How long is the ferry ride?

The sailing from Tsawwassen to Duke Point takes approximately 2 hours.

Do I need a reservation?

It is highly recommended to avoid long wait times at the terminal.

Can I walk on the ferry?

Yes, walk-on passengers are welcome on all sailings.

Is there a bus to the terminal?

Yes, TransLink provides bus service to the Tsawwassen Ferry Terminal.

What is the best time to travel?

Mid-week, mid-day sailings are usually the least crowded.

Langley Twp

Nanaimo

Driving Ship

Langley Twp to Nanaimo

Updated: 30 May 2026

The trip from Langley to Nanaimo involves a combination of driving and a ferry crossing. You will drive from Langley to the Tsawwassen Ferry Terminal, which takes about 45 to 60 minutes. From there, you board a BC Ferries vessel for a 2-hour sailing to Duke Point in Nanaimo. This is the most common route for travelers heading to central Vancouver Island. Total travel time is approximately 3.5 to 4 hours, including terminal wait times.

Total Distance: 65 km driving + 40 km ferry distance.

Fastest Way

Driving to the ferry terminal and taking a reserved sailing is the fastest method.

Cheapest Way

Driving to the terminal and taking the ferry is the standard and most practical way.

Compare Langley Twp to Nanaimo Routes

	Driving Direct	Ship Direct
Duration	1 hour (to terminal)	2 hours (sailing time)
Avg Price	$30-$50 in fuel	$60-$100 (vehicle + driver)
Operator	Personal Vehicle	BC Ferries
Route	Highway 10 to Highway 17.	Tsawwassen Terminal to Duke Point Terminal.
Tip	Arrive at the terminal at least 45 minutes before your scheduled sailing.	Reservations are highly recommended for all sailings to avoid long waits.

Travel Tips

Reservations
Book your ferry spot online weeks in advance for peak summer travel.
Terminal Arrival
Check in at the terminal 45 minutes before departure to guarantee your spot.
Traffic
Allow extra time for traffic on Highway 17 leading to the terminal.
Food
The ferry has a cafeteria, but prices are higher than on land.
Weather
Check the BC Ferries website for sailing cancellations due to high winds.

Safety Tips

Ferry Safety
Follow all crew instructions during the boarding and disembarking process.
Driving
Be cautious of heavy traffic when exiting the ferry terminal in Nanaimo.
Emergency
Keep your vehicle's emergency brake engaged while parked on the ferry deck.
Communication
Cell service is available on the ferry, but can be spotty mid-crossing.