If you’re looking to get across to the Garden City with ease, look no further than the Vancouver to Victoria bus.
This comfortable bus journey offers a unique opportunity to explore the natural beauty and cultural attractions of BC’s coast.
The Victoria bus from Vancouver goes downtown to downtown – no car rental, no multitude of tickets – just you leaning back on the tablet and letting them do the rest.
Let’s take a look at how to get a bus from Vancouver to Victoria.
How to Book a Vancouver to Victoria Bus
There are two ways you can get to Victoria from Vancouver by bus.
The first option involves four separate tickets and the use of the Vancouver and Victoria public transit systems – plus the Vancouver to Victoria ferry.
Here are the steps in more detail:
- Board the Skytrain’s Canada Line in Downtown Vancouver (from Waterfront, City Centre, or Yaletown Stations).
- Get off the train once you reach Bridgeport Station in Richmond.
- Walk downstairs and board the #620 bus to Tsawwassen Ferry Terminal at the bus loop.
- Purchase a foot passenger ticket aboard the Victoria Ferry at Tsawwassen Terminal (the #620 bus’s terminus stop).
- Grab a ticket on the #70 bus for downtown Victoria once you reach Swartz Bay Terminal.
As you can see, it is a rather lengthy and convoluted process.
All in all, you’ll be looking at roughly a 6-hour journey with multiple connections, which can pile on stress.
For this reason, I’d only recommend this option for locals familiar with Vancouver’s transportation system – or those on a very strict budget.
Luckily, we have a much more comfortable and convenient option available for everyone else.
Related: The Best Ways to Get to Victoria From Vancouver
The BC Ferries Connector Bus from Vancouver to Victoria
The BC Ferries Connector provides direct transport from downtown Vancouver to the heart of Victoria’s scenic Inner Harbour.
No navigating the public transportation system, no stressing over numerous connections, and no lengthy waits at the ferry terminal.
The journey is quick, convenient, and efficient – essentially, everything that option #1 is not.
You’ll depart from Pacific Central Station just outside downtown Vancouver. The station is a quick Uber ride away from most downtown hotels and is right outside the Skytrain’s Main Street-Science World Station.
From there, you’ll be transported to Tsawwassen Ferry Terminal to board the ferry to Victoria.
After arrival at Swartz Bay Terminal on the other side, you’ll hop back aboard the bus before heading on to Capital City Station in the heart of Victoria’s downtown.
The station is within walking distance from most Victoria hotels, Victoria Hostels, and Victoria’s best things to do.
Here are some highlights of this unforgettable adventure:
- Downtown-Downtown: You’ll receive a direct connection from Pacific Central Station to Victoria’s Capital City Station.
- All-Inclusive Ticket: Your smartphone ticket includes round-trip transportation to & from the ferry, as well as your ticket aboard the boat.
- The Scenic Route: The bus journey takes you along the beautiful coastline, providing panoramic views of the ocean and mountains.
- An Array of Attractions: From historical sites to bustling markets, you’ll encounter a diverse range of attractions en route.
- The Friendly Locals: Engage with warm and welcoming locals who are eager to share their knowledge and stories.
Sound like something you’d be interested in? Click the button below to look at schedules and buy your ticket:
Not wanting to head over to Pacific Central from downtown? You can also get hotel pickup with this exclusive offer from Viator:
Victoria Bus Comforts and Amenities
Getting Vancouver to Victoria bus tickets means you’re rolling out with a comfortable and relaxing experience.
Here’s what you can expect:
- Spacious Seating: Enjoy ample legroom and adjustable seats for a more pleasant ride.
- Onboard Amenities: Stay connected and comfortable with free Wi-Fi, power outlets, and climate control.
- Snack and Beverage Services: Quench your thirst and satisfy your hunger with a selection of snacks and beverages available for purchase once you reach the ferry terminal.
- Ferry Access: Once aboard the ferry, you’ll be free to access all of the onboard amenities, including restaurants, cafes and gift shops. Or, you can simply head out on deck to soak in the views and breathe in the cool oceanic air.
