Is Victoria on an island?

Yes, Victoria is located on the southern tip of Vancouver Island.

How long is the ferry?

The ferry crossing takes about 95 minutes.

Can I drive to Victoria?

Yes, you can drive onto the ferry from the mainland.

Victoria is moderately priced compared to Vancouver.

What is the best time to visit?

Spring and summer offer the best weather for outdoor activities.

Chester

Victoria

Flight Ship

Chester to Victoria

Updated: 31 May 2026

Reaching Victoria from Chester requires a combination of air and sea travel. You will fly from Halifax (YHZ) to either Vancouver (YVR) or Victoria (YYJ). If you fly to Vancouver, you must take a BC Ferries vessel from Tsawwassen to Swartz Bay. This journey takes you from the Atlantic coast to the beautiful capital of British Columbia on Vancouver Island.

Total Distance: Driving distance 6,000 km; Air distance 4,600 km.

Fastest Way

Direct flight to Victoria International Airport (YYJ).

Cheapest Way

Flying to Vancouver and taking the bus/ferry is often cheaper than flying directly to Victoria.

Compare Chester to Victoria Routes

	Flight Connecting	Ship Direct
Duration	9 hours	1 hour 35 mins
Avg Price	$600 - $1,100 CAD	$20 - $80 CAD
Operator	Air Canada	BC Ferries
Route	YHZ to YYJ via Vancouver or Calgary.	Tsawwassen to Swartz Bay.
Tip	Flying directly into Victoria (YYJ) saves you the hassle of the ferry.	Reservations are highly recommended for vehicles during peak summer months.

Travel Tips

Ferry Booking
Book your BC Ferries spot online to avoid long wait times at the terminal.
Transit
Use the BC Transit bus system to get from Swartz Bay ferry terminal to downtown Victoria.
Weather
Victoria has a mild climate, but always bring a light jacket for the ocean breeze.
Walking
Victoria is a very walkable city, so bring comfortable shoes.
Whale Watching
Book a whale watching tour from the Inner Harbour for an unforgettable experience.

Safety Tips

Ferry Safety
Follow all crew instructions during the ferry crossing, especially during rough seas.
Pedestrian Safety
Use designated crosswalks in the busy downtown area.
Emergency
Keep emergency contacts saved in your phone.
Sun Protection
The sun can be strong near the water, so wear sunscreen.