, paddle near the shore and enjoy the freedom of island life in a setting removed from busy roads and crowds.

    Several of the homes are designed specifically for larger family gatherings and reunions.