Ferries from Seattle to Vancouver
This ferry connection has eight daily sailings to bring you from Swartz Bay to Tsawwassen (or the other way around). Both city centers (Victoria and Vancouver) can be reached about 30 minutes from the ferry terminals.
How to Get to Vancouver from Seattle.
The city of Vancouver, Canada, is not located on Vancouver Island, meaning it can be reached directly by land from Seattle. The most common travel options include:
- By Car: The fastest and most convenient option, taking just under 3 hours via BC Highway 99 (subject to border wait times).
- By Train: The Amtrak Cascades service takes approximately 4 hours, offering scenic views along the way.
- By Bus: Several bus companies operate between the two cities, with an average travel time of 4 hours.
What About Ferries?
There is no direct ferry from Seattle to Vancouver, as ferry services cannot compete with the faster highway route. However, there are ferry options if you plan to visit Vancouver Island along the way:
- Want to visit Vancouver Island (Victoria) instead? Check this guide for ferry options.
- Interested in a two-ferry route to Vancouver via Vancouver Island? This guide explains how to take a ferry to Victoria and then another to Vancouver.
Map: ferries to Vancouver
The Victoria / Seattle ferry is a ferry with lots of possible upgrades. They are expensive but sitting upstairs provides a better experience. The fare goes all the way from a Standard fare to a panorama fare or VIP fare. Personally we would go for the Economy Panoramic chairs and try to get a spot near the front. Vista Class we like the least.
This ferry connection has eight daily sailings to bring you from Swartz Bay to Tsawwassen (or the other way around). Both city centers (Victoria and Vancouver) can be reached about 30 minutes from the ferry terminals.
About the ferries
Traveling to Vancouver Island from Seattle β With or Without a Car
- With a car:
- Drive 3 hours to Port Angeles.
- Take the Black Ball Ferry (M.V. Coho) to Victoria.
- Without a car:
- Take the Clipper Ferry from downtown Seattle to Victoria (passenger-only).
Traveling from Vancouver Island to Vancouver
- If you arrive in Victoria:
- Take a bus or shuttle from downtown Victoria to Swartz Bay Ferry Terminal.
- Take a BC Ferry to Vancouver (Tsawwassen Terminal).
- If you arrive in Nanaimo:
- Take the BC Ferry from Nanaimo (Departure Bay) to Vancouver (Horseshoe Bay).
Important Notes
- The Anacortes to Sidney ferry route is currently suspended.
- BC Ferry fares are the same for both the Victoria-Vancouver and Nanaimo-Vancouver routes.
- If you donβt have a car, public transport and shuttles are available to ferry terminals.
This ferry connection has eight daily sailings to bring you from Swartz Bay to Tsawwassen (or the other way around). Both city centers (Victoria and Vancouver) can be reached about 30 minutes from the ferry terminals.
From Nanaimo to Horseshoe Bay, a connection that sails multiple times daily. The ferry ride takes about 2 hours ( a bit less), all things you need to know about this ferry.
On board, vessels & route maps
Booking Your Ferry Tickets
You can compare prices, timetables, and availability using the online booking system with just a few clicks. Enter your travel dates and select the crossing that best suits your needs. Itβs simple and saves time.
Pro Tip: During peak seasons, ferries can book up quickly. Secure your tickets early, especially if traveling with a vehicle.
Victoria Island does not exist, please rename it as you probably mean: Vancouver Island.
Thanks we made an error here, we also had an e-mail from someone with the same comment. It's sometimes difficult with talking about Vancouver Island while Vancouver is not on it!