How long is the ferry?

The crossing takes approximately 1 hour and 35 minutes.

Yes, you can fly from Victoria International Airport to Vancouver.

Costs vary based on vehicle size and passenger count.

Do I need a passport?

No, this is a domestic route within Canada.

Yes, pets are allowed on the ferry in designated areas or vehicles.

Saanichton

Vancouver

Ship

Saanichton to Vancouver

Updated: 27 May 2026

Traveling from Saanichton to Vancouver requires a combination of road and sea transport. You must first travel to the Swartz Bay Ferry Terminal, located about 15 minutes north of Saanichton. From there, you board a BC Ferries vessel for a 95-minute crossing to the Tsawwassen terminal. Once in Tsawwassen, you can take the BC Transit bus or a shuttle into downtown Vancouver. The total travel time is approximately 4 hours.

Total Distance: 115 km including ferry; 85 km straight-line air distance.

Fastest Way

Driving your own vehicle onto the ferry, though wait times can vary.

Cheapest Way

BC Ferries walk-on passenger fare combined with public transit buses.

Compare Saanichton to Vancouver Routes

Ship

Connecting

Duration

4 hours

Avg Price

20-80 CAD

Operator

BC Ferries

Route

Swartz Bay to Tsawwassen via BC Ferries, then bus to Vancouver.

Book a vehicle reservation in advance during summer months to guarantee your spot.

Travel Tips

Ferry Reservations
Always book your ferry reservation online to avoid long wait times.
Arrival Time
Arrive at the ferry terminal at least 45 minutes before your scheduled sailing.
Transit Connections
Use the TransLink trip planner for seamless bus connections from Tsawwassen.
Food
The ferry has a cafeteria, but prices are higher; consider bringing snacks.
Wi-Fi
BC Ferries offers limited Wi-Fi on board, but cellular data is usually reliable.

Safety Tips

Ferry Safety
Follow all crew instructions during the boarding and disembarking process.
Life Jackets
Know the location of life jackets on the ferry deck for your peace of mind.
Driving
Be alert when driving off the ferry as traffic can be congested and fast-moving.
Emergency
In case of emergency on the water, notify a crew member immediately.