If life’s a journey, sometimes it’s best to take the scenic route – which is pretty much the selling point of the Seattle to Victoria ferry.
The Clipper is far and away the easiest and most efficient way to reach Victoria from Seattle.
So, if you’re craving a relaxing and fun-filled weekend escape from the hustle and bustle of Seattle, here’s the first step in doing it!
Let’s check out the Victoria ferry from Seattle.
The Victoria Clipper
Operated by Clipper Vacations, the Victoria Clipper provides the only direct fast ferry service between Seattle and Victoria.
This high-speed catamaran operates between Pier 69 in downtown Seattle and Victoria’s Belleville Terminal in the city’s quaint Inner Harbor.
This Seattle to Victoria ferry gets you there in 2 hours and 45 minutes.
Related: How to Get from Vancouver to Victoria
How to Get the Ferry from Seattle to Victoria BC
The Victoria Clipper is so much more than a way to get from A to B.
It’s a gateway to a relaxing weekend in a city Conde Nast has dubbed “the 2nd-best small city in the world” – and as a Pacific Northwest resident, it’s located right on your doorstep from Seattle.
Let’s see what you can expect on your journey:
Smooth Sailing and Scenic Views
- The Victoria Clipper is renowned for its smooth, comfortable rides, perfect for a stress-free weekend away. Gaze out the windows at the stunning panoramic views of Puget Sound, the Olympic Peninsula, and the Strait of Juan de Fuca as you make your way to Victoria.
- The ferry allows you to bypass the dreadful I-5 traffic coming out of Seattle. What’s more, you won’t waste any valuable time at the Peace Arch Crossing or Tsawwassen Ferry Terminal to get over to the Island via BC Ferries.
- It’s the best way to maximize a weekend Victoria itinerary
Luxurious Comfort and Amenities
- On board the Victoria Clipper, you’ll find plush seating and ample legroom to stretch out and unwind. Plus, the large windows and observation deck allow for stunning panoramic views of Puget Sound, the Gulf Islands and the Salish Sea.
- There are three classes on the ship – Economy on the lower deck and Vista and Comfort Class on the upper deck. But wait, there’s more! There are upgrades available for each class to take your experience to the next level.
- Snacks and beverages, including local craft beers and wines, are available for purchase. This ain’t your typical ferry food; all your local favourites are on hand!
- If you need any assistance during the journey, the attentive staff are more than happy to help. And don’t be afraid for tips on what to do in Victoria upon arrival.
It’s the Best Way to Ease into a Victoria Weekend
- The ferry departs from the heart of downtown Seattle, making it incredibly accessible.
- The journey to Victoria takes around 2 hours and 45 minutes, giving you plenty of time to sit back, relax and enjoy the scenery.
- You’ll arrive at Victoria’s Inner Harbour, which is within walking distance of all the best things to see in Victoria and most Victoria hotels.
Going Through Customs is a Breeze
- Relative to the painful experience at the Peace Arch or endless lines at the airport, the customs process is easy as pie. Due to the ferry’s relatively small size, you’ll avoid the hordes of tourists typically encountered on cross-border weekend getaways.
- As of October 1, 2022, travellers entering Canada no longer have to adhere to COVID-related health restrictions. So, fingers crossed, international travel is back with a bang!
How to Buy Tickets for the Seattle to Victoria Ferry
Booking your weekend getaway to Victoria doesn’t have to be difficult. But in case you have any issues, we’ll take you through the process on a step-by-step basis:
- Visit the Victoria Clipper section of the website of our partners at Viator.
- Select your date of travel and the number of tickets for your party.
- Choose between Vista and Economy Class and the time of departure.
- Click the orange button below and opt into the new reserve now and pay later option – or complete your payment using your method of choice.
It’s that simple: you now have tickets with the option to cancel up to 24 hours before departure.
Why book the Victoria Clipper with Viator?
Our recommendation is to purchase your Victoria Clipper tickets via our partners at Viator.
We’ve elected to partner with this provider because they offer;
- Quantity: They are part of the Trip Advisor family, delivering customers with a choice of a staggering 300,000+ attractions across the globe.
- Quality: You’ll find millions of reviews for their products, so you know they are a reputable and trusted provider.
- Flexibility: You’ll find free cancellation and flexible buy now, pay later payment options to satisfy any plan or budget.
- Security: They use SSL encryption to keep your data safe & secure. Got an issue? They provide a 24/7 award-winning support platform to sort you out.
- Affordability: They offer a price-match guarantee, meaning if you find the same product cheaper, they’ll refund the difference!
Seattle to Victoria Ferry Boarding Procedures
Now you’ve got your tickets. But before you can embark on this voyage, you’ve gotta get through the boarding procedure.
But don’t fret; it’s a piece of cake! Just arrive about an hour before departure to give yourself enough time to grab your boarding passes and go through security – it’s smooth sailing from there on out!
Where Does the Seattle to Victoria Ferry Depart From?
Pier 69 | 2701 Alaskan Way
The Seattle to Victoria ferry terminal is located in the heart of downtown, near the district of Belltown. As such, the terminal is a short walk from many downtown hotels and residences, so getting there is a breeze.
- It is recommended to arrive an hour before departure time to allow for check-in and boarding procedures. Final boarding takes place 15 minutes prior to departure. If you’re not there by then, you will forfeit your seat on board.
- Parking is available at the nearby Bell Street Pier garage located at 9 Wall Street. Clipper customers receive a discounted rate of just $10 per day.
