British Columbia Ferries   by Robert Tellier

in Travel / Travel Tips    (submitted 2011-05-30)

Ferry Travel on British Columbia Ferries

If you and your family are planning to take some Holidays in Canada, then taking a ferry is a must if visiting the west coast. Taking a journey on one of the many routes BC Ferries has to offer is simply a 'must do' plan that should not be missed. The scenery on any one of the routes is nothing short of breathtaking!

Growing up on the west coast on Vancouver Island in the City of Victoria and having taken the ferry more times than I possibly can remember and I'm still amazed by the natural beauty when making the crossing from Victoria to Vancouver. Our family have travelled to many beautiful places in the world over the years, but when you experience travel as this, the spectacular scenery still always ceases to amaze me.

Spectacular Scenery - BC Ferry Travel

The BC Ferry service is operated by the Provincial Government in British Columbia. They are presently the biggest passenger service in North America for travel by ferry. The present fleet of ships is at 36 with many of the ships having been refurbished over the years. The present fleet serves 49 different locations surrounding the BC coast.

The most popular routes are from the mainland or Vancouver area to/from the cities of Victoria and Nanaimo on Vancouver Island. This crossing take approximately 1 ½ hours each way, giving you just enough time to enjoy a meal and take in the natural beauty. All the ships are equipped to handle vehicle traffic large and small. There are 2 beautiful 'super ferries' operating between these routes that are capable of handling 2100 passengers with crew members and 470 vehicles. From semi transport trucks moving goods to and from the mainland to Recreational Vehicles to bicycles, BC has made this form of travel easy for every one of all needs.

Ferry Travel Made Easy - Walk On or Drive On

You can walk on as a foot passenger, take a bus or ride in personal vehicle, it's up to you. During peak times of the year (May - Sept) if you're driving, making reservations is simple and highly recommended. Things get very busy, especially during the peak summer months with tourists taking their Holidays in Canada and visiting the Islands on the west coast.

Many of the smaller ships travel the many surrounding Gulf Islands and Discovery Islands on the west coast of Canada. Each island is unique in its own way, just waiting for you to explore. Camping, hiking, kayaking, bird watching, beachcombing, it's all here waiting for you and your family to enjoy.

Many times making this scenic crossing, we've seen killer whales just yards away from the ship, sea lions, seals and other amazing marine life. The ships are designed for tourist travel, with outdoor viewing decks surrounding the vessel and equipped with all the amenities you may need. Buffet style restaurants, coffee shops, convenience stores, washrooms, private areas and much more. Travelling this way has never been so good on these types of ships.

It's a great time to start planning your holidays. Why not consider taking your Holidays in Canada this year and enjoying ferry travel on the west coast in Beautiful British Columbia!

Happy travels!
Robert Tellier

About the Author

Robert Tellier - Sharing special tips, travel information,destinations and much more making family travel stress-free and enjoyable.
For more detailed travel information on BC Ferries,please visit: Holidays for Family