From Vancouver: Seaplane To Victoria With Bus & Ferry Return

Exploring the charming city of Victoria just got easier. This day trip package from Vancouver offers a seamless and budget-friendly way to experience the best of both cities. Travelers can soar above the scenic landscapes on a seaplane, then dive into the vibrant culture and attractions of Victoria. With the return journey by bus and ferry, the experience is both convenient and comfortable. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned local, this package promises an unforgettable day filled with stunning views and enchanting discoveries. But the real question is, where will your adventure begin?

Key Points

Scenic 35-minute seaplane flight from Vancouver to Victoria’s downtown harbor, providing panoramic views of the Salish Sea and Vancouver skyline.
Explore the charming city of Victoria for a full day, visiting iconic landmarks like the British Columbia Parliament Buildings and Craigdarroch Castle.
Return to Vancouver via a comfortable BC Ferries Connector bus to Swartz Bay, followed by a 1.5-hour ferry crossing back to downtown.
Inclusive package price of $298.07 per person, covering seaplane airfare, bus ticket, and return ferry trip, with all taxes and fees included.
Valid passport or government-issued identification required for check-in, with passengers arriving 40 minutes prior to the scheduled 9:30 am seaplane departure.

It's also worth checking out some other tours and experiences nearby.

Overview of the Day’s Activities

This scenic seaplane flight from Vancouver to Victoria, British Columbia, allows travelers to explore the charming city of Victoria for a full day before returning to Vancouver via bus and ferry.

The day starts with check-in at Harbour Air’s downtown Vancouver terminal at 8:50 am, followed by a 35-minute seaplane ride to Victoria at 9:30 am.

Once in Victoria, travelers can spend the day discovering the city’s historic architecture, bustling harbor, and lush gardens.

At 3:15 pm, they’ll head to the bus depot to catch the coach to Swartz Bay Ferry Terminal, where they’ll board the 1.5-hour ferry sailing back to downtown Vancouver, arriving at 7:40 pm.

Checking in at the Vancouver Terminal

Passengers arrive at Harbour Air’s downtown Vancouver terminal 40 minutes prior to their 9:30 am seaplane departure to complete the check-in process.

Once checked in, they can relax in the terminal’s comfortable waiting area before boarding their flight to Victoria. There, they’ll hand over their passport or ID for verification and receive their boarding pass.

The check-in staff are friendly and efficient, ensuring a smooth start to the day’s adventure.

With just a short wait, passengers will soon be taking to the skies, enjoying the scenic 35-minute seaplane ride over the sparkling waters of the Salish Sea on their way to the charming city of Victoria.

Scenic Seaplane Flight to Victoria

After completing the check-in process, passengers board the seaplane for their 35-minute flight to the picturesque city of Victoria.

They’ll soar over the sparkling waters of the Salish Sea, taking in breathtaking aerial views of the rugged West Coast landscape below. The seaplane’s smooth, efficient ride transports them directly to Victoria’s Inner Harbour, providing a unique and scenic start to their day exploring the charming British Columbia capital.

The scenic seaplane flight includes:

Panoramic views of the Vancouver skyline and North Shore mountains
Glimpses of the Gulf Islands and Strait of Georgia
A bird’s-eye perspective of the Capital Regional District
Direct landing in the heart of downtown Victoria
A smooth, comfortable journey to kickstart the Victoria adventure

Exploring the City of Victoria

With the scenic seaplane flight complete, travelers can now enjoy the charm and history of Victoria. The city’s bustling Inner Harbour offers a wealth of activities and attractions to explore during the full day allotted. From wandering the picturesque streets lined with Victorian architecture to visiting iconic landmarks like the British Columbia Parliament Buildings, there’s no shortage of ways to experience the best of this Vancouver Island destination.

Top Attractions	Cost
Royal BC Museum	$27.50
Craigdarroch Castle	$19.50
Butchart Gardens	$34.75

Whether you’re strolling through quaint neighborhoods or enjoying the city’s rich heritage, Victoria promises an unforgettable day of discovery.

