how far from seattle to victoria bc

How Far is Seattle from Victoria, BC?

The distance between Seattle, Washington, and Victoria, British Columbia, Canada, varies depending on your mode of transportation. By ferry, the journey typically covers around 74 nautical miles (approximately 85 miles or 137 kilometers). By air, the straight-line distance (also known as the “as the crow flies” distance) is about 75 miles (121 kilometers).

Distance by Ferry

The most common way to travel between Seattle and Victoria is by ferry. Several ferry services operate on this route. The most well-known is the Victoria Clipper, a passenger-only ferry that offers a direct route. Other options include taking a Washington State Ferry to Sidney, BC, and then driving to Victoria. The total distance covered by ferry is usually around 85 miles (137 kilometers), but the exact distance can vary slightly based on the specific route.

Ferry Duration

The duration of the ferry trip also depends on the ferry service used. The Victoria Clipper typically takes around 2 hours and 45 minutes to 3 hours for a direct trip. If you opt for a Washington State Ferry to Sidney, the ferry portion takes about 1 hour and 30 minutes, but you must factor in additional travel time from Sidney to Victoria, which is roughly a 30-minute drive.

Distance by Air

For those seeking the quickest option, flying is another possibility. The straight-line distance between Seattle and Victoria is approximately 75 miles (121 kilometers). A direct flight takes around 30-45 minutes, excluding travel time to and from the airports and security checks.

Distance by Road (Indirect)

While there is no direct road connection between Seattle and Victoria, it is possible to drive. This would involve driving north into Canada, taking ferries, and then driving south to Victoria. This route is significantly longer and more complex, covering several hundred miles. Driving from Seattle to Victoria is not a common method of travel.

FAQs

How long is the ferry ride from Seattle to Victoria?

The ferry ride from Seattle to Victoria takes approximately 2 hours and 45 minutes to 3 hours on the Victoria Clipper.

Is it better to take the ferry or fly from Seattle to Victoria?

The ferry is generally more scenic and allows you to bring luggage more easily. Flying is faster but may be more expensive and involve airport procedures.

Can you drive from Seattle to Victoria?

You cannot drive directly from Seattle to Victoria. You would need to drive into Canada and take a ferry to Vancouver Island.

How much does the ferry cost from Seattle to Victoria?

The cost of the ferry varies depending on the season, the ferry service, and the type of ticket purchased. Check the ferry operator’s website for current pricing.

Do I need a passport to travel from Seattle to Victoria?

Yes, you will need a valid passport or other accepted travel document to cross the US-Canada border when traveling between Seattle and Victoria.

Summary

The distance between Seattle and Victoria is roughly 85 miles (137 kilometers) by ferry and about 75 miles (121 kilometers) by air. The ferry offers a scenic and convenient travel option, while flying provides the fastest route. Driving is possible but requires a significantly longer and more complex route involving ferries.