Posted: Thursday, July 30, 2026
Busy weekend expected
BC Day long weekend is the busiest weekend of the year for ferry travel on the coast. Our major routes between the Lower Mainland and Vancouver Island are expected to be at or near capacity for vehicles during peak times.
Be prepared for sailing waits if a booking has not been made in advance of travel. Depending on when you arrive, there may be limited or no space available for drive-up vehicles. Check Current Conditions before leaving for the terminal for the latest sailing and capacity information, and check Service Notices for operational updates.
If your plans are flexible, consider taking transit and travel as a foot passenger. Walk-on bookings are available on our major routes at no additional cost and are recommended to help secure your preferred sailing. BC Day long weekend travel tips can be found here.
Nanaimo (Nanaimo Harbour)
Nanaimo Harbour terminal is located in downtown Nanaimo on the east coast of Vancouver Island. Sailings departing from Nanaimo Harbour terminal provide service to Gabriola Island.
Boarding is based on order of arrival at the terminal. Check-in and ticket sales close three minutes prior to the scheduled sailing for foot passengers and vehicles.
Nanaimo Harbour Tidal Restrictions
The following tidal restrictions are in effect to prevent vehicles from scraping or getting caught on the loading ramps.
Private vehicles
Avoid travel on sailings where the tide* is below 1.5m (5ft) or above 3.7m (12ft)
Includes:
- RVs- significant overhang or low hitches
- Receiver Mount Bicycle Racks
- Low/Long Utility Trailers
- Low/Long Horse Trailers
- Large Under Mount Hitches
Commercial vehicles
Long loads: avoid travel on sailings where the tide* is below 1.5 m (5ft) or above 3.7 m (12ft)
Low-bed or low-overhang: avoid travel on sailings if the tide* is below 2.1 m (7ft) or above 3.4 m (11ft)
*For tide information see: https://www.waterlevels.gc.ca/en/stations/7917
Details
160 Front Street,
Nanaimo, V9S 5R1
Transit options
If you lost an item while travelling with us, call:
- 1-888 BC FERRY (1-888-223-3779)
Washroom
Waiting room
Bike rack
Shopping nearby
Gas station nearby
Limited pay parking nearby.