Are you wondering how to get from Victoria to Seattle but feeling overwhelmed by the transportation options?
Look no further. In this article, we will discuss the best ways for you to get to the Emerald City, alleviating any worries you may have and making your journey smoother.
Let’s delve into the perplexing world of transportation and find the perfect solution to transport you from Victoria to Seattle.
- Overview
- The Victoria to Seattle Ferry
- Victoria to Seattle by Bus
- Kenmore Air Seaplane
- Victoria to Seattle by Car
- Tips
- Seattle CityPASS
- FAQs
How to Travel from Victoria to Seattle?
Hey there! Looking to switch up your scenery from Victoria’s charming vistas to Seattle’s buzzing cityscape? Before you pack your bags, let’s talk about the journey. Seattle is located just 120 kilometres (or 75 miles) from Victoria, meaning the charms of Emerald City are only marginally further than Vancouver.
So the journey should be a breeze, right? Well, not quite.
Unfortunately, covering the distance between these two gems isn’t just about measuring miles—it’s about navigating the Salish Sea and crossing the US/Canada border.
Luckily, we’ve got four options to make your Victoria to Seattle journey go as smoothly as possible.
⛴️ Heading to Vancouver? Check out our guide on how to get from Vancover to Victoria before you leave.
What Are the Transportation Options?
For those wondering how to get from Victoria to Seattle, there are several transportation options to choose from. Whether you prefer a scenic ferry ride or a quick flight, you’ll find a mode of transportation that suits your needs.
- The Victoria to Seattle Ferry: The Victoria Clipper passenger ferry travels between the Inner Harbour and Downtown Seattle. The Black Ball Ferry to Port Angeles is also available, though it requires an extra 226 km drive through the Olympic Peninsula or an additional Kingston to Edmonds ferry.
- The Bus: A lengthy journey that includes the Victoria to Vancouver Bus and a transfer to the Flixbus from Downtown Vancouver to Seattle.
- Kenmore Air: A Victoria to Seattle Seaplane that takes you from Downtown Victoria to Lake Union.
- Drive: Requires taking the Victoria to Vancouver ferry to Tsawwassen Terminal. From Tsawwassen, you’ll have to drive across the Peace Arch Border Crossing and follow the I-5 to Seattle.
Pro-tip: It is recommended to book tickets in advance to secure the best fares and ensure a smooth travel experience.
In this section, we’ll take a detailed look at the different ways to travel between these two cities.
The Victoria to Seattle Ferry
Time: 2 hr 45 min | Departure Point: Inner Harbour | Cost: From CA$171.63 | ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ | Read 35+ reviews
Jump aboard the Victoria Clipper and glide from the heart of Victoria right into the bustling downtown of Seattle! This isn’t just any trip; it’s our top pick for ease, comfort, and unbeatable views.
Picture this: you’re zipping through the Salish Sea, cozied up in your seat, with panoramic views of the Pacific Northwest’s stunning landscape unfolding around you. When the trip is over, you’ll find yourself just steps from your Seattle hotel in the Belltown District.
Forget the hassle of long drives or the stress of the Peace Arch Border Crossing—this downtown-to-downtown service is all about kicking back and enjoying the ride. Simply follow the steps below for convenient smartphone tickets:
- Visit the Viator Victoria to Seattle Ferry portal to check ferry schedules and book tickets in advance.
- Book here to secure buy now, pay later tickets, a low price guarantee, and free cancellation.
- Arrive at the ferry terminal at least one hour before departure.
- Bring your required identification and travel documents. You’ll need to pass through U.S. Customs & Border Protection before departing Victoria.
- Be mindful of any luggage restrictions and pack accordingly. You are allowed one piece of luggage (24” x 16” x 10”) and one personal item free of charge. You may check up to two additional items for $25.00 per bag.
Did you know? The Victoria Clipper V is powered by a Waterjet propulsion system, reaching speeds up to 36 knots. This makes it one of the fastest passenger ferries in North America.
⛴️ Visit our complete Victoria to Seattle Ferry guide for more information.
How to Get from Victoria to Seattle by Bus
Time: 9 hours | Departure Point: Capital City Station | Cost: From CA$139.07 | ⭐️
Thinking about bus-hopping from Victoria to Seattle? It’s an option, sure, but brace yourself for a bit of a journey. The entire process is a bit of a marathon, weaving through ferry schedules, bus timetables, and, oh, the joys of border crossing procedures.
Cost-wise, you might expect this route to be a clear winner, but the truth is, the savings are pretty slim when stacked against other travel methods.
Considering the time investment and the minimal cost difference, this option is best suited for those who are travelling on a strict budget and don’t mind the longer journey time. Or, those looking to pair their Seattle trip with a visit to Vancouver.
