The Strait of Georgia is a narrow waterway that separates Vancouver Island from mainland British Columbia. There are several synonyms for the Strait of Georgia, including Georgia Strait, which is the most common alternative name. Other terms that are sometimes used to refer to this body of water include the Gulf of Georgia and the Salish Sea. In addition, local Indigenous peoples have their own names for the Strait, such as Hecate Strait (in Kwak'wala) and Tsawwassen (in Halkomelem). Whatever the name, the Strait of Georgia is a unique and important waterway that supports a rich variety of marine life and provides essential transportation links between communities along the west coast of Canada.