seattle to vancouver cruise shuttle

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Convenient cross-border cruise shuttles service for cruise ship passengers, to and from pier terminals.

THERE AND BACK, QUICK AND EASY! Cruise Shuttles.

Plan your ocean vacation with our convenient cruise shuttles service. Schedule your pick-up between Cruise Ship Terminals and between Seattle Airport, Bellingham Airport, and Vancouver Airport. View full route map here .

PIER 66 (SEATTLE) TO VANCOUVER

Cruise shuttle service to Downtown Vancouver or to River Rock Casino Hotel (Vancouver International Airport transfer point.)

• Service on ship days only.
• 24 hour advance reservation required for pick-up and drop-off.

Pier 66: 2225 Alaskan Way South, Terminal 30: 2431 East Marginal Way South, Seattle, WA

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PIER 91 (SEATTLE) TO VANCOUVER

Shuttle service to Downtown Vancouver or to River Rock Casino Hotel (Vancouver International Airport transfer point.)

Pier 91: 2225 2001 West Garfield Street, Seattle, WA 98199

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The Easiest Ways to Get From Seattle to Vancouver (And Vice Versa)

Looking for the best way to get to Vancouver from Seattle… or from Seattle to Vancouver? There are any number of reasons you’d want to travel between the two cities.

Taking an Alaskan cruise? Many of these trips depart from ports in Seattle, heading up to stops in Canada and Alaska. However, there are also some cruises that depart Vancouver.

Or if you aren’t taking a cruise and simply want to visit Vancouver (or Seattle), there are an amazing amount of things for tourists to do in both cities.

Meanwhile, anecdotally many flights into the area seem to be cheaper if you fly into Seattle. For instance, a recent search for a mid-summer flight found a cost of $510 from Austin to Vancouver. But that price was only $375 flying from Seattle to Vancouver. In other words, you can save a lot of money flying into one airport and then arranging your transportation to the other city.

So what’s the best way to get there? We have a list of your options below…

Train Between Seattle & Vancouver (Amtrak)

The Amtrak Cascades runs twice daily between Eugene, Oregon and Vancouver, with a number of stops along the way. Between Seattle and Vancouver, however, there are only about six stops, which last only 2-3 minutes each.

In total, the trip takes a bit over four hours. The good news is that the price is affordable, and the ride is comfortable. Tickets run around $45 one way. Aboard the train you have a large seat with plenty of legroom. There is also a dining car with enormous overhead windows offering stunning views of the area as you pass.

The train departs Seattle’s King Street Station and arrive at Vancouver’s Pacific Central Station. Heading to Vancouver, you don’t have to stop for a border inspection. Once you arrive at the train station, you’ll go through an immigration checkpoint and arrive in the middle of the city.

Busses Between Seattle & Vancouver

As you would expect between two major cities only a few hours from each other, you can easily take a bus between the two cities. In fact, there are at least four services that will take you from Seattle to Vancouver and back.

Depending on the bus line, they will pick up and drop off at different points in town. QuickShuttle actually picks up at the Seattle-Tacoma Airport if you want to head straight to Canada. Others usually pick up at bus stations or the train stations in the area.

As in many parts of the country, newer upstarts like BoltBus have entered the bus transportation market. They often offer newer busses, cheaper fares, and wi-fi service on the trip.

In total, you can expect the bus trip to take about 4-5 hours between Seattle and Vancouver. Here are a list of options for you to take:

BoltBus A “premium express bus line” that runs between the two cities, offering free wi-fi, reclining seats, and extra legroom on its coaches. Tickets run about $25 for a one-way trip.

Quick Shuttle Offering 4-5 trips each day, Quick Shuttle notably picks up from the Seattle-Tacoma airport. During the summer it also stops at the Canada Place Pier, making it convenient for cruise passengers. Rates run $40-$60 per person and the trip takes about four hours.

Greyhound Greyhound offers express service with fewer stops between Seattle and Vancouver. We found three trips daily, all departing in the afternoon and evening. If you want a morning trip, you should look at another bus line. Rates run as little at $17 each way.

Amtrak In addition to the train service, Amtrak also offers busses that will take you between the two cities. In fact, while there are only two trains daily, there are four bus departures each day. The trip will cost around $40 each way.

Driving Between Seattle & Vancouver

If you are flying into the area, yes you can drive between Seattle and Vancouver. That said, if you are a cruise passenger, it’s not ideal as you have park your car while on your trip. As well, many other people simply prefer to leave the driving to someone else as that’s easier, especially if you aren’t familiar with driving in the area.

