During my stay in Canada, I was based in Abbotsford with family. But since I had a few days to spare, I decided to visit Victoria, the capital of British Columbia. The most common way to get there from Vancouver, Abbotsford, and nearby cities on the mainland is by ferry from Tsawwassen. It’s a scenic and relaxing way to travel, and since I love boats, I was excited for the ride.
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| Tsawwassen Ferry Terminal |
Where to Buy Ferry Tickets
We traveled as walk-on passengers (no car), so we only needed individual foot-passenger tickets. You can buy tickets at the terminal, but the easiest and most convenient way is to book online through BC Ferries. If you book early, you might even get Saver fares (cheaper rates for specific times).
For reference, an adult walk-on ticket costs around $19.10, and youth tickets are about $9.55. If you do have a car, fares can range from $49 to $79 for a standard vehicle and driver, which includes a complimentary reservation. Prices can change, so it’s always best to check the BC Ferries website for the latest rates.
Getting to Tsawwassen Ferry Terminal
If you’re coming from Vancouver, you can take public transit by combining SkyTrain and bus. Just take the Canada Line SkyTrain to Bridgeport Station, and then transfer to Bus 620, which heads to Tsawwassen Ferry Terminal. But honestly, if you have luggage and you're not used to long bus rides, or if you're traveling as a group, getting a car ride or Uber might be more convenient.
Since I was traveling with family, getting to the Tsawwassen Ferry Terminal was easy - we just took an Uber.
The Ferry Ride Experience
The ferry ride from Tsawwassen to Swartz Bay takes about 1 hour and 35 minutes, and it was such a good experience. First off, the ferry is huge—way bigger than I expected. There were so many seats that everyone could sit comfortably, with plenty of space to move around.
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| comfy seats on the first floor |
I really liked how there were different seating options. You could sit inside in cozy lounge-style areas or go out to the viewing decks to enjoy the sea breeze.
The views were amazing—blue waters, small forested islands, and if you're lucky, you might even spot seals or whales. The ferry also had a restaurant serving full meals, a café for coffee and snacks, and a souvenir shop with BC-themed gifts
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| scenic view during the ferry ride |
Since I love boats, just being on the water made me happy, but even if you’re not a fan of sea travel, the ferry is a smooth and relaxing ride.
Once we arrived at Swartz Bay Terminal, we took the bus to downtown Victoria, which takes a little over an hour - it’s a straightforward, easy trip. Alternatively, you can also book an Uber.
Taking the ferry to Victoria was such a fun and chill experience. If you love scenic routes, boats, and a relaxed way of traveling, this is definitely the way to go. It was also super convenient, even for someone like me who usually depends on public transport. If you’re ever in Vancouver or Abbotsford and planning a Victoria trip, the ferry is absolutely worth taking.
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