Here are the steps involved:
- Visit Flixbus to book your Victoria to Seattle bus tickets.
- Arrive at Capital City Station 20 minutes before departure and board the BC Ferries Connector to Vancouver.
- You’ll cross the Salish Sea on the Tsawwassen Ferry (ticket included) and head into Vancouver’s Pacific Central Station. Here, you’ll transfer to Flixbus for your journey to Seattle. Your transfer time depends on the chosen departure.
- Upon arrival at the Pacific Border Crossing, you’ll be required to get off the bus and pass through border control. Don’t forget your passport or travel documents!
- After clearing the border, you’ll proceed to the King Street Station in Downtown Seattle. The entire journey should take around 9 hours, though transfer times in Vancouver vary.
I told you it’s a bit cumbersome! Nevertheless, if you’re up for an adventure or you’d like to spend some time in Vancouver, the bus route can still be a viable option.
Just remember to pack your patience along with your passport!
Related: The Best Day Trips from Victoria: A Gateway to an Eco-tourism Paradise
The Victoria to Seattle Seaplane
Time: 45 min | Departure Point: Inner Harbour | Cost: From CA$418.00 | ⭐️⭐️⭐️
Wondering how to get from Victoria to Seattle in a hurry? Soar high with Kenmore Air’s seaplane for a swift and scenic dash from Victoria’s downtown directly to Seattle’s Lake Union in just 45 minutes! Imagine swapping the cityscape of Victoria for Seattle’s skyline quicker than it takes to watch an episode of your favourite show on Netflix.
This ride isn’t just about getting from A to B; it’s a deluxe experience, offering comfort, convenience, and jaw-dropping views of the coastal scenery below. However, all this exclusivity comes with a price tag—starting at $420+ (one-way), it’s a splurge that might not fit everyone’s travel budget, especially when compared to the more economical Victoria Clipper ferry.
Nevertheless, if you’re looking for a once-in-a-lifetime experience, follow the steps below:
- Visit Kenmore Air to view the Victoria to Seattle schedule to find a suitable departure time.
- Purchase your tickets in advance to secure seats, especially during peak travel times.
- Arrive at the terminal at least 60 minutes before departure for check-in and boarding.
- Have necessary identification and travel documents ready for border crossings. Each traveller will require either a passport book or a Travel visa/eTA (foreign passports).
Important note: Passport cards, NEXUS cards, and enhanced driver’s licenses cannot be accepted by Kenmore Air even though they are acceptable at most border crossings.
Related: The Vancouver to Victoria Seaplane: A Scenic Island Gateway
How to Get from Victoria to Seattle by Car
Time: 4.5 – 6 hours | Departure Point: Custom| Cost: From CA$418.00 | ⭐️⭐️
Asking yourself how to get from Victoria to Seattle while taking your trusty vehicle along for the ride? Well, gear up because while it’s totally doable, it’s just a bit of an adventure that requires some patience and planning.
In fact, the difficulty of this multi-step journey is such that I’d recommend it only for travellers who require their own vehicle for work or family reasons. After all, Downtown Seattle and Victoria are reasonably accessible on foot, or via Uber. And you’re free to rent a vehicle once you arrive.
You’ve got two main routes to pick from:
- The BC Ferry Ride to Tsawwassen followed by a cruise down I-5 (5-6 hours): This option has you hopping on the Victoria to Vancouver ferry, crossing the Peace Arch Border Crossing, and then taking the I-5 freeway straight into Seattle’s heart. It’s relatively straightforward but be prepared for the ferry wait times, border delays, and an additional 2.5-hour drive down the I-5.
- The Black Ball Ferry to Port Angeles with a scenic drive to Seattle (4.5-5 hours): A bit more scenic, this route takes you across to the Olympic Peninsula before you embark on a picturesque drive towards Seattle. Once in Washington, you can opt to pair the US-101 E with the Port Orchard-Edmonds Ferry, or drive SE towards the I-5 and follow it north into Seattle. Each route takes around the same time.
Both options have their charm, but don’t underestimate the journey; it’s time-consuming and can test your patience, especially during peak travel times or when ferry waits are long.
These paths are best suited for those who really need their vehicle while in Seattle, as navigating the ferry schedules and the drive can be a bit of a logistical juggle.
What Are the Costs of Each Transportation Option?
When planning a trip from Victoria to Seattle, it’s important to consider your transportation options and the associated costs. In this section, we will break down the costs of each transportation option available: ferry, bus, seaplane, and car.
