Getting to Victoria BCFerries, airports and other ways to get to victoria BC
How to Get to Victoria BC: Guide to Ferries & Airports in Greater Victoria
There are only two ways to reach Victoria: by water or by air.
In this guide, we’ll break down all the options to help get you to Victoria BC for your vacation.
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Fly – YYJ | Ferries to Victoria | Bus | Tours | Float Plane & Helicopter
How to Get to Victoria BC
Getting to Victoria adds an extra layer of charm to your visit, making the trip feel even more special.
Each route offers a unique scenic experience. Whether it’s the stunning shoreline sailing through Active Pass between Swartz Bay and Tsawwassen, the breathtaking island views from the air, or the serene crossing of the Juan de Fuca Strait from Washington State, every option has its own unique experience.
BC Ferries and the Victoria Airport are located near Sidney, on the northern end of the Saanich Peninsula, about a 35-minute drive from Victoria’s inner harbour.
Ferries from Washington State and float planes take you directly into Victoria’s vibrant downtown.
Flying into Victoria Airport
Flights to YYJ are 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.
Find Cheapest Flights to Victoria BC
From the Airport to Victoria
Car rental:
Major car rental companies have booths located at the airport. Find out more about renting a car in Victoria.
Public Transportation:
Bus route from YYJ Airport to Downtown Victoria uses BC Transit bus Route 87 or 88 to get you to the McTavish Exchange and then 70 or 72, will take you downtown.
Taxi:
You may want to use one of the local taxi services. Expect to pay around $65 to get from the airport to Victoria.
Helpful Links for Your Victoria Adventure
Make the most of your time in Victoria and plan your perfect day in the city:
Three Ferries to Victoria
Every year, millions of people rely on ferry systems to reach the Saanich Peninsula.
Whether you’re travelling from Vancouver or Washington State, ferries are a vital and scenic part of the journey for visitors heading to Victoria BC.
BC Ferries:
BC ferries operate the busiest route for car and passenger traffic from Tsawwassen (south of Vancouver) to Swartz Bay (North of Victoria)
The ferry operates throughout the day, and it’s recommended to book ahead. The scenic route takes about a 1hr and a half through the Gulf Islands and across the Strait of Georgia.
- 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.
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 viewing decks enhance the journey, ensuring your trip to Vancouver Island is as enjoyable as the destination.
Getting From the Ferry Terminal to Victoria:
Car:
Drive off the ferry, and you are already on the road that will take you to Victoria’s core. A 40-minute drive along Highway 17 will take you directly to downtown Victoria.
Public Transportation:
The bus route from Swartz Bay Ferry Terminal to Downtown Victoria use BC Transit bus Route 70, 71, and 72 will take you from Swartz Bay to Downtown
Taxi:
You may want to use one of the local taxi services, expect to pay around $75 to get from Swartz Bay to Victoria.
Bike:
An easy ride using the Lochside Trail will take you almost all the way, connecting with the Galloping Goose Trail to get you to Victoria for this 34km trip.
FRS Clipper:
The FRS Clipper is your ticket to an unforgettable journey from Seattle to Victoria, combining convenience with scenic beauty.
Departing from Seattle’s iconic waterfront, the high-speed catamaran glides through the glistening waters of the Puget Sound and Strait of Juan de Fuca. As you relax in comfort, take in panoramic views of lush islands and, on a clear day, majestic mountain ranges.
Arriving in Victoria’s Inner Harbour, you’re greeted by the charm of British Columbia’s capital, with its historic architecture, vibrant culture, and stunning gardens.
- 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 Black Ball Ferry Line’s MV Coho is a passenger and vehicle ferry that has been operating since 1959, providing year-round service between Port Angeles, Washington, and Victoria, British Columbia.
The 90-minute crossing covers approximately 37 kilometres (23 miles) across the Strait of Juan de Fuca.
The MV Coho can accommodate up to 110 vehicles and 1,000 passengers, making it a convenient option for travellers with motorcycles, cars, trucks, trailers & motorhomes.
Onboard amenities include a cafeteria, gift shop, duty-free store, comfortable interior lounges, solarium, and pet-friendly areas, ensuring a pleasant journey for all passengers.
Upon arrival in Victoria’s Inner Harbour, passengers are greeted by the city’s historic architecture and vibrant culture, making the MV Coho a popular choice for those seeking a seamless and scenic travel experience between the United States and Vancouver Island.
- 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.
Tips for Ferry Travel:
• Make reservations during peak travel seasons to secure your spot.
• Watch the weather. Storms can cause cancellations and delays.
Bus/Coach
Travelling from Downtown Vancouver to Downtown Victoria by bus and ferry is a seamless and scenic journey that combines convenience with stunning views.
Your trip begins in Vancouver’s bustling city center, where a comfortable, modern bus leaves for your first leg of the journey.
Once aboard the ferry, you’ll experience breathtaking views of the coastal waters, islands, and mountains, with the option to relax indoors or explore the open-air decks.
Upon arrival at the ferry terminal on Vancouver Island, the bus continues, delivering you directly to the heart of Victoria.
This hassle-free service eliminates the need for multiple tickets and transfers, making it an ideal choice for travellers looking for an efficient and enjoyable way to connect these two vibrant cities.
Float Planes and Helicopter Services
Travelling from Vancouver to Victoria by float plane or helicopter is a thrilling and efficient way to connect the two cities while taking in breathtaking views.
Departing from Vancouver’s waterfront, these services whisk you over the stunning landscapes of the Salish Sea, offering an aerial perspective of sparkling waters, lush islands, and snow-capped mountains.
The flight is quick—usually under 35 minutes—making it a perfect choice for those short on time or seeking a unique travel experience.
Landing directly in Victoria’s picturesque Inner Harbour, you’ll step off the aircraft just steps away from the city’s historic landmarks and vibrant downtown.
Whether you’re travelling for business or leisure, these services offer convenience, efficiency, and an unforgettable journey above the West Coast’s natural beauty.
- Harbour Air: Offers float plane services between downtown Vancouver and Victoria’s inner harbour.
- Helijet: Provides helicopter flights between downtown Vancouver and Victoria, perfect for those wanting a quick trip with breathtaking aerial views.
Once you have arrived, see our guide to getting around Victoria without a car for walkable routes, Harbour Ferries, BC Transit, and an easy no-car day plan.
Tours
Mill Hill Regional Par...
- 2km
- Moderate
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