Is there a direct bus?

No, you must take the ferry and then connect to the TransLink bus system.

How long is the ferry?

The crossing from Saturna to the mainland involves multiple legs and takes several hours.

Can I walk onto the ferry?

Yes, walk-on passengers are welcome and do not require vehicle reservations.

Yes, the ferry crossing offers stunning views of the Gulf Islands.

No, there are no tolls on the highways between Tsawwassen and Abbotsford.

Saturna

Abbotsford

Driving Ship

Saturna to Abbotsford

Updated: 30 May 2026

The journey from Saturna Island to Abbotsford requires a ferry crossing to the mainland followed by a drive through the Fraser Valley. You will take the ferry from Lyall Harbour to Swartz Bay, then connect to the Tsawwassen ferry, and finally drive east on Highway 1. This route connects the quiet Gulf Islands to the agricultural hub of Abbotsford. Expect a total travel time of 4 hours depending on ferry schedules.

Total Distance: Driving distance 80 km, straight-line air distance 60 km.

Fastest Way

Driving your own vehicle directly from the Tsawwassen terminal to Abbotsford.

Cheapest Way

Walk-on ferry passenger ticket combined with public transit bus connections.

Compare Saturna to Abbotsford Routes

	Driving Direct	Ship Connecting
Duration	1 hour 30 mins	2 hours 30 mins
Avg Price	40-70 CAD	20-30 CAD
Operator	Personal Vehicle	BC Ferries
Route	Highway 17 to Highway 1 East	Lyall Harbour to Swartz Bay to Tsawwassen
Tip	Traffic on Highway 1 through the Fraser Valley can be heavy during rush hour.	Check the ferry schedule carefully as Saturna sailings are less frequent.

Travel Tips

Ferry Reservations
Always reserve your ferry spot online to guarantee boarding during peak summer weekends.
Traffic Timing
Avoid driving through the Fraser Valley on Highway 1 between 3 PM and 6 PM to save time.
Transit Apps
Use the TransLink app to track bus connections from the ferry terminal.
Fuel Up
Fill your gas tank on the mainland as fuel prices are often higher on the islands.
Weather Check
Check the BC Ferries website for sailing cancellations due to high winds.

Safety Tips

Road Conditions
Monitor DriveBC for updates on highway construction or accidents.
Ferry Safety
Follow all crew instructions during the ferry crossing, especially when parking your vehicle.
Emergency Kits
Keep a basic emergency kit in your car for long ferry waits.
Wildlife
Watch for deer on the roads leading to the ferry terminals on Saturna Island.