ABOUT
VANCOUVER
ISLAND
Located across the Strait of Georgia on British Columbia's pacific west coast, Vancouver Island is a cruzy, scenic, 90-minute ferry from Vancouver. Along with being Canada’s largest pacific island, it is home to a handful of charming coastal communities peppered across the coast, as well as the province’s vibrant capital, Victoria, BC.
The island boasts the warmest climate in the country making it the perfect host for lush nature, diverse wildlife, stunning landscapes and ideal surfing conditions. It is the ultimate playground for travellers wanting to get off the beaten path to explore gorgeous forests, a bustling capital city, growing food scenes, view various wildlife such as whales and bears and ride the waves in the home of Canada’s surf capital. Vancouver Island makes for the quintessential BC getaway that will not disappoint.
How to get to Vancouver Island
Getting to Vancouver Island is pretty easy both from Vancouver and Seattle. The Victoria International Airport is located about 26 km north of the city with bus services running regularly to connect to downtown and other areas on the peninsula. Many international flights connect through Vancouver with other destinations flying direct from various cities within North America. If you aren't flying into Victoria, below are some other ways you can get here.
From Vancouver by ferry
Travelling via public transit from Vancouver involves taking a Skytrain, bus and ferry to arrive in Victoria.
From downtown Vancouver, take the Canada line south in the direction of the airport to Bridgeport Station. Once you arrive at Bridgeport Station, head down the stairs and wait for Bus #620 towards Tsawwassen Ferry Terminal Via Ladner Exchange. The bus will drop you off right at the ferry terminal where you can easily head inside and purchase your ferry ticket. Be sure to plan your trip so you arrive at least 15 minutes before the scheduled departure time as this is the latest they'll let foot passengers board.
Once you arrive at the Swartz Bay Ferry Terminal, catch bus #70 or #72 into the city. Below are some links to help you plan your trip.
Robby Benn via Instagram
Another option from Vancouver is taking a seaplane directly from downtown Vancouver or the YVR to downtown Victoria.
Although this is a pricier option, it's a fun and amazing experience to check out the view of the Pacific Ocean and Gulf Islands as you fly over the Strait of Georgia and will save you some time.
from vancouver by air
Direct ferry services. Check out their schedule and fares here:
from washington state (usa)
harbourair via Instagram