But the biggest issue with driving is the border checkpoint between the United States and Canada. While the drive is short (usually about three hours), if you hit traffic at the border, it can add an hour or more to your drive time. Taking a train or a bus, you don’t have to worry about this wildcard during your trip.

Have more questions about getting between these two cities? Let us know in the comments below.

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I’m a US citizen. I’ll be in Seattle this weekend and considering driving up to Vancouver for to explore the borders for a few hours. Do I need a passport to enter?

We just read the rules surrounding car travel to Canada. The easiest and simplest way is to simply have a passport or passport card. Sounds like you can travel back and forth if you have the correct “enhanced” driver’s license and a birth certificate. But just get a passport and be done with it!

Unless you plan on going places where the passport book with pages for visa stamps is necessary, you will find the passport card much easier to use and cheaper. This is my preferred method of going back and forth between San Diego and Tijuana.

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Vancouver to Seattle: 7 Best Ways to Get There

If you’re inquiring about how to get from Vancouver to Seattle, there are seven ways available.

In this guide, I’ll elaborate on each of them and share some travel hacks (I’ve been making the trip since I was 17) to help you discover the best way for your budget and time constraints.

Let’s explore the optimal ways to get to Seattle from Vancouver, organized by convenience.

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How to get from vancouver to seattle.

So, how do you get from Vancouver to Seattle?

The distance between Vancouver and Seattle is 192 kilometres (or 119 miles).

In other words, the Emerald City can be reached in about 2.5 hours , depending on traffic at the border.

For this reason, visitors to the Pacific Northwest region often pair the two cities together on the same itinerary, a choice which we highly recommend .

Let’s take a look at the best ways to get to Seattle from Vancouver:

Driving from Vancouver to Seattle

With a driving distance of only  225 kilometres (140 miles) , the simplest method to get between Vancouver and Seattle is simply to take your own vehicle.

Depending on traffic and the wait at the border, the trip should only take you about  3-3.5 hours .

Driving provides the highest degree of flexibility, comfort and convenience . You can leave whenever you want and are free to stop anywhere you want during the trip.

Furthermore, the cost of car rental compares favourably with a return trip on the train or bus, particularly for groups and families.

Looking for an Emerald City itinerary? Check out our guide on things to do when visiting Seattle from Vancouver .

Vancouver to Seattle Car Rental

From a logistics standpoint, renting a vehicle from Vancouver International Airport (YVR) makes the most sense, though it’s a breeze from downtown as well.

For starters, all of the major car rental companies are located on the ground floor of the YVR parkade. This provides for a high degree of competition and the best rates.

Couple that with the accessibility offered by YVR’s transportation infrastructure and close proximity to HWY-99, and it’s a no-brainer.

Looking to rent a car? Rentalcars.com is the most reliable online booking platform and has a low price guarantee .

You can search for your car with your travel dates using the button below:

How to Drive from Vancouver to Seattle

For custom directions, simply insert your departure and destination points into Google Maps.

Vancouver to Seattle Floatplane

The floatplane from Vancouver to Seattle is the most convenient, most scenic, most unforgettable way to travel between the two cities.

I’m ranking this the #2 Vancouver to Seattle transport option because when you factor in time, taxis to the airport, and luggage, there isn’t much difference in price between this and regular flights.

Except seaplanes take just just 55 minutes – about the time you’ll spend going through security at YVR.

They also fly you right into the seaplane terminal in downtown Seattle (Seattle’s airport meanwhile is 40 minutes away and not well connected).

Beyond all this, you get breathtaking views of the Pacific Coast all the way down, as well as an aerial tour of the two cities. This is a tourist attraction in itself.

For more information on benefits and prices, click the orange button below:

Vancouver to Seattle Train

Avoid the lengthy border delays and the notorious traffic of Seattle’s I-5 as you enjoy spectacular coastal views aboard the Amtrak Cascades.

Convenient, affordable and efficient, the Vancouver to Seattle train operates twice daily, connecting Vancouver’s Pacific Central Station with King Street Station in Downtown Seattle.

One trip daily continues all the way to Portland, Oregon.

You can expect to arrive in Seattle in 4.5 hours , with an extra 3 hours required to go on to Portland.

Here are a few pros:

• Free Wifi 
• Wide reclining seats
• Personal power outlets at your feet
• Bistro car (Car 2/3) offering regional cuisine, craft beer, wine and Seattle’s Best Coffee
• 2 bag allowance for a total of 50 lbs

Vancouver to Seattle Train Price

Fares fluctuate according to demand, but generally, the earlier you book, the more you’ll save.

