How much is the ferry?

The cost varies by vehicle size and number of passengers; check the BC Ferries website.

Flying is much faster but you will need to rent a car upon arrival in Nanaimo.

There are no road tolls, but the ferry is a paid service.

How long is the ferry ride?

The crossing takes approximately 1 hour and 40 minutes.

There is no continuous passenger rail service from Manitoba to Nanaimo.

Killarney

Nanaimo

Driving

Killarney to Nanaimo

Updated: 27 May 2026

The trip from Killarney to Nanaimo is a massive 2,500-kilometer cross-country journey. You will drive the Trans-Canada Highway through Manitoba, Saskatchewan, Alberta, and British Columbia. Upon reaching the BC coast, you must take a BC Ferry from Horseshoe Bay or Tsawwassen to Nanaimo. This trip typically takes 3 to 4 days of driving. It is one of the most scenic routes in Canada, crossing the Prairies, the Rockies, and the coastal mountains.

Total Distance: 2,500 km driving distance; 2,000 km straight-line air distance.

Fastest Way

Driving to Vancouver and taking the ferry is the standard route.

Cheapest Way

Driving is the most practical way to transport yourself and your belongings.

Compare Killarney to Nanaimo Routes

Driving

Direct

Duration

30 hours

Avg Price

$400-$500 in fuel

Operator

Personal Vehicle

Route

Trans-Canada Highway 1 to BC Ferry

Book your BC Ferry reservation in advance to avoid long wait times.

Travel Tips

Ferry Booking
Always book your BC Ferry crossing online to guarantee your spot on the vessel.
Mountain Driving
Be prepared for steep grades and winding roads in the BC interior; use low gears.
Pack for All Seasons
You will experience everything from prairie heat to mountain snow, so pack layers.
Rest Stops
Plan your stops in major towns like Calgary, Revelstoke, and Kamloops.
Check Highway 1
Monitor DriveBC for updates on mountain pass closures or construction.

Safety Tips

Mountain Safety
Carry tire chains if traveling in late autumn or winter, as they are mandatory on many BC highways.
Wildlife
Be alert for bears and mountain goats near the roadside in the Rockies.
Fatigue
This is a multi-day trip; do not attempt to drive it in one go.
Emergency Kit
Include a high-quality first aid kit and extra water for the long stretches between towns.