- You can check up to two pieces of luggage with you at a cost of $20.00 USD / $25.00 CAD per checked bag per leg of travel. Unfortunately, payment is by credit card only.
Victoria Clipper Customs Procedures
Unfortunately, since this is an international sailing, you’ll be required to pass through customs and immigration on both sides of the border. But don’t worry; the process is significantly easier than most airport and land crossings.
But remember, there is one important difference between the procedures on the outbound and inbound journeys.
- When leaving Seattle, you won’t have to go through customs until you reach Belleville Terminal in Victoria.
- However, when returning home, you will be required to go through U.S. Immigration/Passport Control before boarding your departure from Victoria. So it is imperative that you arrive with plenty of time to spare before your sailing home.
ID Requirements
Before you embark, you’ll have to have your document game on point. Otherwise, your trip will be over before it even begins!
The following documents are accepted for entry into Canada:
- American or International passport
- Passport Card
- Enhanced Driver’s License or an Enhanced ID Card (EDL/ID)
- NEXUS Card
Where Does the Seattle to Victoria Ferry Arrive?
Belleville Terminal | 254 Belleville Street
The terminal in Victoria is perfectly situated in the Inner Harbour, within a 5-10 minute walk of most downtown Victoria hotels.
Furthermore, most of Victoria’s top things to do are just a short stroll from Belleville Terminal as well.
- Upon arrival, you’ll have to proceed through Canadian Immigration and Customs. Provided your documents are in order, the process should be quick and painless.
- Again, hit up Google Maps for directions to your place of lodging. Amazingly enough, Victoria still does not have Uber or Lyft. But there is typically no shortage of cabs in the area.
- Don’t be afraid to ask Clipper staff for directions or advice.
Once you’re on the Clipper, get ready for a boatload of fun! Seriously, you’ll be feeling like a VIP with all the fantastic amenities they offer. You can kick back and relax in the comfy seats while you take in the jaw-dropping views – the Pacific Northwest scenery is a sight for sore eyes! And if you’re feeling peckish, no worries – the ferry’s got a delightful little cafe that’ll satisfy your hunger in a jiffy.
But wait, there’s more! This nifty little ferry offers something for everyone. If you’re a workaholic who can’t leave your emails behind, there is plenty of space to get some work done. And for those of you who love a little R&R (who doesn’t, am I right?), the on-board duty-free shop has got you covered – shop ’til you drop or just browse around; the choice is yours!
Oh, and let’s not forget about the friendly and helpful crew! If you’re ever in a pickle, just give ’em a holler – they’ll be there in a heartbeat to lend you a helping hand.
So, you’ve reached the lovely city of Victoria, and you might be thinking, “Now what?” Well, fear not!
This charming little gem is chock-full of amazing sights and activities to fill up your weekend. From wandering around the picturesque Butchart Gardens to getting up close and personal with marine life at the Shaw Centre for the Salish Sea, there’s never a dull moment in this enchanting city.
Alright, I’ve spilled the beans on this one-of-a-kind journey. So, the next time you’re itching for a quick weekend escape, you know where to go – just hop on the Victoria Clipper ferry and let the good times roll! After all, as they say, the world’s your oyster, so why not explore it in style? Bon voyage, and happy travels!
Seattle to Victoria Ferry FAQs
Can I take a ferry from Seattle to Victoria?
Yes, the Victoria Clipper passenger ferry offers high-speed service between downtown Seattle and Victoria’s Inner Harbour. The ferry’s convenience and speed make it the most popular option.
You can also opt for the Black Ball Ferry from Port Angeles or the Washington State Ferry from Anacortes to Sidney if you’d prefer to take your vehicle. But both options involve lengthy drives from downtown Seattle, reducing the convenience factor.
Where does the Victoria Clipper depart from?
The Victoria Clipper departs from Pier 69, in the heart of downtown Seattle. This makes accessing the terminal a breeze via transit, Uber or even on foot. Parking is also available in the nearby Bell Street Pier garage at 9 Wall Street.
Where does the Victoria Clipper dock in Victoria?
Upon arrival in Victoria, the ferry docks at Belleville Terminal in the city’s Inner Harbour. After walking up the ramp, you’ll immediately be provided with stunning views of the Empress Hotel and BC Parliament Buildings. Furthermore, the terminal is a short walk from most Victoria hotels.
How long is the ferry ride between Seattle and Victoria?
The Victoria Clipper takes approximately 2 hours and 45 minutes to travel between Pier 69 and Belleville Terminal. The trip takes you up Puget Sound through the Gulf Islands and across the Salish Sea into Victoria Harbour.
Do I need a passport to travel aboard the Victoria Clipper?
Yes, since the ferry crosses an international border, a passport or enhanced driver’s license will be required upon disembarking from the vessel. You’ll pass through Canadian customs upon arrival in Victoria, while US passport control before boarding the ferry on the return trip.
Still Need Info on the Seattle Ferry to Victoria BC?
I hope I’ve prepared you for the Victoria Clipper, and you’re all set to go.
That said, if you’ve got any more questions on how to book a ferry from Seattle to Victoria BC, please don’t hesitate to write me below.
With comfortable seats, breathtaking views, and an unbeatable experience, it’s the perfect way to travel. Don’t miss out on this unforgettable adventure – book your trip now!
Enjoy the ferry trip from Seattle to Victoria ⚓️
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