Victoria is one of the easiest and most rewarding trips you can take from Vancouver! With its oceanfront setting, relaxed pace, and incredible wildlife, it feels like a true getaway without going far. There are plenty of ways to get here, from scenic ferry rides to quick flights and downtown seaplanes, each offering its own unique experience:
BC Ferries
Route: Tsawwassen (Vancouver) → Swartz Bay (Victoria)
Sailing time: approximately 1 hour 35 minutes
Driving directions:
- From downtown Vancouver to Tsawwassen Terminal: approximately 45 minutes (expect traffic, longer during rush hour or weekends)
- From Swartz Bay to downtown Victoria: approximately 35–40 minutes
Important tips:
- Arrive 45–60 minutes early
- Expect heavy traffic on summer weekends and holidays
- Reservations are strongly recommended if travelling with a vehicle
Terminal addresses:
- Tsawwassen Ferry Terminal: 1 Ferry Causeway, Delta, BC
- Swartz Bay Terminal: 11300 Patricia Bay Hwy, Sidney, BC
Seaplanes (Downtown to Downtown)
Fastest and most scenic option. Departs from Vancouver Harbour and lands in Victoria Inner Harbour. Harbour Air, Kenmore Air and Sea Air all provide a speedy service!
- Flight time: approximately 30–35 minutes
- Frequency: Multiple daily departures
Departure & arrival locations:
- Vancouver Harbour Flight Centre: 1055 Canada Place, Vancouver, BC
- Victoria Inner Harbour: 950 Wharf St, Victoria, BC
Why choose a seaplane:
- Downtown to downtown convenience
- No long transfers or driving time to account for
- Incredible aerial views of the Gulf Islands!
Helicopter
Operator: HeliJet
Flight time: approximately 35 minutes
Locations:
- Vancouver Terminal: 455 W Waterfront Rd, Vancouver, BC
- Victoria Terminal: 79 Dallas Rd, Victoria, BC
Highlights:
- Fast and reliable, even in lower visibility conditions
- Premium experience with comfortable seating
Commercial Flights (YVR → YYJ)
Airlines: WestJet, Air Canada, Flair, others
Flight time: approximately 30 minutes
Route:
- Depart: Vancouver International Airport (YVR)
- Arrive: Victoria International Airport (YYJ)
Travel time considerations:
- Add 1–2 hours for airport security and boarding
- YYJ to downtown Victoria: approximately 25–30 minute drive
Airport addresses:
- YVR: 3211 Grant McConachie Way, Richmond, BC
- YYJ: 1640 Electra Blvd, North Saanich, BC
If you have any questions, please call or email our Reservations team, and they will be pleased to assist you in planning your trip with us!