What’s the Distance Between Tsawwassen and Downtown Vancouver?

Planning a trip to Vancouver Island and just realized the ferry terminal is in Tsawwassen—not downtown Vancouver? You’re not alone.

“How far is Tsawwassen from downtown Vancouver?” is one of the top things visitors ask right after “How do I get there without renting a car?”

Here’s exactly what you need to know—and a few tips before you try to wing it from Burrard Station with a suitcase and no data.

How Far Is Tsawwassen From Downtown Vancouver?

Good question—it’s about 35 kilometres (22 miles) from downtown Vancouver to the Tsawwassen Ferry Terminal.

It’s not too far, but the pesky Vancouver traffic can make the trip take 50-90 minutes, so you’ll want to have your transport game on point to avoid missing the boat.

It sounds simple, but trust me—this can trip people up if they don’t have a vehicle. I’ve seen visitors standing at Waterfront Station thinking the ferry was just a quick SkyTrain away. It’s not. There’s no direct SkyTrain, and transit involves a transfer or two unless you plan ahead.

Let’s get you sorted.

The Best Way To Get From Downtown Vancouver To Tsawwassen

It goes without saying that the easiest way to get to Tsawwassen Terminal is by driving. Once you’re out of Vancouver, it’s a straight shot south on Highway 99, transfer to Highway 17, and you’re there.

If you’re a local or you’ve got a family, this is clearly your best option. Plus, you’ll have the most flexibility to explore the island on your Vancouver Island road trip.

BC Ferries Connector

Don’t have a vehicle? Don’t stress—there is an easy way to get from downtown to Tsawwassen without piecing together bus schedules or standing around the Skytrain platform.

I always recommend the all-in-one BC Ferries Connector bus combo. It’s run by BC Ferries in partnership with a private coach line and leaves right from downtown Vancouver (multiple pick-up points, including Pacific Central Station and YVR).

It takes you directly to the ferry in one go. The ticket includes bus + ferry in one booking, and honestly, it’s a lifesaver if you don’t want to deal with Compass Cards, transfers, or missed connections. It costs a bit more, sure.

But you can book it online in advance, and that peace of mind is worth the few extra bucks.

🚌 Want to learn more? Check out our complete guide to the Vancouver to Victoria bus.

Skytrain + Express Bus

One time, I tried the public transit route—SkyTrain from City Centre to Bridgeport Station, then the #620 Tsawwassen Ferry bus to the terminal—and it worked, but a delay on the tracks almost made me miss the ferry.

It’ll cost you around $5–$9, depending on the time of day. Just allow 80–90 minutes, especially if there’s luggage involved.

This option is fine for a local or a budget traveller, but if you’re catching a specific sailing or travelling during holidays, I’d recommend taking the combo.

🚊 Taking public transit? Have a quick look at our Vancouver public transport mega guide.

Vancouver to Victoria Tours

Are you short on time? Maybe you’d prefer a Vancouver to Victoria tour that includes hotel pickup, transport, entry to Butchart Gardens, and time to explore Victoria’s Inner Harbour.

These are great for out-of-towners who don’t have time to explore the island, but would like to make a quick visit to Victoria.

I won’t get into too much depth here, but there are a number of exciting packages on offer. You can take a look at the options by clicking the button below:

⛴️ Heading to the island? Check out our Vancouver to Victoria ferry guide so you don’t miss the boat.

The BC Ferries Connector

Looking to Visit the Island? Book Your Vancouver to Victoria Bus Now

Click for low price guarantee

Have More Questions?

If that clears things up for you, amazing. If not—drop a comment below, or hit me up on social. I write all the transport guides at Vancouver Planner, and my goal is to help you move around like a local without sweating the small stuff.

Let me know how your trip goes—or if you need help with Victoria, Whistler, or figuring out how the heck Compass Card zones work. Always happy to help.