By considering the costs, travel time, and logistics of each option, you can make an informed decision on which method best fits your budget and travel preferences.
| Duration | One Way Cost (p/p) | Recommended For | |
| Victoria to Seattle Ferry | 2 hr 45 min | $171.64 CAD | Couples, Families, Youth |
| Bus | 9.5 hours | $139.07 CAD | Pairing Van. w/ Seattle |
| Seaplane | 45 min | $418.00 CAD | Premium Travellers |
| Drive/ferry combo | 4.5 – 6 hours | $130 CAD | Those who require a car |
To book our #1 recommended method on how to get from Victoria to Seattle, click on the banner below:
Related: The Top Free Things to Do in Victoria: A Budget-Friendly Guide
What Are Some Tips for Travelling from Victoria to Seattle?
Travelling from Victoria to Seattle can be an exciting and convenient journey, with plenty of options for transportation. However, there are some important factors to consider before embarking on this trip.
- Bring Appropriate Identification: Make sure to bring a valid passport, other accepted travel documents, visa, or ESTA. Always check the current identification requirements for your nationality before travelling to the United States.
- Plan Ahead for Customs and Border Crossing: Plan ahead for customs and border crossing to ensure a smooth and hassle-free journey. Be aware of the border process for your chosen mode of transportation, as they differ slightly by air, land, and sea. Always show up early for your departure in case of delays.
- Pack Light for Easy Transportation: Calculate baggage weight and size limits for choice of transport. Opt for a lightweight, easy-to-carry luggage option for a smooth trip.
Don’t Forget Your Seattle CityPASS
Lastly, once you’ve made the leap from Victoria to Seattle, don’t miss out on snagging a Seattle CityPASS to turbocharge your sightseeing experience. Think of this pass as your golden ticket to exploring the best of Seattle without thinning out your wallet.
With the CityPASS, you’ll get discounted entry to up to five of the city’s top attractions. These iconic spots—the Space Needle, the Seattle Aquarium, and more—are all wrapped up in a neat, budget-friendly package. The CityPASS can save you up to 48%, or $155.18 CAD, on entry, so you best act now!
To learn more, click on the banner below:
Victoria to Seattle FAQs
How far is it from Victoria to Seattle?
The distance between Victoria and Seattle is about 100 miles (161 kilometres) as the crow flies. This number is accurate should you opt to take the Seaplane or Victoria Clipper.
However, if you choose to drive, you’ll be looking at a longer journey due to the various ferries and highways involved.
How long is the drive from Victoria to Seattle?
When combined with the Blackball Ferry, US 101-E, and the Kingston to Edmonds Ferry, the driving distance from Victoria to Seattle is approximately 110 miles (175 kilometres). Due to the steps involved, the journey will take just under 5 hours.
You can also opt to take the BC Ferry to Tsawwassen and proceed across the Peace Arch Crossing to the I-5, which will take you straight into Seattle. At 296 kilometres, this route is longer but will take around the same time due to the route’s relative simplicity.
What is the best way to get from Victoria to Seattle?
The best transport method depends on what you’re after! If you’re all about speed and don’t mind spending a bit more, the Kenmore Air seaplane is unbeatable for getting you there in about 45 minutes, with some killer views to boot. Prefer to have your car in Seattle? Then driving, despite being the most time-consuming, gives you flexibility once you’re there.
However, for a mix of comfort, scenic beauty, and a reasonable price, the Victoria Clipper ferry is hard to beat, offering a smooth sail right from downtown to downtown. This makes it our preferred option for most travellers.
What’s the Victoria Clipper, and how long does the journey take?
The Victoria Clipper is a passenger-only ferry that zips you directly from downtown Victoria to downtown Seattle across the Salish Sea. The journey takes around 2.5 to 3 hours. It’s our top pick for ease, comfort, and enjoying the spectacular coastal views.
Is there a bus from Victoria to Seattle?
Yes, you can take the bus, but it’s a lengthy journey with several steps. You’ll start with the BC Ferries Connector to get to Vancouver, then switch to a Flix Bus to Seattle. It’s the most budget-friendly option but also the most time-consuming, particularly with border crossings in the mix. For this reason, the minimal savings are rarely worth it.
What are the top things to do in Seattle?
Seattle is brimming with activities and sights! Don’t miss the Space Needle for iconic city views, Pike Place Market for fresh eats and vibrant culture, the Seattle Aquarium for a dive under the sea, and the Museum of Pop Culture for a blast of music and sci-fi. For a budget-friendly way to see it all, consider grabbing a Seattle CityPASS for discounted access to these top attractions.
Figured out how to get from Victoria to Seattle?
That’s all you need to know about how to visit the Emerald City from Victoria!
Sure, the Salish Sea and border formalities add an extra layer to the adventure, setting it apart from a simple trip to Vancouver, but these are some of the elements that make the journey so memorable.
Seattle’s vibrant energy is calling your name, so grab that passport, sort out how to get from Victoria to Seattle, and get going. Your American adventure awaits!
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