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Ways to get to Vancouver Island

 
January 16, 2020 ​  3 minute read

 
From ferries to helijets, there's lots of choices to travel to Vancouver Island.

If you’re thinking of moving to Vancouver Island, you may be intrigued with the mild climate, relaxed lifestyle and outdoor attractions. Should you also be worried about the ease of getting on and off the island?

The answer is no. Whether you like to travel by land, air or sea, there’s an option that will fit your needs.

BC Ferries

BC Ferries offers the cheapest options to travel by car or as a foot passenger to BC’s coastal and island communities. You’ll want to keep a sharp eye out for whales and dolphins as you enjoy the wonderful west coast scenery.

  • Vancouver to Victoria: 1 hour, 35 minutes
  • Vancouver to Nanaimo: 2 hours
  • West Vancouver to Nanaimo: 1 hour, 35 minutes

Victoria Clipper

The Victoria Clipper passenger ferry connects Seattle and Victoria with 2 hour, 45 minute daily sailings year round (twice daily during high season). Enjoy a meal and the panoramic views before docking at the Belleville terminal in the heart of downtown Victoria. There are also seasonal sailings to San Juan Island.

Black Ball Ferry Line

The M.V. Coho passenger and vehicle ferry connects Port Angeles, WA with downtown Victoria, BC. At 90 minutes, this is a great no-frills option. The schedule changes seasonally, so be sure to check out the sailing times.

Victoria International Airport and Nanaimo Airport

Flying is the most convenient way to get to the island. Victoria International Airport and Nanaimo Airport are the two largest airports, serviced by a number of major airlines. There are also several regional airports serving the island, such as CFB Comox and Campbell River Airport.

Harbour Air

It’s hard to beat the fast frequent service of Harbour Air, serving 12 destinations across the West Coast, including Vancouver Island. The downtown Vancouver terminal is conveniently located in Coal Harbour. Harbour Air also has a Vancouver Airport terminal to provide easy connections to Vancouver International Airport.

Helijet Airways

Another fast and affordable way to go to and from the island is by helijet. Based in Vancouver, this helicopter airline and charter service is an enjoyable way to travel to Victoria and Nanaimo. Check out their options for scheduled and charter flights.