Related: The Top Vancouver to Victoria Day Tours
Vancouver to Victoria by Bus Prices
The tickets for the bus from Vancouver to Victoria are as follows:
- Adults (12 and up) – $98.08
- Children (5-11) – $49.04
- Infants (0-4) – Free
*Children under 5 are free, provided they don’t require a seat.
**An adult must accompany children under 15.
Again, for those who’d prefer getting picked up outside their front door, there is an ultra-convenient hotel pickup bus-ferry combo ticket available as well:
- Adults (12 and up) – $110.16
- Children (5-11) – $55.08
- Infants (0-4) – Free
Click the button below for more info, including schedules and hotels:
Looking for a quicker alternative? The Vancouver to Victoria seaplane will take you from downtown Vancouver to the Inner Harbour in less than 30 minutes!
Where to Buy Vancouver to Victoria Bus Tickets
Our preferred method to purchase your Victoria from Vancouver bus tickets is via our partners at Viator.
Owned by Tripadvisor, this provider offers over 300,000 different travel experiences across the globe – so you know they’re legit.
What’s more, they provide instant downloadable tickets.
They also offer free cancellations up until 24 hours before your departure and buy now, pay later options.
Here’s a quick rundown on how to use this system to get to Victoria from Vancouver by bus.
- Purchase your Vancouver to Victoria bus ticket online in advance
- Make sure to get to Pacific Central Station at least 15 minutes before your bus departs
- Head to Bay 8, and the bus driver will scan your smartphone ticket
- Board the bus and enjoy your trip to Victoria!
- These buses run three times a day – you can check out the scheduling and get more info using the orange button below:
Vancouver to Victoria by Bus Schedule
As I previously stated, they offer three departures a day – one in the morning and two in the afternoon.
However, during the off-season, things slow down a bit. You’ll only have one morning and one afternoon departure to choose from. Still, it’s better than nothing, right? But for three weeks in May, you’ll get three departures a day again – so keep your eyes peeled for the schedule.
One thing to keep in mind is the trip duration. Depending on whether or not they make a stop at Vancouver International Airport, the ride could be anywhere from 3 hours and 35 minutes to 4 hours. So, plan accordingly.
Oh, and don’t forget the golden rule – arrive at least 15 minutes before departure time! You don’t want to miss the shuttle and be stuck waiting around for the next one.
Looking for a quick escape while you’re on the island? Check out our list of the best day trips from Victoria.
Also, make sure to check out my friend’s page Vancouver Planner if you’re gonna be spending time in the city.
Vancouver to Victoria Bus FAQ
Is there a bus from Vancouver to Victoria?
Why, of course! The BC Ferries Connector runs a bus service from Vancouver to Victoria that travels between Vancouver’s Pacific Central Station and Capital City Station in downtown Victoria. The journey includes round-trip transportation to and from the ferry terminal on each side of the Salish Sea, as well as tickets aboard the ferry.
How much does a ticket for the Vancouver to Victoria bus cost?
A one-way ticket aboard the Vancouver to Victoria Bus currently costs $98.08 on the ticket provider Viator. This includes not only a comfortable journey aboard an air-conditioned coach but also tickets aboard the Vancouver to Victoria ferry.
How long does the Vancouver to Victoria bus take?
The bus to Victoria from Vancouver takes between 3.5-4 hours, depending on your journey, and makes a stop at Vancouver International Airport along the way.
How many departures of the Victoria bus are offered per day?
The number of departures varies by season. During high season and during a select time during shoulder season, there are 3 departures per day. This includes one morning departure and two in the afternoon. However, during the low season, there are only 2 departures offered, with one in the morning and one in the afternoon.
All Set for Getting from Vancouver to Victoria by Bus?
I hope I’ve managed to convince you of the ease with which you can reach our little island paradise via coach. After all, the journey doesn’t need to be as complicated as it may seem.
So what are you waiting for? Book your journey aboard the Vancouver to Victoria bus now. I wouldn’t want you to miss the boat!
Enjoy your bus trip from Vancouver to Victoria ?
Leave a reply