Is there a ferry from Vancouver Island?

No, there is no direct ferry from Sidney to Prince Rupert.

How do I get to the airport?

You must take the airport shuttle bus and ferry from downtown Prince Rupert.

Yes, the Skeena route is considered one of the most scenic train rides in Canada.

Can I drive to Prince Rupert?

Yes, Highway 16 connects Prince Rupert to the rest of the province.

What is the best time to visit?

Summer offers the best weather for outdoor activities and wildlife viewing.

Sidney

Prince Rupert

Train Flight

Sidney to Prince Rupert

Updated: 26 May 2026

Reaching Prince Rupert from Sidney requires a multi-modal approach involving a ferry to the mainland, followed by either a regional flight or a scenic train journey. You can fly from Victoria to Vancouver and then connect to a flight to Prince Rupert Airport. Alternatively, you can take the VIA Rail Skeena train from Jasper, which requires driving or flying to the interior first. The journey covers over 1,200 km. Prince Rupert is a major port city known for its proximity to the Great Bear Rainforest.

Total Distance: 1,250 km driving distance; 800 km straight-line air distance.

Fastest Way

Flight from Victoria to Prince Rupert via Vancouver takes approximately 4 hours total.

Cheapest Way

The VIA Rail Skeena train is the most cost-effective if you are already in the interior.

Compare Sidney to Prince Rupert Routes

	Train Direct	Flight Connecting
Duration	20 hours (from Jasper)	4 hours
Avg Price	$200 - $450	$400 - $700
Operator	VIA Rail	Air Canada
Route	Jasper to Prince Rupert	YYJ to YVR to YPR
Tip	The Skeena train runs three times a week; book well in advance.	Prince Rupert Airport is on Digby Island; a shuttle ferry is required to reach the city.

Travel Tips

Airport Shuttle
Remember that the airport is on an island; the shuttle bus/ferry is included in some airline tickets.
Rain Gear
Prince Rupert is one of the wettest cities in Canada; bring high-quality waterproof clothing.
Train Booking
VIA Rail tickets sell out quickly during the summer months.
Local Transit
The city is walkable, but a car is helpful for exploring surrounding areas.
Dining
Try the local seafood, especially the Dungeness crab, at restaurants in Cow Bay.

Safety Tips

Marine Safety
If taking boat tours, always wear a life jacket and follow the captain's instructions.
Bear Safety
If hiking outside the city, carry bear spray and know how to use it.
Weather Alerts
Coastal storms can cause flight delays; check your airline status frequently.
Walking at Night
Stick to well-lit areas in the downtown core after dark.