Is there a train to Victoria?

No, there is no direct train service to Victoria; you must take a ferry from the mainland.

How long is the ferry to Victoria?

The ferry crossing from Tsawwassen to Swartz Bay takes approximately 95 minutes.

Do I need a passport?

No, domestic travel within Canada does not require a passport, but government ID is needed for flights.

What is the best highway?

The Trans-Canada Highway (Highway 1) is the primary route across the country.

There are no major highway tolls on this route, but ferry fees apply.

Thessalon

Victoria

Flight Driving

Thessalon to Victoria

Updated: 29 May 2026

Traveling from Thessalon to Victoria covers approximately 4,500 km across the breadth of Canada. The most practical route involves driving to Sault Ste. Marie Airport (YAM) and flying to Victoria International Airport (YYJ). Alternatively, a multi-day drive via the Trans-Canada Highway (Highway 17 and Highway 1) offers a scenic cross-country experience. You will cross the Canadian Shield, the Prairies, and the Rocky Mountains. Expect a total travel time of 8 hours by air or 50 hours of pure driving time.

Total Distance: Driving distance 4,550 km; Air distance 3,350 km.

Fastest Way

Flight from Sault Ste. Marie (YAM) to Victoria (YYJ) takes 8 hours.

Cheapest Way

Driving with multiple passengers is the most cost-effective method.

Compare Thessalon to Victoria Routes

	Flight Connecting	Driving Direct
Duration	8 hours	50 hours
Avg Price	$600 - $1,100	$800 - $1,200 in fuel
Operator	Air Canada	Personal Vehicle
Route	YAM to YYZ to YYJ	Highway 17 to Highway 1
Tip	Book your flight from Sault Ste. Marie to avoid the long drive to Toronto.	Ensure you have winter tires if traveling outside summer months.

Travel Tips

Ferry Booking
Book your BC Ferries reservation in advance for the Tsawwassen to Swartz Bay route.
Time Zones
Remember you will cross three time zones moving from Eastern to Pacific time.
Highway 17
The stretch between Sault Ste. Marie and Thunder Bay is remote; keep your gas tank full.
Packing
Bring layers as the weather in Victoria is much milder than in Northern Ontario.
Navigation
Download offline maps as cellular service is spotty in Northern Ontario.

Safety Tips

Wildlife
Watch for moose and deer on Highway 17, especially during dawn and dusk.
Road Conditions
Check 511 Ontario and DriveBC for real-time road closures.
Emergency Kit
Carry a winter survival kit including blankets and non-perishable food.
Fatigue
Plan for overnight stops in major cities like Winnipeg or Regina to avoid driver fatigue.