Adult rates can vary widely, but for a one-way fare from Pacific Central, you can expect to pay:

• Seattle (King Station) – $33.00 – $108.00 CAD
• Portland (Union Station) – $67.00 – $215.00 CAD

*Children 2-12 travel for half price while infants travel free

**Seniors 65+ receive a 10% discount

***Discounts of 25% are offered for booking 14 days in advance

Vancouver to Seattle Train Schedule

Service from Vancouver to Seattle is offered twice daily , with departures in the morning and the evening.

Only the morning trip continues onto Portland.

There are an additional five stops between Vancouver and Seattle, with 6 more falling between Seattle and Portland.

For a complete schedule and list of stops, visit the Vancouver to Seattle train time finder .

Vancouver to Seattle Bus

The Vancouver to Seattle bus provides coach service to Seattle from Vancouver’s Pacific Central Station and select downtown hotels.

While the price does vary considerably by carrier and time, the coach is generally the cheapest way to get from Vancouver to Seattle. Furthermore, in most cases, it is even faster than the train .

The breadth of competition provided by the four different providers means that there is a wide array of departure times available, making it the most flexible transport option available, short of renting a vehicle.

You can compare prices using our fare finder below:

Which one should I pick?

All companies provide a comparable level of service, with free Wi-Fi, device chargers, and air conditioning.

Since there is little differentiation based on service, we recommend that most travellers should go with the cheapest and fastest option, which is usually Boltbus.

However,  Quickshuttle can be a better choice for certain travellers, particularly:

• Cruise ship passengers
• Those staying in downtown Vancouver hotels who are willing to pay a premium for the convenience of a complimentary shuttle to the Holiday Inn departure point.

Either way – you can compare the prices with Busbud using the button below:

Vancouver to Seattle Flights

Due to the relatively close proximity between the two cities, many people are surprised to learn about the wide availability of flights between Vancouver and Seattle.

There are numerous carriers offering service between Vancouver International (YVR) and Seatac (SEA), including:

• Alaska Airlines
• Air New Zealand

But are they viable options for tourists travelling between the two cities?  Consider the following:

The main reason for the wide range of flight options is the sheer number of Pacific Northwest residents who are connecting to other destinations in the United States, Canada and Asia.

Flights Between Vancouver and Seattle are often bundled onto flights to other destinations  at  a minimal cost and are rarely purchased as a stand-alone option.

Consequently, the overwhelming majority of passengers travelling between YVR and SEA are business travellers or local residents connecting to more distant locations.

You can expect to pay upwards of  $217  for a one-way flight to Seattle from YVR. It’s up to you whether you’re willing to pay this much for a 50-minute flight that fails to reach reach cruising altitude.

To take a closer look at the flight options on offer, visit  Skyscanner.net .

If you do decide to book a flight to Seattle, be cognizant of the following:

• It’ll likely take 30 minutes  to get from Downtown Vancouver to YVR.
• You’re expected to arrive 2 hours  prior to departure in order to clear US customs.
• It’ll take an additional 40 minutes  to get from SeaTac Airport to Downtown Seattle via the Linkrail.

Due to these factors, all of your time savings will have gone up in smoke.

Couple this with the stark realization that you’re likely to pay up to  four times the cost of other transportation options and we can’t confidently recommend this option for anyone other than business travelers.

But before you completely discount flying as an option, let’s take a look at a newly launched service that has a prototypically Pacific North West feel.

Vancouver to Seattle Ferry (Via Victoria)

Not in a hurry? Opt for a leisurely journey by taking the ferry from either Tsawwassen or Horseshoe Bay across the Strait of Georgia to Victoria , and then catch a second ferry to make your way down to Seattle.

This option is perfect for those who appreciate a more relaxed pace – the ferry from Vancouver to Victoria takes approximately an hour and a half, while the second leg from Victoria to Seattle lasts around 2 hours and 45 minutes .

Keep in mind, though, that this doesn’t include the time it takes to reach the ferry terminal from Vancouver (both Tsawwassen and Horseshoe Bay require a bit of driving).

Additionally, you’ll need to factor in the time to arrive at the ferry terminal well ahead of the departure time. Adding a layer of complexity, the Victoria-Seattle ferry departs from a different terminal in downtown Victoria .

Admittedly, it’s not the quickest route, but it offers breathtaking scenery. If you’re contemplating a side trip to spend a few days in Victoria , this might just be the ideal way to savour the beauty of the West Coast .

If you’ve already reached your destination and find yourself considering a return trip from Seattle to Victoria ferry after a few days, this route is still a great option.

Vancouver to Seattle Ferry Price

Ticket prices vary based on demand and season, but as a rule of thumb, the earlier you make your reservation, the greater your potential savings will be.

