How to Get to Vancouver IslandFerries & Airports Across Vancouver Island
From breathtaking ferry rides to thrilling float plane adventures, your journey to Vancouver Island will be an unforgettable part of the adventure.
How to Get to Vancouver Island Guide:
Vancouver Island is a must-visit destination, and its island location adds an extra layer of adventure to getting there.
Whether you choose a scenic ferry ride from Vancouver or Washington, a thrilling float plane that lands right at your destination, or a convenient flight to one of the island’s regional, domestic, or international airports, the journey is part of the experience. With so many options, getting to Vancouver Island is as exciting as exploring it!
Ferries to Vancouver Island
Ferries are a quintessential part of travelling to Vancouver Island, offering scenic views and a relaxing way to get there. Here’s an overview of the key ferry services:
Travel Tip:
• Make reservations during peak travel seasons to secure your spot.
• Watch the weather. Storms can cause cancellations and delays.
BC Ferries:
BC Ferries operates several passenger and car ferry routes connecting the British Columbia mainland to various terminals on Vancouver Island, providing seamless and scenic access to the island’s diverse regions.
Whether you’re travelling with your vehicle or on foot, these routes make exploring Vancouver Island easy and enjoyable. Here are the key routes:
- Tsawwassen (South Vancouver) to Swartz Bay (Victoria): This is the most popular route, providing a 1.5-hour crossing to Swartz Bay, located approximately 32 km north of Victoria.
- Tsawwassen to Duke Point (Nanaimo): Ideal for travellers heading to central Vancouver Island, this route offers a 2-hour sailing directly to Duke Point, situated south of Nanaimo.
- Horseshoe Bay (West Vancouver) to Departure Bay (Nanaimo): This 1.5-hour crossing connects West Vancouver to Departure Bay, located near downtown Nanaimo, providing convenient access to the central island.
- Powell River (Westview) to Comox (Little River): A scenic 1-hour and 20-minute route linking the Sunshine Coast to the Comox Valley on Vancouver Island, perfect for those exploring the island’s northern regions.
- Prince Rupert to Port Hardy (Bear Cove): For adventurers travelling between the northern tip of Vancouver Island and the North Coast, this route offers a 15-hour journey through the Inside Passage, renowned for its breathtaking coastal scenery.
All BC Ferries vessels are designed to accommodate both passengers and vehicles, making them a flexible option for all types of travellers.
Onboard amenities such as cafes, comfortable lounges, and wildlife-viewing decks enhance the journey, ensuring your trip to Vancouver Island is as enjoyable as the destination itself.
For more about what to expect on BC Ferries, visit our BC Ferries Guide.
Hullo:
Hullo is a passenger-only ferry service offering fast and convenient travel between downtown Vancouver and Nanaimo:
- Route: Downtown Vancouver to Downtown Nanaimo.
- Duration: Approximately 70 minutes.
- Features: Complimentary Wi-Fi, reserved seating, and multiple daily sailings.
FRS Clipper:
FRS Clipper provides passenger ferry services between the Seattle and Victoria:
- Route: Seattle, Washington to Victoria, BC.
- Duration: Approximately 2 hours and 59 minutes.
- Features: Comfortable seating and scenic views of the Pacific Northwest.
Black Ball Ferry Line (M.V. Coho):
The M.V. Coho ferry offers vehicle and passenger service between the Port Angeles and Victoria:
- Route: Port Angeles, Washington to Victoria, BC.
- Duration: Approximately 90 minutes.
- Features: Onboard amenities include a cafeteria, gift shop, duty-free store, comfortable lounges, and pet-friendly areas.
Flights to Vancouver Island
Find Cheapest Flights to Victoria BC
Airports On Vancouver Island
Flying to Vancouver Island is one of the fastest and most convenient options. There are several airports to choose from, depending on your departure city and final destination:
Victoria International Airport (YYJ):
The main airport serves the capital city of Victoria. It offers flights from major Canadian cities, including Vancouver, Calgary, Edmonton, Montreal, Winnipeg, and Toronto, as well as some U.S. hubs, such as Seattle and Las Vegas.
Nanaimo Airport (YCD):
It’s a great choice if you’re heading to the central or northern parts of the island. Regular flights from Vancouver and Calgary are available.
Comox Valley Airport (YQQ):
Perfect for those visiting the Comox Valley, Mount Washington, or northern Vancouver Island. Flights typically connect from Calgary, Vancouver, Edmonton and Kelowna.
Campbell River Airport (YBL):
Campbell River Airport offers regular flights to other regional destinations, ideal for those travelling to northern destinations or looking to explore the wilderness of Vancouver Island.
