Taking an RV on the Ferry to Vancouver Island

Quick summary: Vehicle ferries carry RVs from the Vancouver area to Vancouver Island and the Sunshine Coast. From Tsawwassen, south of the city, ferries run to Swartz Bay near Victoria and to Duke Point near Nanaimo; from Horseshoe Bay, in West Vancouver, they run to Departure Bay in Nanaimo and to the Sunshine Coast. Ferry charges depend on vehicle length, so a campervan or smaller motorhome costs less than a large Class A.

At a glance
Tsawwassen to Swartz Bay	For Victoria
Tsawwassen to Duke Point	For Nanaimo and the north island
Horseshoe Bay to Departure Bay	For Nanaimo and Tofino
Horseshoe Bay to Langdale	For the Sunshine Coast
Pricing	Based on vehicle length
Tours	Victoria tours

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Which ferry should you take?

Destination	Route
Victoria and Butchart Gardens	Tsawwassen to Swartz Bay
Nanaimo, Parksville, Tofino	Horseshoe Bay to Departure Bay, or Tsawwassen to Duke Point
Sunshine Coast	Horseshoe Bay to Langdale

Should you reserve a sailing for an RV?

Yes, in summer and on holiday weekends. Larger vehicles have fewer spaces, and waiting for the next sailing can cost hours. Arrive early even with a reservation.

Is the ferry crossing scenic?

Very. The route to Swartz Bay threads through the Gulf Islands, with chances to spot orcas, seals and eagles.

Can you make a loop?

Yes. Take one ferry out and another back, such as Tsawwassen to Swartz Bay and Departure Bay to Horseshoe Bay. See Vancouver Island in 7 days.

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Frequently Asked Questions