Adult rates can vary widely, but for a one-way fare from Clipper Vacations, you can expect to pay:

• (Victoria) Economy Class – $104
• (Victoria) Vista Class – $119
• (Victoria) Comfort Class – $134 

* All prices are in USD and include tax . Victoria fares are subject to a fuel surcharge. A valid Passport, Passport Card, or Enhanced Driver’s License (EDL) is required when crossing an international border.

** Advance Fare must be bought at least 2 days before the travel date and is non-refundable .

*** Standard Fare is fully refundable if cancellations are made 2 or more days before the travel date, but it becomes non-refundable within 48 hours of the travel date.

Vancouver to Seattle Ferry Schedule

The schedule adjusts to the seasons each month. It’s like choosing the best time for a smooth ride – easy and convenient for your travel plans .

For a complete schedule list, visit the Clipper Vacations website.

Vancouver to Seattle Cruise Shuttle

The Vancouver to Seattle Cruise Shuttle provides a convenient and comfortable transportation option between these two iconic cities.

This shuttle service offers a seamless journey, eliminating the need for self-driving and potential border-crossing hassles .

You can also do it vice versa from Seattle Airport to Vancouver Cruise Terminal .

Passengers can enjoy the scenic route in a stress-free environment while leaving the navigation to the shuttle service.

Vancouver to Seattle Cruise Shuttle Price

The shuttle operates on two routes, one departing from Pier 91 in Seattle and the other from Pier 66.

Adult rates can vary widely, but for a one-way fare going to Seattle Tacoma Airport through Ridebooker , you can expect to pay:

• ( Waterfront Station )- $114.19 CAD

*You can provide special instructions for the pick-up point if you will book with Ridebooker.

Vancouver to Seattle Cruise Shuttle Schedule

The timetable changes every month to match the seasons.

To check availability of schedule, visit Ridebooker website.

Now that you’ve mastered how to get to Seattle from Vancouver, let’s break down Washington’s best city.

Popularly known as the Emerald City, Seattle currently has 744,955 residents and a metropolitan area of 3.94 million people. This makes it the largest city in the Pacific Northwest region and the 15th largest in the United States.

Buoyed by a burgeoning tech sector, a vibrant arts and culture scene and stunning natural beauty, this flourishing Puget Sound municipality is the fastest-growing city in America and a popular tourist attraction.

Attractions

• Pike Place Market
• The Space Needle
• Pioneer Square
• The Seattle Great Wheel
• The Museum of Popular Culture

Seattle CityPASS

If you plan on going from Vancouver to Seattle, we highly recommend purchasing the Seattle CityPASS , which provides you with prepaid access to 5 of the city’s best attractions and up to 50% off  admission to several others.

For more info on this tremendous deal, visit the Seattle CityPASS page .

To help you further, check out this guide to a perfect day trip to Vancouver from Seattle .

How to Travel from Vancouver to Seattle FAQ

How far is it from vancouver to seattle.

The distance from Vancouver to Seattle is 192 kilometres (or 119 miles).

How long is it from Vancouver to Seattle?

The trip from Vancouver to Seattle typically takes about 2.5 to 3 hours, covering a distance of approximately 140 miles (225 kilometres), depending on traffic and border wait times.

How to get from Vancouver to Seattle?

To get from Vancouver to Seattle, you can use various transportation options, including train, bus, plane, and floatplane, in addition to driving.

How do you cross from Vancouver into Washington State?

To cross from Vancouver into Washington State, take the Interstate 5 (I-5) southbound, crossing the international border at the Peace Arch Border Crossing, approximately 25 miles south of Vancouver.

Do you need a passport from Vancouver to Seattle?

For air travel, a passport is required when flying from Vancouver to Seattle. However, for land travel, such as driving or taking a train or bus, a passport may not be required, but a valid ID is recommended.

Can you take a ferry from Vancouver to Seattle?

No direct ferry exists between Vancouver and Seattle. However, you can take a ferry from nearby Victoria or the San Juan Islands to Seattle.

Can I drive to Seattle from Vancouver?

Yes, you can drive from Vancouver to Seattle. The journey typically takes around 2.5 to 3 hours, covering a distance of approximately 140 miles (225 kilometres).

Can I rent a car from Vancouver to Seattle?

Yes, you can rent a car in Vancouver for a trip to Seattle – both one-way and return. That said, check with rental agencies for full cross-border policies.

Is it worth driving from Vancouver to Seattle?

Yes, it is worth driving from Vancouver to Seattle because of the scenic journey, flexibility, and potential stops along the way.

Consider the time, preferences, and convenience of driving versus other transportation options.

Still Wondering How to Get to Seattle from Vancouver?

If you have questions, whether about how to get to Seattle from Vancouver or any other topic, feel free to reach out in the comments or on the Vancouver Planner Facebook page.

