If you’ve never taken the ferry before, don’t worry — it’s easy once you know the steps! Here’s what to do:

1. Get to the Swartz Bay Ferry Terminal

The ferry to Pender Island departs from the Swartz Bay terminal, located about 30–40 minutes north of downtown Victoria.

2. Plan Ahead — Ferries Can Be Busy

Ferries to Pender Island are often full, especially on weekends and holidays.

If you're bringing a vehicle, it’s a good idea to arrive at least 60–90 minutes early to ensure a spot.

If you're walking on, aim to arrive at least 30 minutes early.

Check the schedule and capacity online at bcferries.com

3. Buy Your Ticket

You can buy your ticket at the terminal when you arrive.

Tickets are round-trip from Victoria — you only pay once when leaving Swartz Bay. No need to pay again when leaving Pender, unless you're going anywhere other than Victoria.

4. Boarding the Ferry

Listen for announcements and follow signs/staff directions for boarding.

The ferry ride to Pender Island takes about 40 minutes to 1 hour, depending on the sailing.

*This ferry will sometimes stop at other Islands AFTER it stops at Pender, but Pender is always first unless stated otherwise*

https://www.bcferries.com/

Heading to Pender Island from Vancouver? Here's everything you need to know:

1. Get to the Tsawwassen Ferry Terminal

Ferries to Pender Island leave from the Tsawwassen terminal.

2. Pender Island Sailings Are Limited & Can Get Full

There are only a few direct sailings to Pender Island each week from Tsawwassen. Other sailings require a transfer at Salt Spring or Swartz Bay.

These ferries can fill up fast, especially on weekends, long weekends, and holidays.

If you’re bringing a vehicle, arrive at least 90 minutes early to increase your chances of getting on.

If you’re walking on, try to get there at least 30–45 minutes before departure. We highly recommend making a reservation if you're driving.

You can check schedules and capacity at bcferries.com.

3. Buying Your Ticket

You’ll buy your ticket at the terminal when you arrive.

4. During the Ferry Ride

Depending on the sailing, the ride can take anywhere from 1.5 to 2.5 hours, sometimes with stops at other Gulf Islands.

There are washrooms, indoor seating, and a small café or vending machines onboard.

Enjoy the ocean views — it’s a beautiful trip!

5. Arriving at Pender Island

The ferry docks at Otter Bay on North Pender Island.

Tips

Make a reservation for your vehicle online if your sailing offers it — this guarantees you a spot.

There may be limited sailings per day, so double-check the schedule before you travel.

https://www.bcferries.com/