Whether you're catching a flight home, hopping a ferry to the mainland, or crossing to Washington State, getting out of downtown Victoria without a car is totally doable — and honestly not that stressful once you know the moves. Here's how it works.
Victoria International Airport (YYJ)
YYJ sits about 26 km north of the Inner Harbour, near Sidney. Not a quick walk, but very manageable on transit.
By BC Transit
BC Transit runs service toward the airport corridor. The most practical route involves heading up to the BC Transit exchange near the airport — check the BC Transit trip planner for the current best combination from your stop downtown. Allow yourself plenty of buffer time, especially with luggage.
- Pay cash on board with exact change, or grab a day pass if you're making multiple trips
- Check bctransit.com or ask at the front desk for current fares and schedules
- Honest take: Transit to YYJ works fine for light travellers who aren't rushing. If you've got big bags and an early morning flight, factor that in.
BC Ferries at Swartz Bay
Swartz Bay is the departure point for BC Ferries sailings to Tsawwassen (serving Metro Vancouver) — and it's also doable by transit.
By BC Transit — Express Route 70
Route 70 runs directly from downtown Victoria to Swartz Bay Ferry Terminal. It's the go-to option and pretty straightforward.
- Buses depart from downtown and connect timed to ferry sailings — check the Route 70 schedule ahead of time
- The ride takes roughly 50–60 minutes depending on traffic
- Pay with exact change on board, or use a day pass
- Tip: BC Ferries sailings fill up, especially on summer weekends. Check bcferries.com for sailings and reservation options before you head out
The Coho Ferry to Port Angeles (Black Ball Ferry Line)
If you're crossing to Washington State, the Coho ferry operated by Black Ball Transport is your ride — and this one's the most central of the three.
Getting There from Downtown
The Coho departs right from the Inner Harbour, which means it's an easy walk or short bus ride from Ocean Island. Seriously, we're talking one of the most convenient departures you'll ever make.
- Walk it: The Inner Harbour terminal is about a 10-minute walk from Ocean Island — very manageable even with a bag
- By transit: Multiple downtown bus routes pass through the harbour area; check bctransit.com for the closest stop to the terminal
- Check in at the Coho terminal with time to spare — they load vehicles and walk-on passengers before departure
- Visit cohoferry.com for current sailing times and booking
Quick note for US-bound travellers: You'll clear Canadian customs before boarding and US customs on arrival in Port Angeles. Have your passport ready.
A Few General Tips Before You Go
- Build in buffer time. Buses run on schedules, not on yours — especially with luggage.
- Check schedules the day before. BC Transit occasionally adjusts routes, and BC Ferries sailing times vary by season.
- Travelling light is your friend on public transit. One manageable bag beats wrestling a 30 kg suitcase onto a city bus.
- Heading somewhere the morning after arrival? A quick stop at the front desk when you check in is worth it — we can help you figure out timing on the spot.
Not sure which route works best for your schedule or luggage situation? Pop by the Ocean Island front desk — we know this stuff cold and are happy to help you map out the easiest exit from our beautiful city. Safe travels! 🚢✈️