I’ll make every effort to get back to you ASAP.

Enjoy your trip from Vancouver to Seattle! 🙂

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The 5 best ways to get from Seattle to Vancouver

It's a beautiful trip from Seattle to Vancouver, regardless of how you get there

Crossing the border from Seattle to Vancouver is such a breeze, it’s very easy to forget you’re actually crossing a border in the first place. That’s why so many people in the US hop on a flight to Seattle to get to it: it’s easy, budget-friendly, and to be honest, pretty enjoyable too.

By car, the journey is about 2.5 hours. And if you’re not a driver (and don’t want to pay for gas), you might want to opt for a coach instead – it’s four hours, but it starts at $5. Yep, you heard us right. In fact, there’s plenty of ways to get from one to the other, and they all offer up scenic views as an extra treat. Here are the best ways to travel from Seattle to Vancouver right now. 

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Best ways to get from Seattle to Vancouver

1.  Train

The  Amtrak Cascades train follows a scenic track from Seattle’s historic Pioneer Square district, up the craggy coast, to downtown Vancouver’s Pacific Central Station. With free wifi, power outlets at each seat, and far more legroom than your average airline, the journey is not just comfortable but convenient. Settle in on the train’s left side to get the best views of the wild coastline. The 110-mile journey takes four hours and heads north three to four times a day. 

2.  Plane

If you have no time to waste, the best way to travel from Seattle to Vancouver is by air. Several major airlines, including United, Delta and Alaska, fly non-stop from Seattle’s Sea-Tac Airport to Vancouver International daily in about an hour. Public transit— Link Light Rail in Washington and  Canada Line in B.C.—will get you from town to your flight and vice versa in 30-40 minutes for under six bucks.

Kenmore Air and Harbour Air offer private charters, allowing you to skip the airport, but both have temporarily paused flights between the two countries.

3.  Bus

Besides driving, buses offer the most flexibility for travel between Seattle and Vancouver, especially if you’re on a budget. Four companies make the journey up Interstate 5 across the Canadian border, BoltBus , Quick Shuttle , Greyhound and Amtrak Thruway . All but Amtrak offer free onboard wifi and power outlets. The cheapest by far is BoltBus, some of whose seven daily trips north start at just a dollar. But all four companies take you from downtown to downtown in 3.25-4 hours several times a day for less than $50.

4.  Car

In a car, it’s a quick shot up I-5 from Seattle to the Canadian border and on to Vancouver. Outside of rush hours, the trip typically takes 3-3.5 hours but although customs and Border Control is efficiently run, back-ups can slow your journey down. If you’ve got a schedule to keep, stay up-to-date on wait times on the Washington State Department of Traffic’s website .

5.  Ferry

It is possible to travel by ferry from Seattle to Vancouver if you’ve got time to explore Victoria and Vancouver Island. Hop the Victoria Clipper at Pier 69 in downtown Seattle, for a trip across the sparkling Puget Sound to the B.C. capital, Victoria, that will take you just under three hours. Ferries run once a day except from May to September, when they depart twice daily. 

From Victoria, you’ll need a second ferry headed for Vancouver or, more accurately, for Tsawwassen-Swartz Bay . The ride, which leaves several times a day, only takes about 90-minutes, but once you dock a t the ferry terminal, it’s another hour on public transit to downtown Vancouver. If you’re traveling with your own car, the drive downtown is about the same length, depending on traffic. 

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Vancouver Port Transportation

Last updated on February 4th, 2024 at 11:30 am

From Vancouver International Airport to hotels or the cruise port, taxis, ride-sharing services, and private shuttles are readily available. Some hotels offer shuttle services for their guests, while others can be accessed by arranging a pick-up or using local transportation options. Additionally, public transportation, such as SkyTrain or buses, can be utilized for convenient transfers.

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How to Travel From Seattle to Vancouver by Train, Bus, Car, and Plane

For a full tour of the Pacific Northwest, Seattle and Vancouver are obligatory stops. Only 143 miles apart, both places are cultural melting pots, natural paradises, and two of the hippest cities in their respective region. Located in the heart of the largest temperate rainforest in the world, it's easy to use both cities as jumping-off points for exploring the wooded vastness that surrounds them or the Cascade Mountains. They also boast a hyper-concentration of fashionable bars, cool eateries, and the best coffee shops in all of North America (as anyone from the Pacific Northwest will tell you).

