The daily, year-round Seattle to Victoria ferry crossing takes approximately 2-3/4 hrs and is in every way, a mini-cruise on the way to a mini-vacation.

The passenger-only ferry service to Victoria on Vancouver Island is operated by Clipper Navigation & has been plying the waters of the Salish Sea to transport visitors from Washington State to Victoria British Columbia for more than 30 years.

A morning departure out of Elliot Bay in downtown Seattle and an arrival into Victoria at the downtown terminal in front of the famous Parliament buildings makes taking a vehicle to the Island nothing more than an unnecessary hassle.

This in part because Victoria employs traffic Commissioners who take their job of checking the parking meters very seriously: and it is one very lucky driver who can escape a costly parking ticket if their meter time expires.

Most of the attractions the city offers are located within walking distance of the ferry terminal so taking a vehicle is only an expensive parking problem.

The downtown to downtown ferry service enables travelers with a time limit to depart Seattle at 8 am, arrive in Victoria at 10:45, get a taste of Butchart Gardens, grab a high tea at the world-famous Empress Hotel and then jump back on the ferry to Seattle – all in time to catch the 10 pm news at home.

For those with a sense of adventure, a 2-3 hr whale watching trip might even be a consideration.

For those lucky enough to be able to spend a bit more time on this famously lovely Island, there are superb holiday deals.

These guarantees that if one books a ferry/hotel package, the cost will be substantially less than if booking a ferry and the hotel separately.

Most every popular hotel in downtown Victoria can be included in a ferry /hotel package, so take a moment to explore the offerings at the site.

Detailed information on overnight or multi-day stay in Victoria can also be had by calling 1-800-686-0446.

So from the Provincial Museum to the galleries, famous gardens, superb shopping, and fine restaurants, a Seattle – Victoria ferry vacation is a trip not to be missed.

Word of caution: the ferry almost always sells out of space- so book as far in advance as possible.

Word of encouragement: the US dollars is almost 30% higher than the Canadian dollar.

So don’t wait too long before you check your calendar, select a date & make a reservation & hop aboard.