What Do I Need to Know About Taking My Dog on the Ferry from Victoria?

If you live in Victoria and own a dog, you will eventually need to take the ferry. Whether it is a day trip to Vancouver, a visit to family on the mainland, or the logistics of relocating to or from the Island, the BC Ferries sailing from Swartz Bay to Tsawwassen is part of life here. We have done this crossing with Ziggy more times than we can count, and here is everything you need to know about travelling with your dog on BC Ferries.

Can I bring my dog on BC Ferries?

Yes. Dogs are allowed on all BC Ferries vessels. They travel for free, and there is no need to book a separate pet ticket. The rules are straightforward: your dog must be on a leash no longer than 1 metre (3 feet) at all times, and you are limited to 2 pets per owner. Your dog stays either in your vehicle or in the designated Pet Area on board. Pets are not permitted in passenger lounges, cafeterias, or interior walkways. The only exception is certified guide or service dogs, which have full access to all areas.

What happens during the sailing?

Once you board and park your vehicle, you have two options for your dog:

• Stay in the vehicle. You can remain in the car with your dog during the sailing. Some dogs are comfortable with this, especially if they are used to car travel. Crack a window for ventilation and bring water. The vehicle deck can get warm in summer.
• Use the designated Pet Area. Each vessel has a Pet Area with lockable kennels. You bring your own padlock to secure the kennel door. The areas have water bowls and waste bags, and they are routinely cleaned. You can stay with your dog in the Pet Area or lock them in and return to check on them periodically.

The sailing from Swartz Bay to Tsawwassen takes approximately 1 hour and 35 minutes. You return to your vehicle or Pet Area when you hear the onboard announcement that the ferry is approaching terminal. This gives you about 15 to 20 minutes to get back before disembarking.

What changed in 2024? The outdoor pet areas

In June 2024, BC Ferries added outdoor upper-deck pet areas to all four vessels that service the Tsawwassen-Swartz Bay route: the Spirit of British Columbia, the Spirit of Vancouver Island, the Coastal Celebration, and the Queen of New Westminster. Dogs on leashes and cats in carriers can now access designated areas of the upper outside passenger decks. Access is via a designated stairwell marked with paw prints on the deck. Restricted elevator entry is available for those with accessibility needs.

This is a real improvement. Before this change, dogs were essentially confined to the vehicle deck Pet Areas or your car for the entire crossing. The upper-deck areas give your dog fresh air and a view during the sailing. If your dog is calm on a leash and comfortable around other passengers, the upper deck is worth using.

What should I bring for the crossing?

The essentials for a ferry crossing with your dog are simple:

• A 1-metre leash. BC Ferries enforces this. Anything longer will get you a reminder from staff.
• A padlock. If you plan to use the Pet Area kennels, you need your own lock to secure the kennel door.
• Water and a collapsible bowl. Water bowls are available in the Pet Area, but bringing your own means your dog drinks when they need to, not when you get around to filling the provided bowl.
• Waste bags. Available in the Pet Area but always smart to have your own.
• A familiar blanket or mat. The Pet Area floors are hard. A blanket gives your dog something familiar to lie on and helps them settle in a strange environment.
• Treats or a chew. A 90-minute crossing is a long time for an anxious dog. A long-lasting chew can help them relax.

How do I prepare my dog for the crossing?

If your dog has never been on a ferry, the experience can be overwhelming. The engine noise, the movement of the vessel, the crowds at the terminal, and the confined space of the Pet Area or vehicle deck are all new. Here is what we recommend:

1. Walk your dog thoroughly before boarding. A tired dog handles new environments better than an energetic one. Give them a good 20 to 30 minute walk before you get in line at Swartz Bay.
2. Arrive early. BC Ferries lines can be long, especially in summer and on long weekends. Arriving 45 to 60 minutes before your sailing gives you time to park, walk your dog one more time, and get on board without rushing.
3. Practice car time. If your dog will stay in the vehicle during the crossing, do a few practice runs: sit in the parked car with your dog for 30 to 45 minutes, engine off, and reward calm behaviour.
4. Bring comfort items. A blanket or toy that smells like home helps your dog settle in the Pet Area or vehicle.

Swartz Bay to Tsawwassen: the route most Victoria dog owners use

Swartz Bay is about 25 minutes north of Victoria, near Sidney on the Saanich Peninsula. Tsawwassen is the mainland terminal, about 35 minutes south of Vancouver. This is the primary route for anyone living in Greater Victoria who needs to get to the mainland with their dog.

The sailing runs multiple times daily, with more frequent departures during peak times. Fares for a standard vehicle and driver range from about $60 to $75 one way, depending on the season and whether you book in advance. Reservations are strongly recommended, especially in summer. You can book at bcferries.com.

For the most current pet policies, check BC Ferries directly: bcferries.com/travel-boarding/travel-with-pets.

What if I am moving to or from Vancouver Island with my dog?

If you are relocating, the ferry crossing is just one part of the move. We have a complete guide to moving to Victoria with your dog that covers pet-friendly housing, licensing, vet setup, and neighbourhood selection. If you are leaving the Island, the same principles apply in reverse: plan the ferry, prepare your dog for the crossing, and line up your new vet and dog-friendly neighbourhood before you arrive.

The ferry is the bridge between your old life and your new one. Plan it well and the crossing is just a calm 90 minutes with your dog at your feet. Reach out to the Happy Homes Team if you are thinking about a move to or from Victoria. We help dog owners navigate the real estate side of island life every week.

For more practical guides, check out our complete relocation guide, our pet-friendly hotel guide, and our dog-friendly day trips guide for ideas on where to go once you are on the other side.

The ferry is part of Island life. With the right preparation, it is just another ride with your dog.