How long is the ferry?

The ferry crossing from Tsawwassen to Swartz Bay takes 1 hour and 35 minutes.

There is no direct bus service from Castlegar to Victoria.

Yes, you can fly from Castlegar to Victoria with a connection in Vancouver.

The ferry has a fare, but there are no road tolls on this route.

Is it a scenic drive?

Yes, the drive through the Kootenays is very scenic.

Castlegar

Victoria

Flight Driving

Castlegar to Victoria

Updated: 31 May 2026

The journey from Castlegar to Victoria involves a 750 km drive to the coast followed by a ferry crossing. You will travel west on Highway 3 and Highway 3A to the Lower Mainland, then take the BC Ferries service from Tsawwassen to Swartz Bay. The total travel time is approximately 10 hours, including the ferry sailing. This route takes you through the scenic mountain passes of the Kootenays and the busy corridors of the Lower Mainland.

Total Distance: 750 km driving distance; 450 km straight-line air distance.

Fastest Way

Flying is the fastest way, taking 3 hours total.

Cheapest Way

Driving your own vehicle is the most economical option for groups.

Compare Castlegar to Victoria Routes

	Flight Connecting	Driving Direct
Duration	3 hours (including layover)	10 hours
Avg Price	250-450 CAD	150-200 CAD (including ferry)
Operator	Air Canada / WestJet	Personal Vehicle + BC Ferries
Route	Castlegar (YCG) to Victoria (YYJ) via Vancouver.	Highway 3 to Highway 1, then BC Ferry to Victoria.
Tip	Flying is significantly faster than driving and taking the ferry.	Book your ferry reservation in advance to avoid long wait times.

Travel Tips

Ferry Reservations
Always book your BC Ferries reservation online to guarantee your spot.
Highway 3
Be prepared for winding mountain roads between Castlegar and Hope.
Traffic
Expect heavy traffic when entering the Vancouver area; plan your timing accordingly.
Packing
Bring layers, as the coastal weather can be cooler than the interior.
Arrival
The ferry arrives in Swartz Bay, which is about 30 minutes from downtown Victoria.

Safety Tips

Mountain Driving
Use low gears on steep descents to maintain control.
Ferry Safety
Follow all crew instructions during the ferry boarding and disembarking process.
Fatigue
Take breaks every 2-3 hours to stay alert on the long drive.
Emergency Kit
Keep a basic emergency kit in your vehicle for the mountain sections.