Upon arriving at Vancouver Island, drive 30 minutes south from Swartz Bay to downtown Victoria. If taking public transit between downtown Vancouver and Victoria, allow about 4.5 hours each way, including the 90 minute BC Ferries crossing (see above for details) between the mainland and Vancouver Island.
Can you do a day trip to Vancouver Island?
Victoria is the perfect starting point for day trips that allow you to explore Vancouver Island and the Gulf Islands. Of course, you’ll want to spend some time in Victoria too, so be sure to give yourself at least a long weekend to make the most of this corner of the world.
Can you go to Victoria island for a day?
Yes, you can do Victoria (and Butchart Gardens) in a day. You can do a one day bus tour (check out www.pacificcoach.com). They have a tour that takes you to Butcharts for 2 hours, then drops you off in downtown Victoria to explore on your own and your return is open.
How long is the boat ride from Vancouver to Vancouver Island?
90 minutes to two hours
The ferry crossings between Vancouver (Tsawwassen and Horseshoe Bay) and Vancouver Island (Victoria and Nanaimo) take 90 minutes to two hours, depending on which route you take.
Can you get around Vancouver Island without a car?
The best way to get around Victoria & Vancouver Island is by bike or car. Central Victoria – especially the Inner Harbour – can easily be explored on foot, while bike paths will lead you to less touristy neighborhoods.
Is it worth going to Vancouver Island?
Combined with endless outdoor recreation options and extensive wildlife opportunities (orcas and bears anyone?), it is a great place to visit at any time of year. Take a few weeks or a couple of days, either way, you’ll definitely have a unique adventure.
How long do you need on Vancouver Island?
We think two weeks is the ideal amount of time to spend on a Vancouver Island Road Trip. During this time, you can do everything a 5-day trip would experience and MORE. You will have more time to take longer hikes and reach farther places, exploring more parts of the island!
Can you do a day trip from Vancouver to Victoria?
Easily accessible from Vancouver, Victoria is the perfect day trip. Wander the quaint downtown core with its British colonial architecture to shop, sightsee, admire heritage buildings, visit stunning gardens, then relax over afternoon tea.
How long is the ferry ride from Vancouver to Victoria island?
The ferry ride takes approximately 90 minutes, and the trip from the cities to the ferry terminals can take anywhere from 45 to 75 minutes each, depending on the mode of transportation chosen.
How do I get from Vancouver to Vancouver Island?
Ferry Services from Vancouver, BC
BC Ferries is the main connection between Vancouver Island and the mainland (Vancouver). When coming from Vancouver, you have a few options available to you. West Vancouver (Horseshoe Bay terminal), Tsawwassen terminal, or via the Sunshine Coast (Powell River).
Are seniors free on BC Ferries?
B.C. seniors 65 or older, possessing either a BC Gold Carecard or a valid BC Services Card, receive a 100% discount on passenger fares Monday to Thursday, excluding statutory holidays on all routes, except the northern routes.
How do I get from Vancouver to Victoria without a car?
To make the crossing in a decidedly West Coast way, fly with Harbour Air Seaplanes. Take off in the Vancouver harbour, and land about 40 minutes later in the Victoria harbour. The quick flight leaves you plenty of time to experience Victoria for a day, and frequent departures allow for lots of flexibility.
Do you need a car on Victoria island?
Victoria is truly walkable. The Inner Harbour and downtown core are best explored on foot, but there are several other types of transportation. From horse drawn carriage to double-decker bus, find transportation for your preferred pace.
How do I get from Vancouver to Vancouver Island without a car?
Sure, you can take a taxi or shuttle from Vancouver International Airport (YVR), but a faster and cheaper option is the SkyTrain, a rapid transit system that connects YVR with downtown Vancouver and the waterfront (near the Canada Place cruise ship terminal).
What is the best month to visit Vancouver?
The best times to visit Vancouver are from March to May and from September to November when the weather is mild and hotel rooms can be found at bargain rates.
How many days should I spend in Vancouver?
Re: How many days should I stay in Vancouver? I recommend staying at least four or five days in Vancouver. There’s so much to see and do. Definitely reserve one day to go on the Day Tour of Victoria and Butchard Gardens.
What is the nicest part of Vancouver Island?
Top places to visit on Vancouver Island
- Tofino. This surf town on the island’s West Coast is a real little gem.
- Victoria. Victoria is Vancouver Island’s largest city and is also the capital of British Columbia.
- Hot Springs Cove.
- Pacific Rim National Park.
- Comox Valley.
- Gulf Islands.
- Chemainus – Cowichan Valley.
- Port Hardy.
What is the most beautiful part of Vancouver Island?
Mystic Beach is arguably one of the most scenic beaches on Vancouver Island and definitely one of the most beautiful along the Straight of Juan de Fuca.
Why is Vancouver Island so popular?
Vancouver Island is renowned for wild, untamed beaches that are an idyllic summer sanctuary, and a hub for storm-watching and surfing in the winter. In addition to its endless list of hiking, camping, and paddling adventures, the Island offers ample opportunities to unwind on its scenic golf courses and lush vineyards.
How long does it take to drive all of Vancouver Island?
It takes about 6 hours to drive straight through from one end of the island to the other, and about 3 hours to drive across at the widest point. You need to allow for travel time on the island, which limits how many stops you can reasonably make.
Is there a way to drive to Vancouver Island?
How to get to Vancouver Island. Vancouver Island is not connected to the mainland by any bridges, so you can either take the seaplane or the ferry. Since you’ll be road tripping, taking the ferry allows you to bring your own car along. The other option is to rent a car from one of the cities on the island.