The simplest way to travel from Seattle to Vancouver is by train, which may be one of the most scenic train rides in the world. It takes about four hours on the Amtrak Cascades, but you'll enjoy every minute as the picturesque landscapes pass you by. The bus ride isn't quite as impressive, but it takes just as long as the train and can cost half the price. Direct flights to Vancouver get you there in an hour, but after adding in all of the hassles of international air travel you don't save much time. If you have access to a car, you can stop and explore along the way.

How to Get From Seattle to Vancouver

What is the cheapest way to get from seattle to vancouver.

Several bus companies make the trip from Seattle to Vancouver, such as Greyhound and Bolt Bus , with prices starting as low as $18 for a one-way ticket. The bus is cheaper than the train and takes almost the same amount of time, so it's a great option for travelers who want to save some money. The bus may not be as comfortable as the train or offer the same amenities, such as a restaurant car and power outlets in the seat, but you can't beat the price.

At the border, you'll have to disembark and go through immigration, which can be a minor headache. However, it still brings you from city center to city center, just as the train does. Most buses depart from Seattle at the King Street Station and arrive in Vancouver at Pacific Central Station.

What Is the Fastest Way to Get From Seattle to Vancouver?

With a flight time of only an hour, taking a plane from Seattle Airport to Vancouver Airport is the fastest way to travel between cities. Alaska Airlines, Delta, and Air Canada each offer several daily direct flights along this popular route, so it's not too difficult finding affordable tickets if you book far enough in advance.

However, don't forget to factor in all of the time it takes to get to and from the airport, check-in, pass through security, and wait at your gate. Plus, being an international flight, you'll also have to go through border control and customs as well. Taking into account all of the hassles that come with flying, it really isn't much faster than the train or bus. Not to mention you'll miss out on all the gorgeous scenery below if you're in the air.

How Long Does It Take to Drive?

Whether you're using your own car or a rental car, driving is the most flexible way to travel between the two cities. The drive takes about three hours depending on traffic and the wait at the border crossing, but you have the flexibility to leave whenever you want and make pitstops along the way . The most direct route is to take U.S. Interstate 5 all the way up to the border, which becomes Highway 99 once you cross into Canada.

You will have to go through border control , which is usually a relatively painless and quick process. Weekday mornings and evenings are the busiest times at the border, but you should check border wait times regardless to make sure there aren't any significant delays.

How Long Is the Train Ride?

People in Seattle love traveling to Vancouver by train via Amtrak Cascades . It's a scenic journey with lots of lovely coastal views and you can relax, read, or use the Wi-Fi. The seats are comfortable (and each comes with its own power outlet), and the border crossing is relatively painless.

Amtrak Cascades operates trains daily between Seattle King Street Station and Vancouver Pacific Central Station on a trip that takes four hours total. Both train stations are centrally located, so the four hours include all travel time from city center directly to city center.

There are two major downsides to the train. First, the Amtrak Cascades train only travels between Seattle and Vancouver once or twice a day (depending on the season), so there's not much flexibility in terms of departure times. Also, though the train generally takes four hours (an hour longer than driving), it can be delayed.

Be aware that the Amtrak Cascades website has tickets for both the Amtrak bus and the train, so double-check before completing your purchase to make sure you're reserving seats on the train.

When Is the Best Time to Travel to Vancouver?

Both Seattle and Vancouver are major cities with lots of commuters and traffic is especially bad on weekday mornings and evenings, which are also the times when the border crossing is most likely to experience delays. Another especially busy time is during long weekends or school holidays in the winter, when Seattle residents drive up to the mountains around Vancouver—such as Whistler —for ski trips.

Many Vancouverites would tell you the best time to visit the city is in spring or fall when the weather is still warm and the summer crowds have dissipated. However, the mild summer weather and a full calendar of outdoor events make June through August a very tempting time to visit.

What's the Most Scenic Route to Vancouver?

If you're looking for easy traveling with breathtaking views, the train is the best option for you. The Seattle–Vancouver leg of the Amtrak Cascade line is touted as one of the most scenic train rides offered by Amtrak, passing through dense forests, along unspoiled coastlines, and next to the snow-capped Cascade Mountains. The entire line actually connects Vancouver all the way down to Eugene, Oregon, passing through Seattle and Portland along the way. If you're looking for a full Pacific Northwest adventure, you could ride the train the entire length of the track for the ultimate scenery of the region.

Do I Need a Visa to Travel to Vancouver?

American citizens do not need a visa to enter Canada if visiting for tourism, just a valid passport. However, non-citizen U.S. residents may need to apply for a visa or electronic travel authorization, depending on their nationality. As long as you have all of the correct documents , most tourists are quickly waved through immigration.

Another option that is ideal for frequent border crossers is to apply for the NEXUS program , which is like a special U.S.-Canadian version of Global Entry. A NEXUS card is good for crossing the border by land, air, or sea, and gives cardholders access to preferential lines and quicker immigration checks so you can zip through border control without long waits.

