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Travel advisory: Busy Weekend Expected View ×

Posted: Friday, April 18, 2025

Easter Long Weekend
April 18 – April 21, 2025

Easter long weekend is a popular time for travel on the coast. Busy travel days are expected from Friday, April 18 through Monday, April 21 on the following routes:

•    Vancouver (Tsawwassen) – Victoria (Swartz Bay)
•    Vancouver (Tsawwassen) – Southern Gulf Islands
•    Vancouver (Tsawwassen) – Nanaimo (Duke Point)
•    Vancouver (Horseshoe Bay) – Nanaimo (Departure Bay)
•    Vancouver (Horseshoe Bay) – Sunshine Coast (Langdale)
•    Vancouver Island – Gulf Islands

Historically, the most popular day to travel from the Lower Mainland to Vancouver Island and the Sunshine Coast is Friday, from our Tsawwassen and Horseshoe Bay terminals. Monday is typically the most popular day for travel back to the Lower Mainland.

Customers planning to travel with a vehicle without a reservation should be prepared for sailing waits during popular times to travel. If reservations are sold out, the best option to avoid sailing waits is to travel during less busy times, typically mid-week days and early morning or late evening sailings, or walk on board.

Click here to view Travel Tips and here for Service Notices.

We look forward to welcoming you on board this Easter Long Weekend.

For schedule information and bookings, visit bcferries.com. For up-to-date travel information, check Current Conditions and follow @BCFerries on Twitter.

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Coastline of Port Alberni with Camper Trailer driving along road

Port Alberni, BC


OVERVIEW

Surrounded by lush forests and ocean inlets, Port Alberni is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts. Explore scenic hiking trails, paddle along the tranquil waters of Sproat Lake, or cast a line in the “Salmon Capital of the World.” With its rich Indigenous heritage, vibrant waterfront, and easy access to Vancouver Island’s rugged west coast, adventure is found around every corner.

Port Alberni map with BC Ferries routes and nearby cities on Vancouver Island

Places to stay


Top things to do

Nearby cities

Person walking on wooden boardwalk alongside beach in Parksville on Vancouver Island

Parksville

Explore the quaint, waterfront town of Parksville, BC. With beaches that stretch as far as the eye can see and postcard-worthy views, this is the perfect spot for a getaway. 

There are plenty of local eateries to try, along with hiking trails and a lively shopping centre. Whether you visit Parksville in the summer or winter, there will be no shortage of new activities to try. 

Coastal landscape view of Pacific Rim National Park and the surrounding mountains in Tofino BC

Tofino

Visit the popular destination of Tofino, in Tla-o-qui-aht territory, to see the rugged beauty of the west coast.  With laid-back surfer vibes, the downtown offers a variety of charming shops and restaurants. 

The beach is the place to be in any weather here, spending sunny beach days enjoying endless sandy beaches or watching Mother Nature put on a show with epic storm watching opportunities. 

Whether you are catching a wave while surfing, or catching an unbelievable sunset, this is a Vancouver Island gem you won't want to miss. 

Aerial landscape view of Ucluelet marina harbour and forest on Vancouver Island

Ucluelet

Escape to Ucluelet to enjoy a quiet town on a peninsula adjacent to Pacific Rim National Park, and just 30 minutes from Tofino. You can explore the rainforest along the coast, watch wildlife like whales and sea lions swimming in the area, and visit nearby white sandy beaches. 

Boats in harbour of waterfront marina in Nanaimo BC on Vancouver Island

Nanaimo

Sail from Vancouver (Tsawwassen or Horseshoe Bay) to Nanaimo for a stop in Vancouver Island’s second-largest city. Socialize with friends over a round of golf at one of several local golf courses, or stroll through the Old City Quarter. Looking for adventure? Canoe, kayak or paddleboard along the waterfront, or explore natural wonders at nearby provincial parks and waterfalls.


 
 
 
Disclaimer

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BC Ferries does not control, monitor, or investigate third-party websites or information, and disclaims all responsibility for its accuracy, quality, and safety. Information contained in the links may be changed or updated at any time without notice. In case of a conflict, the information on a third-party website will take precedence over any information on BC Ferries’ website and BC Ferries will be under no obligation to honor any difference in advertised price, terms, discount, or other benefit. It is your responsibility to understand these terms and verify any information contained within linked websites before relying on it. We recommend that you conduct your own research on the third-party, including their own policies, and exercise caution when making travel or event-related decisions. For further details or inquiries about specific events or destinations, please contact the respective third-party providers directly.

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