Is Victoria on an island?

Yes, Victoria is located on the southern tip of Vancouver Island.

How long is the ferry ride?

The ferry crossing between Tsawwassen and Swartz Bay takes approximately 95 minutes.

Can I drive from St. Andrews to Victoria?

Yes, but you must take a ferry from the mainland to Vancouver Island.

What is the best airport for Victoria?

Victoria International Airport (YYJ) is the most convenient.

St. Andrews

Victoria

Flight Ship

St. Andrews to Victoria

Updated: 27 May 2026

Reaching Victoria from St. Andrews requires a combination of air travel and maritime transit. You should fly from Saint John (YSJ) to Victoria International Airport (YYJ) via a connection in Toronto or Vancouver. Alternatively, fly to Vancouver (YVR) and take the BC Ferries service from Tsawwassen to Swartz Bay. This journey takes you from the Atlantic coast to the heart of Vancouver Island. It is a long-distance trip that requires careful coordination of flight and ferry schedules.

Total Distance: Driving distance is 5,900 km (including ferry); straight-line air distance is 4,450 km.

Fastest Way

Direct flight connection from Saint John to Victoria International Airport.

Cheapest Way

Flying to Vancouver and taking the bus/ferry combo is often cheaper than a direct flight to Victoria.

Compare St. Andrews to Victoria Routes

	Flight Connecting	Ship Direct
Duration	11 hours	1 hour 35 mins
Avg Price	$800 - $1,500	$20 - $80
Operator	Air Canada	BC Ferries
Route	YSJ to YYJ via Toronto (YYZ) or Vancouver (YVR).	Tsawwassen (Vancouver) to Swartz Bay (Victoria).
Tip	Flying directly into YYJ saves you the hassle of the ferry terminal.	Reservations are highly recommended for vehicles during peak summer weekends.

Travel Tips

Ferry Reservations
Always book your BC Ferries spot in advance if traveling with a vehicle.
Airport Transit
Use the YYJ Airport Shuttle to reach downtown Victoria easily.
Weather
Victoria has a mild climate, but rain is common; pack a waterproof jacket.
Island Time
Life moves at a slower pace on Vancouver Island; enjoy the relaxed atmosphere.
Whale Watching
Book a whale watching tour from the Inner Harbour for an unforgettable experience.

Safety Tips

Ferry Safety
Follow all crew instructions during the ferry crossing, especially regarding vehicle deck safety.
Pedestrian Safety
Victoria is very walkable, but be mindful of traffic in the busy downtown core.
Emergency Services
Dial 911 for any emergencies while on Vancouver Island.
Sun Protection
Even on cloudy days, UV rays can be strong near the water.