Stuart Island is easily reached by boat from Powell River via Calm Channel and from Campbell River around the North or South ends of Quadra Island using Sutil Channel, Hoskyn Channel, Okisollo Channel, or Nodales Channel.  Desolation Sound to the South the many mainland inlets and Johnstone straits to the North provide for endless boating exploration.

Water taxi and supply/fuel barge service is available from Campbell River.  Float plane services are available from Campbell River, Vancouver, Victoria, and Seattle.