Victoria

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Ferry

Ferries are a key mode of transportation for connecting Victoria to mainland British Columbia and nearby islands.

Sections

1. Major Ferry Services in Victoria

BC Ferries

BC Ferries is the primary ferry operator in British Columbia and provides extensive service to and from Vancouver Island, including routes to Victoria. It is one of the largest ferry operators in the world and offers reliable, year-round service.

  • Main Route to Victoria:

    • Tsawwassen (Vancouver) to Swartz Bay (Victoria):
      • This is the most popular route for travelers heading to Victoria from the mainland. Swartz Bay Terminal is located about 30 km (19 miles) north of downtown Victoria.
      • Duration: Approximately 1 hour and 35 minutes.
      • Frequency: Ferries run frequently, with departures roughly every 1-2 hours during peak times.
      • Scenic Highlights: The route passes through the Gulf Islands, offering stunning views of the coastline, islands, and marine life.

  • Other Routes Near Victoria:

    • Swartz Bay to Southern Gulf Islands (Salt Spring, Pender, Galiano, Mayne, and Saturna Islands):
      • These routes connect Victoria to the picturesque Gulf Islands, which are popular for day trips or longer stays.

Washington State Ferries

For travelers coming from the United States, Washington State Ferries operates a route between Anacortes, Washington, and Sidney, BC (near Victoria).

  • Route:
    • Anacortes (Washington) to Sidney (BC):
      • Sidney is about 30 minutes from downtown Victoria by car or bus.
      • Duration: Approximately 2 hours and 45 minutes.
      • Frequency: Seasonal service (spring to fall), with limited sailings compared to BC Ferries.
      • Scenic Highlights: This route passes through the San Juan Islands, offering breathtaking views and potential wildlife sightings.

Victoria Clipper

The Victoria Clipper is a high-speed passenger-only ferry connecting downtown Victoria to downtown Seattle, Washington.

  • Route:
    • Seattle (Washington) to Victoria (Inner Harbour):
      • This is a convenient option for travelers coming from Seattle.
      • Duration: Approximately 2 hours and 45 minutes.
      • Frequency: Daily service, with more frequent sailings during the summer.
      • Scenic Highlights: The ferry travels through the Strait of Juan de Fuca, offering views of the Olympic Mountains and the Pacific Northwest coastline.

Black Ball Ferry Line (MV Coho)

The MV Coho is a car and passenger ferry that connects Port Angeles, Washington, to downtown Victoria.

  • Route:
    • Port Angeles (Washington) to Victoria (Inner Harbour):
      • This route is popular with travelers from the Olympic Peninsula.
      • Duration: Approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes.
      • Frequency: Year-round service, with multiple daily sailings.
      • Scenic Highlights: The ferry crosses the Strait of Juan de Fuca, offering views of the Olympic Mountains and Victoria’s Inner Harbour.

2. Ticket Costs and Booking Procedures

BC Ferries

  • Fares (Tsawwassen to Swartz Bay):
    • Passenger (Adult): Approximately CAD $18.75.
    • Passenger (Child, 5-11 years): Approximately CAD $9.40.
    • Vehicle (Standard): Approximately CAD $61.50.
    • Bicycles: Additional CAD $2.00.
  • Booking:
    • Reservations are recommended, especially during peak travel times (summer, holidays, and weekends).
    • Book online at www.bcferries.com or by phone.
    • Walk-on passengers do not require reservations.

Washington State Ferries

  • Fares (Anacortes to Sidney):
    • Passenger (Adult): Approximately USD $21.00.
    • Passenger (Child, 6-18 years): Approximately USD $10.50.
    • Vehicle (Standard): Approximately USD $70.00.
  • Booking:

Victoria Clipper

  • Fares (Seattle to Victoria):
    • One-Way: Starting at USD $115.00 (varies by season and demand).
    • Round-Trip: Discounts are often available for round-trip bookings.
  • Booking:

Black Ball Ferry Line (MV Coho)

  • Fares (Port Angeles to Victoria):
    • Passenger (Adult): Approximately USD $21.00.
    • Passenger (Child, 5-11 years): Approximately USD $10.50.
    • Vehicle (Standard): Approximately USD $70.00.
  • Booking:
    • Reservations are available for vehicles but not required for walk-on passengers.
    • Book online at www.cohoferry.com.

3. Schedules

  • BC Ferries: Schedules vary by season, with more frequent sailings in the summer. Check the latest schedules on the BC Ferries website.
  • Washington State Ferries: Seasonal service; check the website for current schedules.
  • Victoria Clipper: Daily service, with additional sailings during peak seasons.
  • Black Ball Ferry Line: Year-round service with multiple daily sailings.

4. Connections and Transportation

  • From Swartz Bay Terminal (BC Ferries):

    • To Downtown Victoria:
      • BC Transit operates buses (Route 70 and 72) between Swartz Bay and downtown Victoria. The journey takes about 1 hour.
      • Taxis and rideshare services are also available.
    • To the Gulf Islands:
      • BC Ferries offers connecting sailings to the Southern Gulf Islands.

  • From Sidney (Washington State Ferries):

    • BC Transit buses connect Sidney to downtown Victoria.

  • From Victoria’s Inner Harbour (Victoria Clipper and MV Coho):

    • The Inner Harbour is centrally located, within walking distance of many hotels, attractions, and public transit options.

5. Scenic Routes and Recommendations

  • Scenic Highlights:

    • All ferry routes offer incredible views of the Pacific Northwest’s natural beauty, including islands, forests, and marine wildlife (e.g., seals, whales, and seabirds).
    • For the most scenic experience, consider traveling during daylight hours and sitting on the outdoor deck.

  • Travel Tips:

    • Arrive early, especially during peak travel times, to ensure smooth boarding.
    • Bring a camera or binoculars to capture the stunning scenery.
    • Pack snacks or enjoy onboard dining options (available on BC Ferries and some other services).

  • Day Trips:

    • Consider visiting the Gulf Islands (e.g., Salt Spring Island) for hiking, artisan markets, and charming villages.
    • From Victoria, you can also explore Butchart Gardens, located near Swartz Bay.

6. Additional Considerations

  • Customs and Border Crossing:

    • For ferries traveling between the US and Canada (e.g., Victoria Clipper, MV Coho, Washington State Ferries), passengers must go through customs and immigration. Ensure you have a valid passport or other required travel documents.

  • Weather:

    • Ferry schedules may be affected by weather conditions, especially during winter storms. Check for updates before traveling.

  • Accessibility:

    • Most ferries are wheelchair accessible, with elevators and designated seating areas.

By using this guide, you’ll be well-prepared to navigate the ferry systems in and around Victoria, Canada. Whether you’re traveling for leisure or commuting, the ferry experience is an essential and scenic part of exploring this beautiful region!