How to get to victoria from vancouver?

By HotBotUpdated: September 30, 2024

Answer

Introduction

Traveling from Vancouver to Victoria is a journey that can be both scenic and enjoyable, offering a variety of transportation options. Whether you prefer to travel by ferry, plane, bus, or a combination of these, there are several routes and methods to consider. Each mode of transport comes with its own set of advantages, costs, and travel times. This guide will cover all the available options, providing detailed information to help you choose the best way to travel to Victoria from Vancouver.

By Ferry

BC Ferries

One of the most popular ways to travel from Vancouver to Victoria is by ferry. BC Ferries operates regular services between Tsawwassen Ferry Terminal in Vancouver and Swartz Bay Ferry Terminal near Victoria.

Travel Time: The ferry ride itself takes about 1 hour and 35 minutes.
Cost: Approximately $17 for an adult passenger and $57 for a standard vehicle, but prices can vary depending on the season and time of day.
Schedule: Ferries typically run every 2 hours, but it's best to check the BC Ferries website for the most up-to-date schedule.

Getting to Tsawwassen Ferry Terminal

To get to the Tsawwassen Ferry Terminal from downtown Vancouver, you have several options:

Continue

Driving: It takes about 45 minutes to drive from downtown Vancouver to Tsawwassen. Follow signs for Highway 99 South and take exit 28 for Tsawwassen.
Public Transit: You can take the SkyTrain's Canada Line to Bridgeport Station, then transfer to the 620 bus, which goes directly to the ferry terminal. The total transit time is approximately 1 hour and 20 minutes.

Arriving at Swartz Bay

Once you arrive at Swartz Bay, you have several options to get to downtown Victoria:

Driving: It takes about 30 minutes to drive from Swartz Bay to downtown Victoria. Follow signs for Highway 17 South.
Public Transit: BC Transit offers bus services (routes 70, 71, and 72) that go from Swartz Bay to downtown Victoria. The bus ride takes about 1 hour.
Taxi: Taxis are available at the terminal and can take you to downtown Victoria in about 30 minutes.

By Air

Seaplane

For a quicker and more scenic journey, consider taking a seaplane from Vancouver to Victoria. Companies like Harbour Air and Seair Seaplanes offer frequent daily flights.

Travel Time: The flight takes about 35 minutes.
Cost: Prices range from $150 to $200 per passenger, depending on the time of day and season.
Departure and Arrival: Flights depart from Vancouver Harbour Flight Centre and arrive at Victoria's Inner Harbour.

Helicopter

Helijet offers helicopter services between Vancouver and Victoria, providing a fast and luxurious travel option.

Travel Time: The helicopter ride takes about 35 minutes.
Cost: Approximately $250 to $300 per passenger.
Departure and Arrival: Helicopters depart from Vancouver Harbour Heliport and arrive at Victoria Harbour Heliport.

By Bus

Direct Bus Services

Several companies, including BC Ferries Connector and Wilson's Transportation, offer direct bus services from Vancouver to Victoria. These buses usually include the ferry ride in their ticket price.

Travel Time: Approximately 4 hours, including the ferry ride.
Cost: Around $60 to $80 per passenger, depending on the service and time of year.
Departure and Arrival: Buses typically depart from downtown Vancouver and arrive in downtown Victoria.

Public Transit Combination

For a more budget-friendly option, you can use a combination of public transit services:

Take the SkyTrain's Canada Line to Bridgeport Station.
Transfer to the 620 bus to Tsawwassen Ferry Terminal.
Take the BC Ferry to Swartz Bay.
From Swartz Bay, take a BC Transit bus to downtown Victoria.

Driving

Direct Drive and Ferry

If you prefer to drive, you can take your car on the BC Ferry:

Drive to Tsawwassen Ferry Terminal, approximately 45 minutes from downtown Vancouver.
Take the ferry to Swartz Bay, a 1 hour and 35 minutes journey.
Drive from Swartz Bay to downtown Victoria, about 30 minutes.

Reservations

It is highly recommended to make a reservation for your vehicle on the ferry, especially during peak travel times. This can be done through the BC Ferries website.

Unique and Lesser-Known Options

Private Boat Charter

For those looking for a unique and private experience, consider chartering a private boat. Several companies offer charter services from Vancouver to Victoria, allowing you to customize your journey.

Travel Time: Varies, but typically around 3 to 4 hours.
Cost: Prices can range from $500 to $2000, depending on the type of boat and services included.

Cycling

For the adventurous, cycling from Vancouver to Victoria is an option:

Cycle to Tsawwassen Ferry Terminal (approximately 36 km from downtown Vancouver).
Take the ferry to Swartz Bay.
Cycle from Swartz Bay to Victoria (approximately 32 km).

This route is best suited for experienced cyclists and offers a scenic and physically challenging journey.

The journey from Vancouver to Victoria can be as quick or leisurely as you want it to be, with options to suit every traveler’s needs. Whether you choose the convenience of a plane, the scenic beauty of a ferry ride, or the adventure of cycling, each route offers its own unique experience. The choice is yours.