We're going to be in Vancouver in mid-July and then spend 4 days in Tofino. I'm a little confused about which ferry to take to Nainamo. Our current plan is to take the ferry to Nanaimo, rent a car there, and drive to Tofino. Which ferry should we take -- Tsawwassen or Horseshoe Bay? This is complicated, of course, by the transit strike. Is either dock easier to get to via cab (that is, cheaper)? What about taking the Greyhound or other bus? <BR> <BR>We're trying to keep things simple and hoped to be able to walk right on to the ferry and not have to deal with auto lines. Any advice would be appreciated. <BR>

If you are going to the ferry straight from the airport, you can take a cab or a bus directly to the Tswassen ferry terminal and walk on the ferry. Once at Duke Point ferry terminal(Nanaimo) take a cab into Nanaimo, there are no buses at that end. If you are staying in Vancouver, take the Pacific Coach Lines Bus from Main St. & Terminal , this bus will take you on the ferry and to downtown Nanaimo. Hope this helps.

Hi, i would hire a car in vancouver, catch the ferry in north vancouver (horseshoe bay) this is the closest point to Nainaimo then you can drive straight to tofino. its not that expensive to take your car on the ferry - the smaller the car the cheaper it is. Will be easier and cheaper than catching buses and taxis. Tsawwassen is a long way south of vancouver. If you go from Tsawwassen you will arrive near Victoria and still have to drive about 120 km (i think) to Nanaimo. we were there during the strike and had no problem getting around.

Georgie <BR>You are misinformed about the ferries leaving from Tsawwassen. One ferry leaves Tsawwassen for Duke Point (just outside Nanaimo), the other ferry takes you to Swartz Bay (just outside Victoria). The cost is $31.50 for car (33.50 on weekends) and $9.50 for adults - of course depending on the time & day of arrival at the ferry you might have a wait.

I just was on Vanocuver Island last week and also made the drive to Tofino. Take the Tsawwassen ferry to Duke Point and then drive to Tofino. Along the drive to Tofino, make sure to stop at Coombs Market to see the rooftop goats (also be sure to try the Island Farms ice cream - yum!). Also stop at Cathedral Grove to see the amazing 800 year old trees. <BR> <BR>Have fun!

I would also opt for renting a car at the airport rather than taxis. A half day car rental and the extra cost of a car on the ferry would be more than offset by taxi fares and luggage hassles. The drive from the airport to Tsawassen avoids driving though Vancouver and so should be less stressful, but it is a half hour drive the wrong way. Your choice.