How do I get to Nanaimo?

Drive to Vancouver and take a BC Ferry, or fly directly to Nanaimo Airport.

Is the ferry expensive?

Prices vary by vehicle size and number of passengers.

How long is the ferry?

The crossing takes approximately 1 hour and 40 minutes.

No, there is no passenger rail service to Nanaimo.

Yes, it is a multi-day drive across Canada.

Oliver Paipoonge

Nanaimo

Flight Driving

Oliver Paipoonge to Nanaimo

Updated: 30 May 2026

The journey from Oliver Paipoonge to Nanaimo is a cross-country trek of approximately 3,000 kilometers. You will drive the Trans-Canada Highway to the West Coast, then take a BC Ferries vessel from Horseshoe Bay or Tsawwassen to Nanaimo. Alternatively, you can fly from Thunder Bay to Vancouver and take a connecting flight or ferry to the island. This route is the ultimate Canadian road trip, ending with a scenic ferry ride across the Salish Sea.

Total Distance: 3,000 km driving distance, 2,500 km straight-line air distance.

Fastest Way

Flying from Thunder Bay to Nanaimo is the fastest, taking about 11 hours.

Cheapest Way

Driving is the most economical for a group of travelers.

Compare Oliver Paipoonge to Nanaimo Routes

	Flight Connecting	Driving Direct
Duration	11 hours including layover	35 hours driving time
Avg Price	$700-$1,300	$650-$900 in fuel
Operator	Air Canada	Personal Vehicle
Route	Thunder Bay (YQT) to Vancouver (YVR) then ferry or flight to Nanaimo.	Highway 17 to Highway 1, then BC Ferry to Nanaimo.
Tip	Flying into Nanaimo (YCD) is faster than taking the ferry from Vancouver.	Book your ferry reservation in advance during peak season.

Travel Tips

Ferry Reservations
Essential for summer travel to avoid long wait times at the terminal.
Island Driving
Be aware that island roads are often slower than mainland highways.
Packing
Bring layers as the coastal weather is unpredictable.
Fuel
Gas is generally more expensive on Vancouver Island than in the interior.
Time Management
Factor in ferry boarding times when planning your arrival.

Safety Tips

Ferry Safety
Follow all crew instructions during the crossing.
Road Safety
Watch for cyclists on island roads.
Weather
Check ferry status online before heading to the terminal.
Emergency Kit
Keep a basic emergency kit in your car for the long drive.