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CANADA
DESTINATIONS
Vancouver
Toronto
Montreal
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Victoria/
Vancouver Island
Ski Destinations
Off the Beaten Path
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Destinations
Vancouver Island
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Vancouver Island is a must see stop. The adventure starts with your trip there whether you go by ferry, seaplane or backpacker tour. Once there, you’ll have ample opportunities for whale watching, hiking, kayaking, surfing and exploring the wonderful beauty and nature of the Island.
Where is Vancouver Island
Vancouver Island is located off the west coast of mainland Canada. It's a 3-3.5hr trip by ferry to Victoria or Naniamo from Vancouver or a 2.5hr high-speed catamaran ride from Seattle. If you can afford it, it's a quick, and spectacular flight from Vancouver harbor to Victoria harbor.
Coach, Ferry & Tour
Ferry BC Ferries ($10.55Cn, 90 mins, 250-386-3431) leaves from Tsawwassen to Nanaimo and Victoria and Horseshoe Bay to Nanaimo (both terminals are 45 minutes from Vancouver). Coach Pacific Coach Lines from Pacific Central Station to Victoria via ferry for $36.50Cn (3.5hrs). Tours True North Tours offer tours and adventure trips of 3-10 days.
Island Highlights
Nanaimo VI's second largest city is also known as Harbour City. You can hike, bike, bungy and kayak here. There’s also a growing arts scene. A good base to explore the island.
Victoria this small town with a British feel offers good hostels, fun parties and killer whale expeditions. Victoria is a good jumping off point for exploring the island. Locally, don’t miss the Butchart Gardens, whale watching and the Empress Hotel.
Tofino, located on the rugged west coast of Vancouver Island, offers surfing, kayaking, and whale watching among other adventure activities.
Additional Highlights Pacific Rim National Park, Strathcona, San Juan de Fuca trail and towns including Tofino, Port Alberni, Ucluelet and Courtenay.
