Nanaimo (Departure Bay)

Departure Bay terminal is located in Nanaimo on the east coast of Vancouver Island. The terminal is a 5 minute drive north of Nanaimo city centre. Sailings departing from Departure Bay provide service to Horseshoe Bay (Vancouver). Visit the Nanaimo Market Quay for a range of food and shopping options.

Note: Departure Bay terminal is closed overnight. Remaining on terminal property outside service hours is not permitted. Please plan transit pick-up and drop-off times accordingly.

Check-in times

With a reservation – Arrive at the terminal 30 to 60 minutes prior to the scheduled departure. Your booking will not be honoured and travel will be based on your order of arrival at the terminal if you arrive before booking check-in has opened, or after booking check-in has closed.

• Booking check-in for foot passenger groups and vehicles opens 60 minutes prior to the scheduled departure.
• Booking check-in for foot passenger groups and vehicles closes 30 minutes prior to the scheduled departure.

Without a reservation – Travel is based on your order of arrival at the terminal. 

• Ticket sales and check-in for vehicles close 5 minutes prior to the scheduled sailing departure.
• Ticket sales and check-in for foot passengers close 10 minutes prior to the scheduled sailing departure.

Assured Loading – If you have an Assured Loading Card and plan to use it, arrive at the terminal 20 to 60 minutes prior to the scheduled departure and provide your card to the ticket agent.