Overview
The Tsawwassen BC Ferries Terminal sits on a peninsula at the southern edge of Metro Vancouver, in the municipality of Delta, British Columbia. It is one of the busiest ferry terminals in North America and serves as the mainland departure point for two major routes: Tsawwassen–Swartz Bay (near Victoria on Vancouver Island) and Tsawwassen–Duke Point (Nanaimo). It also provides service to several Southern Gulf Islands, including Galiano, Mayne, Pender, Saturna, and Salt Spring Island.
For most travelers, the terminal is a transit hub rather than a destination in itself. That said, the surrounding area—including Boundary Bay and the adjacent Tsawwassen First Nation lands—offers modest interest for those with time to spare before boarding. The Tsawwassen Mills shopping centre is located very close to the terminal and is a practical stop for provisions or a meal.
The terminal facilities are functional and well-maintained, with covered waiting areas, food concessions, free Wi-Fi, washrooms, and vehicle staging lanes. BC Ferries operates a reservation system on most routes, which is strongly recommended during summer weekends and holiday periods to avoid multi-sailing waits.
Before You Go
Reservations
BC Ferries offers reservations on the Tsawwassen–Swartz Bay and Tsawwassen–Duke Point routes. Booking in advance—especially for vehicles on summer Fridays, Saturdays, and long weekends—can save several hours of waiting. Check the BC Ferries website (bcferries.com) for current availability, pricing, and booking windows.
Fares
Fares vary by route, passenger type, and vehicle size. Foot passengers, cyclists, and vehicle passengers are priced separately. Current fares and any senior or discount programs should be verified directly on the BC Ferries website, as they are updated periodically.
What to Bring
- Identification (required for international travelers and recommended for all)
- Payment method; credit cards are accepted but confirm current payment options on the official site
- Layers of clothing; the terminal and vessel decks can be cool and windy even in summer
- Entertainment or snacks for longer crossings (the Swartz Bay route is approximately 1.5 hours)
Visas
Entry requirements for Canada vary by nationality. For guidance specific to your passport, visit the TravelerPulse Visas section and the official Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) website.
Getting There
By Car
The terminal is accessed via Highway 17 (South Fraser Perimeter Road / Tsawwassen Ferry Causeway). From Vancouver or Surrey, follow Highway 99 south to the Highway 17 exit toward Tsawwassen. GPS navigation to "Tsawwassen BC Ferries Terminal" is reliable. Parking is available at the terminal for a fee; verify current rates with BC Ferries.
By Transit
TransLink bus service connects the Tsawwassen Ferry Terminal to the broader Metro Vancouver transit network. The 620 bus route links the terminal to Bridgeport Station on the Canada Line (SkyTrain), allowing foot passengers to reach downtown Vancouver by rapid transit. Check TransLink's trip planner (translink.ca) for current schedules, as service frequency varies by day and time.
By Taxi or Rideshare
Taxis and app-based rideshare services operate between the terminal and major Metro Vancouver points. Travel times vary significantly with traffic, particularly on Highway 99 during peak hours.
From the Airport
YVR (Vancouver International Airport) is located on Sea Island, accessible via the Canada Line. Foot passengers can take the Canada Line to Bridgeport Station and transfer to the 620 bus. The journey typically takes roughly one hour total, though this depends on ferry and bus schedules—verify connections in advance.
Getting Around
The terminal area itself is compact and walkable for foot passengers. Vehicle drivers remain with or near their cars in staged queuing lanes. Onboard the ferries, passengers are free to move between car decks, passenger lounges, cafeteria, and outdoor observation decks.
If you are a foot passenger arriving at a Gulf Island destination or Swartz Bay without a vehicle, be aware that local transit on the Gulf Islands is very limited, and services on Vancouver Island vary by location. Plan onward transportation—such as rental cars, taxis, or local bus connections—before departing. BC Transit serves the Greater Victoria area from Swartz Bay.
Things to See & Do
Near the Terminal
- Boundary Bay Regional Park: A short drive from the terminal, this park features tidal flats, a sandy beach, and habitat for migratory birds. It is one of the most significant shorebird staging areas on the Pacific Flyway.
- Tsawwassen First Nation Community: The Tsawwassen First Nation holds treaty land adjacent to the terminal. Travelers should be respectful of community spaces; there are no formal visitor attractions, but the context of Canada's first urban treaty First Nation is historically significant.
- Tsawwassen Mills: A large regional shopping centre immediately adjacent to the terminal. Useful for last-minute supplies, a meal, or passing time before boarding.
On the Ferry
The crossing itself is a draw for many travelers. The Swartz Bay route passes through the Southern Gulf Islands, offering views of forested islands, the Strait of Georgia, and often marine wildlife including seals, porpoises, and seabirds. Outdoor deck space is available on most vessels.
Food & Drink
At the Terminal
The terminal has a food concession offering basic hot food, snacks, and beverages. Options are limited and oriented toward quick service before boarding.
Onboard the Ferries
Larger vessels on the Tsawwassen–Swartz Bay route have cafeteria-style restaurants and, on some sailings, a Pacific Buffet dining option. Quality and menu options vary by vessel; check the BC Ferries website for current onboard services.
Nearby
Tsawwassen Mills and the surrounding commercial area along 56th Street offer a wide range of chain restaurants and fast food outlets. Downtown Tsawwassen (a few minutes by car) has independent cafes and restaurants serving the local community. If you are looking for a sit-down meal before a sailing, arriving early enough to eat locally is advisable rather than relying on terminal concessions alone.
Practical Information
Terminal Facilities
- Covered and indoor waiting areas for foot passengers
- Vehicle staging lanes with overhead signage
- Washrooms and baby-changing facilities
- Free Wi-Fi (verify availability on the BC Ferries website)
- Accessible features including ramps and designated vehicle spaces; contact BC Ferries in advance if you have specific accessibility needs
Luggage
Foot passengers are responsible for carrying their own luggage onto and off the vessel. There are no luggage storage facilities at the terminal. Large or unwieldy items may require a vehicle booking.
Pets
Pets are permitted on BC Ferries vessels. Small pets may be allowed in some passenger areas; larger animals and most dogs are typically required to remain in vehicles or in designated pet areas on vehicle decks. Confirm current pet policies with BC Ferries before travel.
Emergency Contacts
For emergencies, dial 911. For non-emergency BC Ferries inquiries, use the contact information listed on bcferries.com. Verify any phone numbers directly with BC Ferries rather than relying on third-party sources.
Safety
The Tsawwassen terminal and surrounding area are generally safe for travelers. Standard urban precautions apply: keep valuables out of sight in parked vehicles and be aware of your surroundings in parking areas.
During summer peak periods, the terminal can become very congested with vehicles. Follow staff direction in staging lanes, as queues can extend well onto the highway approach. Pedestrian and cyclist routes through the vehicle lanes exist but require attention; follow posted signage carefully.
Weather on the Strait of Georgia can change quickly. On outdoor ferry decks, wind and spray are common; dress accordingly and supervise children near railings.
