Nanaimo boasts one passenger ferry and two convenient vehicle/passenger ferry terminals connecting it to the Mainland.

1. Hullo Ferry (via downtown Vancouver - passengers only)

   Travel Time
   Approximately 70 minutes

   Experience
   Travel between downtown Vancouver and downtown Nanaimo with two new fast ferries built for modern travel in BC.

   Tip
   Extra sailings are added during special events like concerts, sports games, and holidays. For even more convenient travel options, be sure to check out the Hullo shuttle bus between downtown Nanaimo and the Hullo Ferry Terminal.

2. Departure Bay Terminal (via Horseshoe Bay, West Vancouver)

   Travel Time
   A scenic 1 hour and 40 minutes journey.

   Experience
   Depart from Horseshoe Bay in West Vancouver, and within less than two hours, you'll find yourself at Nanaimo's Departure Bay Terminal.

   Tip
   Consider making a reservation, especially during the summer high season and holiday weekends. The ferry offers onboard amenities such as dining options, shopping, and even a playroom to keep the little ones entertained.

3. Duke Point Terminal (via Tsawwassen)

   Travel Time
   Approximately 2 hours.

   Experience
   Depart from Tsawwassen, south of Vancouver, and arrive at Duke Point, just 15 minutes south of Nanaimo. This route offers another scenic and convenient way to reach Nanaimo.

   Tip
   Reservations are advisable, especially during peak travel times. Similar to the Departure Bay Terminal, you'll find various onboard facilities.

Nanaimo's well-connected airport ensures you can reach the city from virtually anywhere in the world.

1. Nanaimo Airport (YCD)

   Location
   A mere 18 kilometres south of downtown Nanaimo.

   Airlines
   Three major carriers – Air Canada, WestJet, and Pacific Coastal – operate here.

   Transportation
   The airport offers shuttles, taxis, rental car kiosks, as well as short and long-term parking.

FLOAT PLANE: A Scenic Sky-High Adventure

If you're in a hurry or simply want to enjoy a breathtaking view and a very cool experience, consider taking a float plane.

Airlines
Harbour Air, Sunshine Coast Air, and Seair Seaplanes operate regularly scheduled flights to and from downtown Vancouver, the Sunshine Coast, and Vancouver International Airport South Terminal, plus all offer private charter options.

Flight Time
Approximately 20-30 minutes.

HELIJET: Get Here ASAP

For a memorable and speedy journey, Helijet offers daily flights to and from Nanaimo's Cruise Ship Terminal and Vancouver's downtown helipad.

Booking
Easily reserve your seat online or over the phone.

For those with a love for boating and a desire to explore coastal British Columbia, arriving in Nanaimo by boat is an adventurous option.

Cruising into Nanaimo on your own boat allows you to set your own pace. We recommend exploring AHOYBC — a valuable resource for trip planning, to help ensure a smooth and enjoyable voyage.