Tofino Long Beach Airport (YAZ):
This small regional airport is great for travellers heading to the west coast of the island for surfing or exploring the Pacific Rim National Park Reserve.
For a more adventurous or time-efficient option, consider taking a float plane or helicopter to Vancouver Island:
- Harbour Air: Offers float plane services between downtown Vancouver and several island destinations, including Victoria, Nanaimo, and Comox.
- Seair Seaplanes: Connects Vancouver (Richmond) to Nanaimo and other key spots on the island.
- Helijet: Provides helicopter flights between downtown Vancouver and Victoria, perfect for those wanting a quick trip with breathtaking aerial views.
Travel tip: Traveling light? Float planes have strict baggage limits, so pack accordingly.
Getting from Vancouver to Vancouver Island
Vancouver is the primary hub for many travellers heading to Vancouver Island, and there are multiple options to suit your schedule and preferences. Whether you prefer a scenic ferry ride, a quick flight, or a unique adventure, here’s how to make the journey:
Vancouver to Victoria
Ferry Options:
The ferry is the most popular way to travel from Vancouver to Vancouver Island and to get to Victoria the most direct way is through Tsawwassen (South Vancouver) to Swartz Bay (Victoria): This automobile and passenger 1.5-hour ferry ride connects to the southern part of Vancouver Island and is ideal if you’re heading to Victoria.
Float Plane
- Float Planes and Helicopters:
- Float Planes: Harbour Air operates frequent flights between downtown Vancouver Harbour or Vancouver International Airport (YVR) and popular Victoria Harbour. Flights typically take around 30 minutes and offer stunning aerial views.
- Helijet: This helicopter service operates between downtown Vancouver Harbour or Vancouver Airport and downtown Victoria, landing at the cruise line terminals, offering a quick and scenic 35-minute journey.
Looking for more, we have a page on getting from Vancouver to Victoria.
Vancouver to Nanaimo
- Ferry Options: The ferry is the most popular way to travel from Vancouver to Nanaimo. You can access two terminals that will take you to Nanaimo South or North of Vancouver:
- Tsawwassen to Duke Point (Nanaimo): Perfect for central island destinations, this route also takes about 2 hours.
- Horseshoe Bay (North Vancouver) to Departure Bay (Nanaimo): A convenient option if you’re starting in North or West Vancouver.
- Float Planes and Helicopters:
- Float Planes: Companies like Harbour Air and Seair Seaplanes operate frequent flights between downtown Vancouver Harbour or Vancouver International Airport (YVR) to Nanaimo Harbour, which typically take around 30 minutes and offer stunning aerial views.
- Helijet: This helicopter service operates between downtown Vancouver Harbour or Vancouver Airport and Nanaimo Harbour, offering a quick and scenic 35-minute journey.
- Driving to the Ferries: If you’re travelling with a car, you can drive to the ferry terminals at Tsawwassen or Horseshoe Bay. Be sure to arrive early, especially during peak seasons, and consider making a reservation to avoid long waits.
Arriving on Vancouver Island: Planning Your Trip
Once you’ve arrived on Vancouver Island, it’s time to plan your stay and make the most of your visit. The island offers something for everyone, from luxurious hotels to adventurous tours, vibrant shopping districts, and unforgettable dining experiences. Here’s a guide to help you plan your visit, focusing on the areas around Victoria and Nanaimo.
Hotels and Accommodations
Both Victoria and Nanaimo offer a wide variety of accommodations, ranging from boutique hotels and charming bed-and-breakfasts to luxurious waterfront resorts. Whether you’re looking for a cozy getaway or a place with all the amenities, you’ll find plenty of options to suit your style and budget.
👉 Browse Recommended Vancouver Island Hotels to find the perfect place to stay.
Tours and Guided Experiences
Both cities offer a range of guided tours, indoor activities
- Tours/Activities Victoria: Popular options include indoor activities, whale watching, food tours, and eco-friendly adventures like kayaking and paddleboarding.
- Tours/Activities Nanaimo: Whale watching, paddle boarding, hiking or cave explorations.
Things to Do
- Things to do in Victoria: Explore the city’s rich history, from its beautifully preserved architecture to world-renowned gardens. Stroll along the picturesque Inner Harbour, visit fascinating museums, or take a leisurely walk or bike ride along scenic coastal paths.
- Things to do in Nanaimo: Dive into the city’s rich maritime culture with a harborfront walk or a boat tour. Nature lovers will enjoy hiking trails, nearby waterfalls, and parks with breathtaking views.
