Flora and fauna suited to the oceanic climate fill the 42-kilometre (26-mi.) crescent-shaped island. Though the shaggy Sable Island horses attract the most attention, some 350 bird species as well as numerous seal colonies can be seen. Grey seals breed in December and January, while the rarer Harbor seals breed in May and June. Offshore, more than 18 shark species occupy the Scotian Shelf.
European explorers sailed through starting in 1520, with Sable Island eventually hosting sealers, shipwreck survivors and salvagers, and even a penal colony. Residence on a more permanent basis began with a rescue station circa 1801 until technological advances reduced the number of shipwrecks. Now functioning mainly as a research and operational facility, the Main Station provides a year-round base for researchers, weather station technicians, archeologists and other personnel.
Access is challenging: The only way to Sable Island National Park Reserve is by air or sea with advance reservations. Day trips are most common, as there are limited visitor facilities. Vehicular travel is restricted to hard-packed sand and short stretches of roads. To ensure their safety, visitors are encouraged to share travel plans with personnel and carry either a marine radio or satellite phone.
Private vessels must have permission to visit and face dangerous currents and sandbars. A VHF radio and regular in-transit communication with the station manager is required. Communication is conducted on Marine Channel 8.
Sable Aviation offers same-day air travel. Flights on the plane, which seats 6-8, is sold on a per-seat basis, weather permitting, and costs approximately $2,000. Phone (902) 860-3994 for more information.
Parks Canada keeps a list of licensed operators and regulations; phone (902) 426-1500 for trip-planning information. Visits must be booked in advance.
Peak travel conditions occur mid-August to October, as fog can diminish visibility from late June through early August. Entry and other fees range from $31-$272.
Note: Visitors are asked to take the Mi'kma'ki Sable Island Pledge to respectfully visit the Mi'kmaw land. As the area is remote and weather conditions vary, supplies and medicine are good to bring in case of travel delays; however, all belongings, including trash, must leave the island upon departure. Camping, fires, pets and firearms are prohibited.