Route details
Distance:
110 km / 69 miles
Driving Time:
1hr 45mins
*Subject to weather and traffic conditions.
Shared Shuttles may take longer
Return Route:
People often ask
No direct ferry runs between the two cities themselves. The trip is entirely by road via the Malahat Highway. Victoria and Nanaimo each have their own ferry terminals connecting to the Vancouver mainland (Swartz Bay in Victoria, Departure Bay in Nanaimo), but travelling between Victoria and Nanaimo directly doesn't involve a ferry crossing.
The distance is approximately 110 km (69 miles), with a typical driving time of around 1 hour 35 minutes.
Yes, scheduled bus service runs several times daily between Victoria and Nanaimo. This can be booked with Ridebooker.
Driving or a private transfer is generally the quickest option, since it skips any wait times or stops that scheduled bus service may involve.
Yes. Taxis, sedans, SUVs, vans and larger group vehicles are all available for door to door service working to your schedule on this route.
Yes, particualrly in Summer when Vancouver Island becomes a popular tourist destination. Doing so guarantees availability and pricing.
About travelling from Victoria, BC to Nanaimo, BC
Victoria to Nanaimo is a straightforward road trip on Vancouver Island. There's no ferry involved between the two cities themselves, since both sit on the island. The entire journey runs along the Malahat Highway through Duncan, Chemainus and Ladysmith. The distance is approximately 110 km (69 miles), and the drive typically takes 1 hour 35 minutes depending on traffic.
A scheduled bus service is the most common way to make this trip, with departures running several times a day between Victoria and Nanaimo. It's a reliable, budget friendly option if your plans allow some flexibility around pickup and drop off times. Busses are typically scheduled around ferry departures and the bus will drop you off at Departure Bay Ferry Terminal.
If you'd rather not share a ride or need a pickup time that fits your schedule exactly, a private transfer such as a taxi, sedan or SUV gets you there directly, door to door. This is especially useful if you're travelling with a group and want to avoid extra stops. For larger groups, vans, mini buses and private motorcoaches are also available, with capacity for up to 41 passengers.
The Malahat Highway is scenic but can be affected by weather, particularly through the fall and winter. Booking ahead means you're not scrambling to arrange transportation after a ferry from the mainland gets in.
Whether you're headed to Nanaimo to catch a ferry to the mainland, visiting family, or exploring central Vancouver Island, booking your bus or private transfer ahead of time gets you the best cost and guarantees availability.