BC Ferries runs a passenger ship from Vancouver to Vancouver Island from the Tsawwassen Ferry Terminal. The ships run hourly starting from 7 AM. Please check the
schedule before planning your trip. I suggest you arrive at least 45 minutes before the sailing time to ensure that you don't miss the boat (literally).
View Larger Map
BC Ferry Fares
The fares vary depending on how you will be traveling on the boat. You can take your motorcycle, car, bus, or bike onto the ferry. Of course, you can also walk onto the ferry when you are dropped off by local transit. There are also discounts for groups of 16 or more people, and seniors. Please check the following page,
BC Ferry Tsawwassen schedule of fares (current from February 14, 2014). You can also visit the
BC Ferry website.
 |
| Outdoor top deck on a sunny day, BC Ferry |
Video of the ferry ride to Victoria
Onboard the BC Ferry
Once we park our car on board the ferry, we try not to dawdle and make our way directly upstairs to stake out a nice seating area for our large group. There is WIFI throughout the ship, but it is weak at best.
 |
| Computer work area, BC Ferries |
Shopping on Ferry
There is a small shop on board the ferry that sells locally inspired giftware, food, and personal items that you may have forgotten to bring on your trip.
 |
| Gift store, BC Ferries |
BC Ferries Serves Starbucks Coffee
I was relieved to learn that the ferry serves Starbucks coffee, lattes, and cappuccinos, especially since I was on the road since 6 AM.
 |
| Coffee Shop, BC Ferries |
Seawest Lounge, BC Ferries
Seawest Lounge is the VIP section on the Ferry. It costs an additional $12.00 per person and includes coffee, tea, fruit and other light snacks. It decor is more upscale and roomier than the rest of the ship and it's very quiet. The best part of the lounge is the strong WIFI signal.
 |
| Seawest VIP Loung, BC Ferries |
 |
| Fruit and light snacks at the Seawest Lounge, BC Ferries |
 |
| Coffee and Tea are free in the Seawest Lounge, BC Ferries |
Pacific Buffet, BC Ferries
Some of the ferries include an all-inclusive buffet restaurant called the
Pacific Buffet. It serves a variety of food, including seafood, salads, Chinese, and desserts. Price for the buffet is $17.40/adult and $9.50/child.
 |
| Seafood and pasta is served in the Pacific Buffet, BC Ferries |
 |
| Chicken fingers, veggies and rice, Pacific Buffet, BC Ferries |
 |
| Salad bar, Pacific Buffet, BC Ferries |
Cheapest Eats on BC Ferries
The self-serve restaurant on board the ferry is the
Coastal Cafe. It serves a variety of basic food, such as sandwiches, burgers, and salads, which will cost around $12-$15/person. My brother found the most economical meal onboard the Ferry: the Pirate Pak. It includes a small burger, drink, and a dessert for under $10.
 |
| Pirate Pak meal, BC Ferries |
Before You Disembark…
Double check to see if you have everything you brought on board the ship, such as phone chargers, cameras, extra bags, hats, and sunglasses. Also, make a visit to the washroom if your destination is Victoria, which is a 1/2-hour drive from the Swartz Bay Terminal.
Have a great ferry trip to Vancouver Island!