Can I Use Public Transportation to Travel From the Airport?

The easiest way to travel from Vancouver Airport to the city center is via the Canada Line of the Vancouver Metro. The train leaves from the airport terminal and goes directly to the Vancouver City Center, with trains leaving every few minutes and the entire journey taking about 25 minutes.

Going by car takes about the same amount of time, with taxis and car-sharing services available outside of the airport. Vancouver taxis charge a flat rate depending on which area you're going to, with most parts of downtown Vancouver costing 32 Canadian dollars (roughly $25).

What Is There to Do in Vancouver?

Vancouver is one of Canada's most scenic cities and many of its most popular attractions involve its natural beauty. Stanley Park is an enormous urban park that includes an aquarium and the Seawall—a 19-mile path that encompasses the entire park and is one of the most-visited sites in all of British Columbia. If you want to hike outside of the park, there are trails and mountains all around Vancouver with breathtaking scenery, such as nearby Whistler Mountain.

Granville Island is just a few minutes off Vancouver's shores by ferry and attracts thousands of visitors with its hip market, tasty food stalls, and lively entertainment. If you consider yourself a foodie, Vancouver is a dream vacation. It's one of Canada's most diverse cities, so you can enjoy top-rated cuisines from all corners of the world in addition to locally caught and freshly prepared seafood.

The drive from Seattle to Vancouver takes about three hours depending on traffic and the wait at the border crossing.

Seattle is located 143 miles south of Vancouver.

A one-way ticket on the Amtrak Cascades starts at $39.

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Avg cost for a party of 2 roundtrip to and from airport, the most convenient option from sea-tac to seattle piers.

Seattle Express offers 4 convenient departures directly from baggage claim level allowing you to avoid the hassle of lugging your bags up and down the stairs or waiting for crowded elevators, crossing the skybridge while wondering if you’re going in the right direction. With Seattle Express once you have your luggage make your way to our kiosk, check in with our agent and enjoy your stress free transfer to Seattle cruise piers 66 or 91.

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We traveled from Canada to Seattle by ferry with a car for $150. After 5 ½ hours, I wished I'd just left my vehicle at home.

• I travel between Canada and the US often, and I recently took a route that used a car ferry.
• With two passengers and a car, the trip cost about $150, and it took about five and a half hours. 
• I don't necessarily think having your car adds to the trip, so I'd take a passenger boat next time. 

Nearly 400,000 people travel between Canada and the US daily, and one of the best parts of living in Victoria, British Columbia, is its relative proximity to the state of Washington.

It's common for locals to spend a weekend in Seattle to catch a sports game, see a concert, or do some cross-border shopping.

But even though the cities are pretty close, getting there can be a headache if you don't know what you're doing. Victoria, BC , is located on an island, so unless you're flying, you'll need to take a boat.

Under ideal conditions, traveling there with your car takes at least four to five hours. But when you factor in ferry times, potential delays due to weather, border wait times , traffic, and stopping for gas, it can easily become an eight-hour journey.

Recently, a friend and I took the car ferry between Victoria to Vancouver to get to Seattle. Here's how it went, and what you need to know before booking a trip.

There are several options for getting to mainland Washington from Victoria, BC.

The Victoria Clipper offers the fastest direct route between Victoria and Seattle, but it's a passenger-only ferry.

If you want to take your vehicle, you'll either need to take the Blackball "Coho" Ferry to Port Angeles, Washington, or BC Ferries to Vancouver and drive two to three hours to Seattle.

We wanted to stop at Seattle Premium Outlets in Tulalip, Washington (about an hour outside of Seattle). And since we'd be stateside, we'd have the opportunity to stop at Trader Joe's to stock up on our favorite American snacks.

Having a car would make both pit stops easier, so we decided to book tickets on BC Ferries.

Tickets vary depending on your vehicle, the number of passengers, and their ages. Vehicles under 20 feet cost 67.40 Canadian dollars, or about $49, each way. But that cost doesn't include the driver or any other passengers.

Adult fares are 19.10 CAD each way, so our total for one way on the ferry was 105.6 CAD.

If you’re traveling on a weekend, make a reservation and get there early.

Since we were taking our car, we needed to factor in the driving time to the ferry dock in Swartz Bay, located about 30 to 45 minutes outside of Victoria.

BC Ferries serves travelers from all around Vancouver Island and the lower mainland of British Columbia. Weekends are typically busy, and popular sailings can sell out.

Traffic is also busier on the weekends , so give yourself plenty of time and arrive at least 30 minutes in advance.

