Air Travel
- Companies: Air Canada, WestJet
- Duration: Approximately 4 hours (including layover)
- Distance: 450 km (280 miles)
- Costs: Around €120 - €250 depending on booking time and tier
- Roads/Routes: Not applicable
Pro Tip: Book your ticket at least 3 weeks in advance and consider flying during off-peak hours (midweek) for better rates.
This air travel option is the quickest, with a layover in Vancouver before reaching Victoria.
Bus and Ferry Travel
- Companies: Greyhound Canada (Bus), BC Ferries
- Duration: Approximately 8 hours (including ferry time)
- Distance: 350 km (219 miles)
- Costs: Approximately €70 - €100 (combined bus and ferry fares)
- Roads/Routes: Highway 1 (Trans-Canada Highway) to Swartz Bay
Pro Tip: Bring snacks and entertainment for the ferry ride, as it can be long. Also, book the ferry in advance online to secure your spot.
Traveling via bus and ferry offers beautiful scenic views, particularly on the ferry ride from Tsawwassen to Swartz Bay.
Driving
- Companies: Rental Car - Avis, Budget, Enterprise
- Duration: Approximately 6 hours
- Distance: 350 km (219 miles)
- Costs: Around €100 - €150 for car rental, plus fuel costs
- Roads/Routes: Highway 1 (Trans-Canada Highway), followed by BC Ferries from Tsawwassen to Swartz Bay
Pro Tip: Make sure to check ferry schedules, especially during holidays, to avoid long wait times.
Driving gives you the flexibility to explore different parts of the route at your own pace.
Recommendation
For travelers on a moderate budget who appreciate beautiful scenery and flexibility, the bus and ferry option is highly recommended. It combines comfort with cost-effectiveness while showcasing Vancouver Island's breathtaking landscapes. However, if time is a significant factor, flying is the best option despite the higher cost.