Ferries between Duke Point and Tsawwassen
Ferry between Duke Point (Nanaimo) and Tsawwassen (Vancouver)
This ferry route is a key connection between Vancouver Island and the BC mainland, operated by BC Ferries. It links Duke Point, located just south of downtown Nanaimo, with Tsawwassen, about 30 minutes from downtown Vancouver. It’s a preferred route for travelers with vehicles, especially those heading north on Vancouver Island.
In short:
- Route: Duke Point ↔ Tsawwassen
- Province: British Columbia
- Operated by: BC Ferries
- Duration: ~2 hours
- Distance: ~25 miles (40 km)
- Sailings: Up to 8 times per day
- Vehicle access: ✅ Yes – ideal for cars, trucks, RVs, and motorcycles
- Estimated price (2 passengers + car, return): ~$100
- Walk-on fares: $19–$63 (one way, depending on passenger type)
Let’s start with the map so we know what we’re looking at:
Map: ferries to Vancouver and Nanaimo
Ferries Nanaimo – Vancouver
The Duke Point to Tsawwassen ferry is a reliable two-hour crossing connecting central Vancouver Island to the BC mainland. Ideal for vehicle travelers and RVs, it runs multiple times daily and offers an efficient alternative to more scenic routes. Located just south of Nanaimo, Duke Point also gives access to Jack Point Park—perfect for a short walk before or after your trip.
Booking Tips
- Reservations are recommended, especially for vehicles during weekends or peak season
- Arrive early, as check-in lines can be long—even with a reservation
- Prices are identical to the Tsawwassen ↔ Swartz Bay route
Terminal Info
- Duke Point Ferry Terminal
400 Duke Point Hwy, Nanaimo, BC - ~12 km (~15–20 min) from downtown Nanaimo
- Don’t miss: Jack Point and Biggs Park, located right by the terminal. This underrated park offers trails, wildlife viewing, and sunset views across the Nanaimo estuary.
Tsawwassen Ferry Terminal
- 1 Ferry Causeway, Tsawwassen, BC
- ~30 minutes from Vancouver city centre
- ~10 minutes from Richmond
- ~40 minutes from Burnaby
Onboard Experience
- Food and drinks available (though on the pricier side—consider bringing your own)
- Terminals and ferries are accessible, though foot passengers may face longer walks
- Pets allowed in designated areas (inside your vehicle or pet-friendly zones.
On board, vessels & route maps
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- Picture of a BC Ferries vessel taken from Swartz Bay
Booking your ferry tickets
Using the online booking system, you can compare prices, timetables, and availability with just a few clicks. Enter your travel dates and select the crossing that best suits your needs. It’s simple and saves time.
Pro Tip: During peak seasons, ferries can book up quickly. Secure your tickets early, especially if traveling with a vehicle.
Route Highlights
While this route offers less dramatic coastal scenery than the Horseshoe Bay–Departure Bay route, it offers a smooth and efficient ride across the Strait of Georgia. It's well-suited for commercial travel and road trips to/from central and northern Vancouver Island.
About this route:
- It’s the main ferry route for commercial traffic to Vancouver Island
- Offers quick access to Nanaimo and Highway 1
- It is more relaxed and efficient than Departure Bay for many vehicle travelers
- Connects travelers with Vancouver’s southern suburbs and highway routes.
