Is there a direct bus?

No, you must take a ferry then connect to TransLink buses.

How long is the ferry?

The crossing typically takes 2 hours and 30 minutes.

Can I walk on the ferry?

Yes, foot passengers are welcome on all BC Ferries routes.

Is Coquitlam far from the terminal?

It is approximately 50 km from Tsawwassen to Coquitlam.

Are there hotels near the terminal?

No, the terminal is in a rural area; stay in Tsawwassen or Richmond.

Saturna

Coquitlam

Driving Ship

Saturna to Coquitlam

Updated: 29 May 2026

The journey from Saturna Island to Coquitlam requires a combination of maritime and road travel. You must first board a BC Ferries vessel from Lyall Harbour to Tsawwassen Ferry Terminal. From Tsawwassen, the route continues via Highway 17 and Highway 1 through the Lower Mainland. The total travel time is approximately 4 hours depending on ferry synchronization. This route connects the serene Gulf Islands to the bustling urban environment of the Tri-Cities. Expect scenic coastal views before transitioning to the dense traffic of the Trans-Canada Highway.

Total Distance: Driving distance 85 km, straight-line air distance 65 km.

Fastest Way

Driving your own vehicle from the ferry terminal takes roughly 1 hour 30 minutes.

Cheapest Way

BC Ferries combined with public transit (TransLink) costs approximately $45 total.

Compare Saturna to Coquitlam Routes

	Driving Direct	Ship Direct
Duration	1 hour 30 mins	2 hours 30 mins
Avg Price	$20 - $30	$40 - $60
Operator	Personal Vehicle	BC Ferries
Route	Highway 17 to Highway 1 East	Lyall Harbour to Tsawwassen Terminal
Tip	Avoid traveling during peak rush hour between 3 PM and 6 PM on Highway 1.	Book your ferry reservation in advance to avoid long wait times at the terminal.

Travel Tips

Ferry Reservations
Always reserve your spot on the ferry, especially during summer weekends.
Transit Apps
Use the TransLink app to track buses from the Tsawwassen terminal to Coquitlam.
Weather Check
Check the marine forecast before departing Saturna as high winds can delay ferries.
Fuel Up
Gas is limited on Saturna; fill your tank before boarding the ferry.
Traffic Planning
Use Google Maps to monitor Highway 1 congestion before leaving the terminal.

Safety Tips

Marine Safety
Follow all crew instructions during the ferry crossing.
Highway Vigilance
Stay alert for merging traffic on the Highway 1 interchange.
Emergency Kit
Keep a basic emergency kit in your vehicle for island travel.
Wildlife Awareness
Watch for deer on Saturna roads, especially during dawn and dusk.