By Car

The ferry to Alert Bay resides at Port McNeill, a five hour drive north of Victoria and a three hour drive north of Nanaimo.

Drive north on the Island Highway (Highway 19) from Victoria or Nanaimo, passing Parksville, Courtenay, Campbell River and Sayward. Turn right at the sign to Port McNeill and head down the hill, following the signs to the ferry. The ferry ride to Cormorant Island, home to Alert Bay, is 35 minutes. Once you arrive at the Alert Bay Ferry Terminal, turn right and proceed for 2 kilometers. Alert Bay Lodge is on the left, overlooking Johnstone Strait. Our address is 549 Fir Street.

The Ferry Schedule

The Tri-Island Ferry runs between Port McNeill, Alert Bay and Sointula. Operating hours are from 8:40 AM to 9:50 PM, seven days a week. Departure times as follows:

Port McNeill                       Alert Bay
8:45 AM                               6:45 AM
11:30 AM                             9:40 AM
2:10 PM                              12:20 PM
5:00 PM                               3:15 PM
7:30 PM                              5:45 PM
9:25 PM                               8:20 PM

Peak season is from late June to mid-September. Based on peak and low seasons, foot passenger prices are $6.80 and $6.55, respectively, plus a fuel surcharge of .90. Vehicle fees are $17.25 and $14.90 plus a fuel surcharge of $2.40. Children under 5 years ride for free. Please note that these prices are based on return passage.

The terminal in Port McNeill can be reached by telephone at 250-974-4533. For a B.C. Ferries schedule go to the B.C. Ferries Web site and their toll-free number is 1-888-223-3779.

By Bus
Scheduled buses depart daily from all points on Vancouver Island to Port McNeill. Contact Gray Line at 1.800.318.0818 or call the depot in Port McNeill at 250-956-3556. Individuals departing Vancouver for Alert Bay should contact Greyhound Canada at 1.800.661-8747.

By Air
Scheduled flights depart daily from Vancouver to Port Hardy. A limousine service is available from Port Hardy to Port McNeill where a connection can be made to the ferry to Alert Bay. Pacific Coastal Airlines, Kenmore Air Seaplanes and NW Seaplanes all have service to the area.

Local Airstrip
A 1,000-metre paved runway is available on Cormorant Island. See the Air Facilities page on AlertBay.com for details.

Taxi
The 40-K Taxi Service in Alert Bay has a van and can meet you at the airport or the ferry. Call 250-974-5525 for fees.

Please contact us if you need more information regarding our accommodation in Alert Bay. Request a reservation .