Boarding the Coach Bus to Swartz Bay

Having explored the sights and sounds of Victoria, travelers make their way back to the Capital City Station bus depot to begin the next leg of their journey.

They’ll board the BC Ferries Connector bus for the scenic drive to Swartz Bay Ferry Terminal.

The coach offers a comfortable ride with:

Large windows for admiring the passing coastal scenery
Onboard restrooms for convenience
Space for luggage storage
Climate control for a pleasant journey
Free WiFi to stay connected

With an efficient check-in process at the depot, it’s an easy transition from city exploration to the ferry crossing back to Vancouver.

This seamless connection ensures a stress-free travel experience.

Sailing Back to Downtown Vancouver

The BC Ferries vessel departs Swartz Bay Terminal promptly at 5:00 pm, beginning the 1.5-hour crossing back to downtown Vancouver.

Passengers relax in the comfortable interior cabins or venture outside to the open-air decks, taking in the scenic coastal vistas as the ferry glides through the tranquil waters.

The onboard amenities include a cafeteria serving hot meals and snacks, as well as a gift shop for last-minute souvenir shopping.

With the return trip included in the tour package, travelers can sit back and enjoy the ride, reflecting on the day’s adventures in Victoria.

As the ferry nears the Vancouver waterfront, passengers prepare to disembark, eager to continue their journey or head home.

Taxes, Fees, and Inclusions

The package price of $298.07 per person includes the one-way seaplane airfare, bus ticket, and return ferry trip, along with all applicable taxes and fees. This comprehensive offering ensures a seamless travel experience from start to finish.

The inclusions are:

One-way seaplane flight from Vancouver to Victoria (35-minute duration)
Bus ticket for the journey from Victoria to the Swartz Bay Ferry Terminal
Return ferry sailing from Swartz Bay to downtown Vancouver
All relevant taxes and mandatory fees
No hidden costs or surprises

This budget-friendly package provides excellent value, allowing travelers to focus on enjoying the scenic wonders of Victoria and the convenience of hassle-free transportation to and from the island.

Passenger Requirements and Check-in

Passengers must present a valid passport or government-issued identification at check-in, which is required 40 minutes prior to the scheduled 9:30 am seaplane departure from Harbour Air’s downtown Vancouver terminal. This gives staff enough time to process paperwork and ensure all passengers are prepared to board the aircraft.

Children aged 2-11 are eligible for a discounted fare, but they must also have the proper identification.

It’s important to note that passengers must be able to board the seaplane unaided, as no special assistance is provided. Adhering to these requirements will help the check-in process run smoothly and allow everyone to enjoy a seamless and hassle-free start to their scenic journey to Victoria.

Here's a few more nearby tours and experiences we think you'll like.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is the Check-In Time for the Seaplane Flight?

Passengers must check in 40 minutes prior to the seaplane’s scheduled 9:30 am departure time. This allows enough time to complete check-in procedures and board the aircraft without delay.

Can Passengers Bring Large Bags on the Seaplane?

Passengers can bring small bags on the seaplane, but large luggage may not be allowed. Check with the airline for specific size and weight restrictions to avoid additional fees. Carry-on items should be compact and easy to stow.

Is There a Discount for Seniors or Students?

The tour offers a senior discount of 15% and a student discount of 10% with valid ID. Passengers should inquire about these discounts when booking to get the best deal on this scenic sightseeing excursion.

Can I Extend My Stay in Victoria on My Own?

Yes, you can extend your stay in Victoria on your own. The package includes only one-way seaplane transportation and a return bus/ferry combo. You’ll need to book any additional Victoria accommodations and activities independently.

Is There a Guaranteed Window Seat on the Seaplane?

Window seats aren’t guaranteed on the seaplane. However, passengers can request them during check-in, and they’ll be assigned based on availability. The seaplane offers scenic views throughout the flight, so any seat provides a great experience.

Not for you? Here's more of our most recent tour reviews happening neaby