FerryConnect

Canada

Horseshoe Bay (West Vancouver) → Nanaimo (Departure Bay)

The ferry from West Vancouver to Nanaimo, the best route to central and northern Vancouver Island: Tofino, Ucluelet, Parksville and Campbell River. It is also the closest terminal to Whistler and the Sea-to-Sky Highway.

⏱ 1h 40m🚢 1 operator📅 Several sailings daily🚗 Vehicles accepted🐕 Pet friendly

Horseshoe Bay (West Vancouver) to Nanaimo (Departure Bay) ferry at a glance

The ferry from Horseshoe Bay (West Vancouver) to Nanaimo (Departure Bay) takes 1h 40m across the Strait of Georgia, operated by BC Ferries. Both vehicles and foot passengers are carried. Typical frequency: several sailings daily.

Crossing times and frequencies are typical figures and vary by season. Confirm the current timetable with the operator or booking partner before you travel.

Maritime Crossing Route Map

Interactive sea passage between Horseshoe Bay (West Vancouver) and Nanaimo (Departure Bay)

📐 30 Nautical Miles
Horseshoe Bay (West Vancouver)⇄Nanaimo (Departure Bay)
⏱ 1h 40m · 📐 30 nm
© OpenFreeMap / OSM
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Ready to cross from Horseshoe Bay (West Vancouver) to Nanaimo (Departure Bay)?

Check live availability, fares and sailing times with Direct Ferries.

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Operators on This Route

OperatorCrossing TimeVessels
BC Ferries1h 40mQueen of Oak Bay, Queen of Cowichan, Coastal Celebration

Route Features

🚗

Vehicles

Cars, campervans, and motorbikes accepted

🚶

Foot Passengers

Walk-on passengers welcome

🐕

Pets

Pets allowed with valid documents

📐

Distance

30 nautical miles

Getting There & Onward Transport

  • Horseshoe Bay is served by TransLink buses from downtown Vancouver and sits on Highway 99 (Sea-to-Sky)
  • Departure Bay connects to Highway 19 north to Parksville and west via Highway 4 to Tofino

Related Ferry Crossings

Nearby alternative crossingVancouver (Tsawwassen) → Victoria (Swartz Bay)1h 35m · BC FerriesNearby alternative crossingAnacortes → Friday Harbor (San Juan Island)1h – 2h (depending on island stops) · Washington State FerriesNearby alternative crossingSeattle → Bainbridge Island35m · Washington State FerriesMore ferries in CanadaNorth Sydney (Nova Scotia) → Port aux Basques (Newfoundland)6h – 7h · Marine AtlanticMore ferries in CanadaSaint John (New Brunswick) → Digby (Nova Scotia)About 2h 15m – 3h · Bay FerriesMore ferries in CanadaWood Islands (Prince Edward Island) → Caribou (Nova Scotia)About 1h 15m · Northumberland Ferries
🗺 All ferries in Canada🔎 Search all routes

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the ferry from Horseshoe Bay (West Vancouver) to Nanaimo (Departure Bay)?
The crossing typically takes 1h 40m. Actual times vary by vessel, season and sea conditions, so check the timetable for your sailing.
Which ferry companies sail from Horseshoe Bay (West Vancouver) to Nanaimo (Departure Bay)?
BC Ferries operates this route. Compare sailing times and ticket types before booking, as they often differ between operators.
Can I take my car on the Horseshoe Bay (West Vancouver) to Nanaimo (Departure Bay) ferry?
Yes. Vehicles are carried on this route. Book vehicle space in advance for peak dates, and check the operator’s height, length and trailer limits for campervans and larger vehicles.
Can I take the Horseshoe Bay (West Vancouver) to Nanaimo (Departure Bay) ferry as a foot passenger?
Yes. Foot passengers can travel on this route. Allow time to reach the passenger terminal and check the operator’s check-in closing time.
Are dogs and pets allowed on the Horseshoe Bay (West Vancouver) to Nanaimo (Departure Bay) ferry?
Pets are accepted on this route, subject to the operator’s rules (for example staying in the vehicle, kennels or pet-friendly cabins). International crossings also require the correct pet travel documents.
How far is Horseshoe Bay (West Vancouver) from Nanaimo (Departure Bay) by ferry?
The sea crossing is about 30 nautical miles (roughly 56 km).