Is there a train to Prince George?

VIA Rail operates the Jasper-Prince Rupert train, but it does not connect directly from Victoria.

How long is the ferry ride?

The Swartz Bay to Tsawwassen crossing takes approximately 1 hour and 35 minutes.

Are there direct flights?

No, all flights from Victoria to Prince George require a connection in Vancouver.

What is the best route?

The Coquihalla Highway (Hwy 5) to Kamloops, then Highway 97 north is the most efficient route.

Do I need a passport?

No, this is a domestic route within Canada; government-issued photo ID is sufficient.

Saanichton

Prince George

Flight Driving

Saanichton to Prince George

Updated: 27 May 2026

The journey from Saanichton to Prince George spans approximately 850 km, requiring a combination of ferry and road travel or a connecting flight. You must first take the BC Ferries route from Swartz Bay to Tsawwassen to reach the mainland. From the mainland, Highway 97 serves as the primary artery leading north through the Cariboo region. Driving takes roughly 12 hours of active transit time excluding ferry wait times. Alternatively, flying from Victoria International Airport (YYJ) to Prince George (YXS) involves a connection in Vancouver.

Total Distance: 850 km driving distance; 650 km straight-line air distance.

Fastest Way

Flying from YYJ to YXS takes 4.5 hours including the layover in Vancouver.

Cheapest Way

Driving is the most cost-effective for groups, costing approximately $150 in fuel and ferry fees.

Compare Saanichton to Prince George Routes

	Flight Connecting	Driving Connecting
Duration	4 hours 30 mins	14 hours
Avg Price	$400 - $700 CAD	$150 - $250 CAD
Operator	Air Canada / WestJet	BC Ferries / Personal Vehicle
Route	YYJ to YVR, then YVR to YXS.	Hwy 17 to Swartz Bay, Ferry to Tsawwassen, Hwy 10, Hwy 1, Hwy 5, Hwy 97.
Tip	Check baggage allowances as regional flights often have stricter weight limits.	Book your ferry reservation in advance to avoid long wait times at Swartz Bay.

Travel Tips

Ferry Reservations
Always book your BC Ferries slot online to guarantee boarding during peak summer weekends.
Highway 97 Conditions
Check DriveBC before departing, as mountain passes can experience sudden weather changes.
Fuel Stops
Fill up in Kamloops or Williams Lake, as stretches between towns on Highway 97 can be long.
Packing Layers
Northern BC temperatures fluctuate significantly; pack a warm jacket even in summer.
Emergency Kit
Carry a basic roadside emergency kit including water, snacks, and a flashlight for the long drive.

Safety Tips

Wildlife Awareness
Watch for moose and deer on Highway 97, especially during dawn and dusk.
Winter Driving
Winter tires are legally required on most BC highways from October to April.
Cell Coverage
Expect dead zones between Cache Creek and Prince George; download offline maps.
Fatigue Management
Take breaks every two hours to avoid driver fatigue on the long northern route.