How long is the ferry from Pender Island to Tsawwassen?

The crossing typically takes about 2 hours, depending on the specific route and stops.

Can I take a bus from Tsawwassen to Surrey?

Yes, the 640 bus connects the Tsawwassen Ferry Terminal to the Scott Road SkyTrain station.

Is there a direct train to Surrey?

No, there is no direct train from Pender Island; you must use the ferry and road network.

How much does it cost to take a car on the ferry?

Vehicle fares vary based on size and season, usually starting around 60 CAD plus passenger fees.

Are there hotels near the Tsawwassen terminal?

There are limited accommodations directly at the terminal; most travelers head into Tsawwassen or Richmond.

Pender Island

Surrey

Driving Ship

Pender Island to Surrey

Updated: 28 May 2026

The journey from Pender Island to Surrey requires a combination of maritime and road travel. You must board a BC Ferries vessel at Otter Bay Terminal bound for Tsawwassen. Upon arrival at Tsawwassen, you will drive or take a bus via Highway 17 and Highway 10 to reach Surrey. The total distance is approximately 75 km including the ferry crossing. This route is the primary link for residents of the Southern Gulf Islands accessing the Lower Mainland.

Total Distance: Driving distance 75 km, straight-line air distance 55 km.

Fastest Way

Driving your own vehicle off the ferry allows for a total transit time of approximately 3 hours.

Cheapest Way

BC Ferries walk-on passenger fare combined with public transit bus 640 from Tsawwassen Exchange.

Compare Pender Island to Surrey Routes

	Driving Direct	Ship Direct
Duration	45 mins	2 hours 30 mins
Avg Price	20-30 CAD	25-50 CAD
Operator	Personal Vehicle	BC Ferries
Route	Highway 17 to Highway 10	Otter Bay to Tsawwassen Terminal
Tip	Traffic on Highway 10 can be heavy during afternoon rush hour near Cloverdale.	Book your ferry reservation in advance to avoid long wait times during peak weekends.

Travel Tips

Ferry Reservations
Always reserve your spot on the BC Ferries website at least two weeks ahead of your travel date.
Transit Cards
Use a Compass Card for seamless transfers between buses and the SkyTrain in Surrey.
Check Schedules
Ferry schedules change seasonally; verify your departure time on the BC Ferries app before leaving Pender Island.
Traffic Alerts
Check DriveBC for real-time updates on Highway 17 and Highway 10 congestion.
Packing
Bring layers, as the ferry deck can be windy and cold even on sunny days.

Safety Tips

Ferry Safety
Follow all crew instructions during the ferry crossing and remain in designated areas.
Road Conditions
Be cautious of heavy truck traffic on Highway 10 near the industrial zones.
Emergency Contacts
Keep the number for local road assistance saved in your phone for the drive from the terminal.
Weather Awareness
Fog can occasionally delay ferry sailings; check the BC Ferries website for service notices.