Ferries from
Canada to Vancouver Island
Ferries from
Canada to Vancouver Island
There are 3 ferry routes. Ferries from Horseshoe Bay to Departure Bay and Tsawwassen to Swartz Bay are popular ferry trips from Canada to Vancouver Island. Sailing frequency can change throughout the year and often sailings increase during peak season.
Ferries from Canada to Vancouver Island sail approximately 187 times per week and are available with BC Ferries.
The ferry from Canada to Vancouver Island takes between 1 hour 35 minutes and 2 hours depending on the ferry route, operator, and ship that you choose.
The fastest ferry from Canada to Vancouver Island is on the Tsawwassen to Swartz Bay ferry with BC Ferries in 1 hour 35 minutes.
Yes, there are car ferries available from Canada to Vancouver Island with BC Ferries.
There are approximately 23 miles (37km) and 20 nautical miles between Canada and Vancouver Island.
The price of a ferry from Canada to Vancouver Island can differ by route, operator, season, vehicle type and whether you are sailing on a high-speed ferry or conventional ferry.
The Horseshoe Bay to Departure Bay ferry ferry sails approximately 53 times weekly with a crossing time of 1 hour 40 minutes.
Tsawwassen to Swartz Bay ferry ferries sail about 85 times weekly with a sailing time of 1 hour 35 minutes.
We suggest that you book in advance to ensure that you get the cheapest ferry prices and availability. Please check out our special offers page to take advantage of all the latest ferry discounts available.
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Canada is the second largest country in the world by total area, bordering the United States to the south. Not only is Canada blessed with one of the most breathtaking natural landscapes in the world, it brings a diverse culture and a variety of vibrant cities to the table as well. It’s a haven for any kind of traveller; you can spot orcas along the west coast, ski down Whistler Mountain, explore Colonial landmarks or sample some exquisite French cuisine in a buzzing metropolis. With the British Columbian shoreline stretching over 25,000 km and the islands of Graham and Victoria found just off the coast, there are plenty of ferry departure points to choose from. There are numerous routes available too, both international and domestic, all operated by top quality ferry companies.
Vancouver Island sits just off the west coast of Canada in the Pacific Ocean, part of the British Columbia province. As the largest landmass on the west coast of North America, with a population of just over 750,000, Vancouver Island is a massive wilderness with one of the world’s most diverse ecosystems, scattered with fishing communities and villages along the craggy coastline. It’s also one of the best places to watch whales on the planet, while offering great kayaking opportunities in summer and excellent skiing in winter. The state capital, Victoria, stands proudly on the southern tip, close to the United States border, known for its British colonial architecture, fairy-tale Craigdarroch Castle and vibrantly coloured Butchart Gardens. The easiest way to reach Vancouver Island from mainland Canada is by ferry, with regular routes to ports on the north coast, all the way down to Victoria in the south. Ferries also link the island with the United States, with frequent crossings from Seattle.
