Can I drive to Victoria?

Yes, but you must take a ferry from the mainland.

How long is the ferry?

The crossing takes approximately 95 minutes.

Is there a direct flight?

No, you must connect through Vancouver or another hub.

What is the best way to get around?

Victoria is very walkable, but a car is useful for visiting the island.

Do I need a reservation?

For vehicles on the ferry, yes, it is highly recommended.

Port Hawkesbury

Victoria

Flight Ship

Port Hawkesbury to Victoria

Updated: 31 May 2026

Reaching Victoria from Port Hawkesbury involves a multi-modal journey across Canada. You must first fly from Halifax to Vancouver (YVR), then take a shuttle to the Tsawwassen Ferry Terminal. From there, board a BC Ferries vessel for a 90-minute crossing to Swartz Bay, followed by a short drive to downtown Victoria. This journey covers the entire width of the country and ends with a scenic coastal ferry ride. It is the most common way to reach the capital of British Columbia from the East Coast.

Total Distance: Driving distance 6,100 km, straight-line air distance 4,550 km.

Fastest Way

Connecting flight from Vancouver to Victoria (YYJ) is the fastest method.

Cheapest Way

Flying to Vancouver and taking the bus/ferry combo is the most economical.

Compare Port Hawkesbury to Victoria Routes

	Flight Connecting	Ship Direct
Duration	12 hours	1 hour 35 mins
Avg Price	$600 - $1,100	$20 - $80
Operator	Air Canada	BC Ferries
Route	YHZ to YVR, then ferry to Victoria.	Tsawwassen to Swartz Bay.
Tip	You can also book a connecting flight from Vancouver to Victoria (YYJ).	Reservations are highly recommended for vehicles during summer.

Travel Tips

Ferry Booking
Book your ferry spot online to avoid long wait times at the terminal.
Transit
Use the BC Ferries Connector bus for seamless travel from YVR to Victoria.
Weather
Victoria is mild, but always carry a rain jacket regardless of the season.
Seaplanes
Consider a seaplane flight from downtown Vancouver to downtown Victoria for speed.
Luggage
Keep your luggage manageable for the ferry transfer.

Safety Tips

Ferry Safety
Follow all crew instructions during the ferry crossing.
Driving
Be aware of cyclists on Victoria roads, as it is a very bike-friendly city.
Emergency
Dial 911 for any emergencies in British Columbia.
Sun Protection
The sun can be strong on the water; wear sunscreen on the ferry deck.