Do I need a reservation?

Highly recommended for vehicles.

Salt Spring Island

Victoria

Flight Ship

Salt Spring Island to Victoria

Updated: 27 May 2026

The most common route from Salt Spring Island to Victoria involves taking the BC Ferry from Fulford Harbour to Swartz Bay. The ferry crossing takes approximately 35 minutes, followed by a 30-minute drive down the Patricia Bay Highway (Highway 17). This is a reliable and scenic route used by locals daily. You can also take a seaplane from Ganges Harbour directly to Victoria's Inner Harbour for a faster, more expensive option.

Total Distance: 45 km total distance; 35 km straight-line air distance.

Fastest Way

A seaplane flight from Ganges to Victoria Inner Harbour takes only 20 minutes.

Cheapest Way

Taking the BC Ferry as a walk-on passenger is the most affordable way to reach Victoria.

Compare Salt Spring Island to Victoria Routes

	Flight Direct	Ship Direct
Duration	20 mins	35 mins (ferry) + 30 mins (drive)
Avg Price	$150-$250	$20-$40
Operator	Harbour Air	BC Ferries
Route	Ganges Harbour to Victoria Inner Harbour.	Fulford Harbour to Swartz Bay, then Highway 17 to Victoria.
Tip	This is the fastest way to travel between the two locations.	Always book your ferry reservation in advance during peak season.

Travel Tips

Ferry Reservations
Book your ferry spot online to avoid long wait times at the terminal.
Public Transit
BC Transit buses run frequently from Swartz Bay to downtown Victoria.
Parking
Parking in downtown Victoria can be expensive; use parkades for better rates.
Walking
Victoria is a very walkable city; leave your car at the hotel.
Check Schedules
Ferry schedules change seasonally; check the BC Ferries website before leaving.

Safety Tips

Ferry Safety
Follow all crew instructions during the boarding and disembarking process.
Highway 17
The Patricia Bay Highway is busy; stay alert for merging traffic.
Pedestrian Safety
Victoria has many crosswalks; always yield to pedestrians.
Weather
Coastal weather can change quickly; bring a rain jacket.