Getting *into* Victoria is the exciting part. Getting *out* usually means a suitcase, a deadline and a slight panic about bus numbers. When I first moved here, I dragged an overstuffed bag onto a bus at rush hour and learned a few things the hard way. So here's everything I wish someone had told me, for the three big exits: the airport, the BC Ferries terminal at Swartz Bay, and the Coho to Port Angeles.
One thing up front: route numbers and schedules change, especially between seasons. Always double-check on BC Transit's Victoria page before you head out.
The Quick Overview
- Coho ferry to Port Angeles: the easy one. It leaves right from the Inner Harbour, so you can walk there from Ocean Island.
- BC Ferries at Swartz Bay: about 30 km north. Direct buses run from downtown, or you can bike it.
- Victoria International Airport (YYJ): out near Sidney. You can get there by bus with a transfer, by taxi or rideshare, or by a scheduled airport shuttle.
Getting to the Coho Ferry (Port Angeles, WA)
This is the one guests always overthink. The Coho terminal sits right on the Inner Harbour, near the BC Parliament Buildings. It's a pleasant walk from Ocean Island through downtown and along the waterfront, roughly 15 to 20 minutes depending on how heavy your bag is and how often you stop to look at the harbour (it's very pretty, you'll stop).
Things to know
- You're crossing a border. Bring your passport or other valid travel documents. You go through US customs in Victoria before you board, so build in extra time. Check the Coho's website for current check-in recommendations.
- Schedules are seasonal. There are more sailings in summer and fewer in the off-season. The ship also takes a break each year for maintenance, usually in winter. Always confirm before you plan around it.
- Walking on is simple. If you're on foot, you skip all the car-lineup drama.
- Raining? We get a lot of rain, won't lie. A short taxi ride is an option if you'd rather not arrive damp.
Getting to BC Ferries at Swartz Bay
Swartz Bay is where you catch the big ferries to Tsawwassen (for Vancouver) and to the Southern Gulf Islands. It's at the very top of the Saanich Peninsula, but it's surprisingly easy to reach without a car.
By bus
- Swartz Bay buses run from downtown. At the time of writing, these are routes 70 and 72. They stop along Douglas Street downtown, a short walk from Ocean Island.
- Allow about an hour for the ride, and more at peak times.
- Pad your schedule. Buses and ferries don't wait for each other. Aim for a bus that gets you there with a comfortable buffer before your sailing.
- Get off at the end of the line. The bus drops you right at the terminal, and from there you follow the signs for foot passengers.
- Check the ferry side too. Look up sailing times and reservation options at bcferries.com. Summer weekends and long weekends get busy.
By bike (my favourite way, honestly)
If you're travelling light and the weather's kind, you can ride to Swartz Bay on the Lochside Regional Trail. It runs from the edge of downtown, where it connects with the Galloping Goose, all the way up the peninsula to the ferry terminal.
- It's mostly flat and mostly car-free, passing farmland, wetlands and ocean views.
- Plan for a few hours at a relaxed pace, plus snack stops.
- You can walk your bike onto BC Ferries as a foot passenger.
- Tired legs? Victoria buses have front bike racks, so you can ride part of the way and bus the rest. Racks fit only a couple of bikes, so have a backup plan.
Getting to the Airport (YYJ)
Victoria International Airport is in North Saanich, near Sidney, about a 25 to 30 minute drive from downtown. You have a few options.
By bus (cheapest, slowest)
- There's no single direct bus from downtown right now. Take a Swartz Bay–bound bus (routes 70 or 72) north. Then transfer to route 88, which serves the airport. Ask the driver or check the trip planner for the best transfer point.
- Budget well over an hour, and longer in the evenings or on weekends, when buses run less often.
- Watch out for early flights. The first buses of the day may not get you there in time for a dawn departure. Check before you count on it.
Airport shuttle
A scheduled airport shuttle runs between downtown and YYJ. It's a nice middle ground if you have lots of luggage or don't want to juggle a transfer. Ask at the Ocean Island front desk for current pickup times and rates.
Taxi or rideshare
- Taxis are the fastest and simplest option, especially for early flights or if you're splitting with travel buddies.
- Rideshare apps also operate in Victoria, so check what's available on your phone.
- Our front desk can help you call a cab.
Bus Tips for Travellers with Luggage
- How to pay: cash on board needs exact change, since drivers can't break bills. Day passes and BC Transit's mobile and tap payment options are also available. For current fares, check bctransit.com or ask the front desk. I'm not printing numbers here because they change.
- Luggage is fine as long as you can manage it yourself and keep the aisle clear. Rush hour on Douglas Street with a giant suitcase is a character-building experience. Avoid it if you can.
- Use the trip planner. Google Maps and the BC Transit site both show real-time-ish bus info, which helps on tight connections.
- Ask for your stop. Drivers here are generally friendly. If you're unsure where to get off for the airport transfer, just ask.
A Little Local Wisdom
Whatever way you're leaving, give yourself more time than you think you need. Victoria runs at a gentle pace, and that's half its charm. The other half is the views, and you'll want a minute to enjoy the harbour or the peninsula on your way out instead of sprinting for a ferry ramp. For more ideas on getting around the region, Tourism Victoria has handy planning pages too.
Not sure which bus to catch, or want help timing your trip to the airport or ferry? Stop by the Ocean Island front desk. We're always happy to help you plan your getaway (and we'll be sad to see you go).