I recommend booking a reservation online to guarantee your spot on a specific sailing. Reservations cost an extra 20 CAD, but I think it's well worth it.

Even if you have a ferry reservation, know that there's a chance your ferry can get canceled or delayed due to weather conditions — forcing you to take the next sailing in one or two hours.

There are gorgeous views throughout the ride, which made up for the lack of Wi-Fi.

One of the things I love about taking the 90-minute boat from Victoria to Vancouver is the incredible scenery and ocean views . If the weather is decent, I recommend sitting outside.

There are picturesque islands covered in lush forests, and you may even spot a pod of whales or dolphins if you're lucky.

But if you plan on catching up on your favorite shows, download content before the ferry departs. There were no Wi-Fi options on board.

Since mobile reception is also spotty, I used the trip to catch up on work using offline apps and take in the scenery.

There’s a restaurant on the ferry, and it's actually decent.

The onboard cafeteria offers everything from coffee and desserts to local specialties, like Nanaimo bars (a classic BC layered treat) and White Spot burgers.

Surprisingly, I don't mind the ferry food, even though it tends to be pretty expensive. If you're not sure what to get, skip the prepackaged salads and get the poutine.

At about 7 to 8 CAD, it's one of the cheapest things on the menu, and it's tasty and filling.

But if you don't want to deal with lines or crowds, you should bring your own meals.

There's pretty much always a line at the cafeteria — on my last trip, I waited 30 minutes to order a burger and a Diet Coke. The dining area is also jam-packed with fellow travelers and has the vibe of a crowded mall food court at sea.

The arrival process is pretty straightforward.

The crew makes an announcement asking passengers to return to their cars 15 minutes before docking. That's when I usually sneak in a last-minute trip to the restroom before heading down to the car deck.

We spent about 10 minutes in the car waiting for the boat to dock before driving off.

We made our way to the Peace Arch Border Crossing.

The ship docks in Tsawwassen, a small town outside of Vancouver, and it's about a 40-minute drive to the Canada-US border.

This drive always gives me anxiety because you can't predict how long the wait will be.

We were lucky and only had to wait about 20 minutes on this trip. But hours-long queues at the border are common, especially if there's a special event happening in Seattle like a Taylor Swift concert or a Mariner's game.

If possible, avoid driving into Seattle during rush hour.

Traffic jams are also common on what should be a two-and-a-half-hour drive from the border crossing to Seattle, especially as you get closer to the city.

There have been previous trips where it's taken me four hours because I got stuck in a gridlock, so I always do my best to avoid getting there anywhere near rush hour.

We opted to stay overnight in Seattle.

It's technically possible to go to Seattle for the day via the car ferry, but you'd only have a few hours in the city before turning around and catching the last ferry home at 10 p.m.

I recommend booking a one-night stay at The Edgewater — an iconic Seattle hotel with a storied history of hosting legendary musicians like the Beatles, Led Zeppelin, and Pearl Jam.

My room cost 329 CAD, and we loved the incredible waterside views, the central location, and the easy car access.

I kind of wish I didn't have my car in Seattle.

Since we stayed in downtown Seattle, we were within walking distance of Pike Place Market , the Nordstrom flagship store, and buzzy dining options in Belltown.

We also spent an afternoon exploring the trendy Capitol Hill neighborhood, located a 10-minute drive from downtown. But we ended up taking an Uber because we knew it'd be easier than finding our own parking on the weekend.

The city has a public transit system that includes a light rail, a monorail, and streetcars, so it's pretty easy to get around without a car.

When I compare the time and money spent, I wish I’d left the car at home.

In addition to the roundtrip ferry fare (with corresponding fees and taxes), my friend and I spent about 82 CAD on gas, bringing our total transport costs for the weekend trip to 323 CAD, not including the hotel stay .

I've taken the Victoria Clipper passenger ferry to Seattle for past trips, and although it's more expensive (344 CAD per adult, roundtrip), I found it to be a much more relaxing experience.

Our car-ferry journey took about five and a half hours, start to finish. But on the passenger ferry, I've boarded the boat at 5 p.m. and made it to my Seattle hotel by 8:15 p.m.

As a single woman who'd rather spend her weekend exploring one of her favorite cities than sitting in traffic, the passenger ferry is my preferred mode of transportation.

With that said, the car ferry has its advantages.

If you're traveling as a family or group, it's considerably cheaper than the passenger ferry. A roundtrip for a family of four on BC Ferries costs around 231 CAD, whereas the same trip on the Victoria Clipper would be around 866 CAD.

Additionally, if you plan on doing a lot of shopping or any outdoor activities outside of Seattle, it usually makes sense to have a car.

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