Brentwood Bay Ferry Terminal

Described as the Island's most Beautiful Shortcut, this is a very convenient and particularly scenic route across the Saanich Inlet for those travelling between the Swartz Bay ferry terminal and central or northern Vancouver Island destinations.

This route provides a delightful alternative to travelling by land, particularly if you wish to avoid the Malahat. You'll spend less time driving and more time enjoying the fresh sea air and remarkable views. If you're heading north after visiting the Butchart Gardens, or heading south after travelling through the Cowichan Valley, consider treating yourself to the Brentwood Bay-Mill Bay ferry.

This route also holds the distinction of being the oldest ferry link on the coast of British Columbia (Mill Bay Ferry - The Oldest BC Route). M.V. Mill Bay was also the smallest car-carrying ferry in the fleet until it was retired from service on 2 May 2011, replaced by the MV Klitsa.

Vehicles and Passengers

Sailing Time: 25 minutes (3 nautical miles)

Sailings: Minimum 9 daily round trip sailings

Car Capacity: 16

Passenger and Crew Capacity: 138

Load limit not to exceed 8,000 kg G.V.W. and length not to exceed 40 feet (12 meters).

Mill Bay Ferry Terminal

Check current schedules, fares and additional information directly on the BC Ferries website. Service on this route is not available on December 25 and January 1.

Fares are paid when you arrive at the terminal. The ship's crew collects the fares - only cash or travellers' cheques are accepted. Ticket sales end three minutes before the scheduled sailing time for vehicles and five minutes before for walk-on passengers. Tickets can also be purchased in advance at Thrifty Foods stores in Mill Bay and Saanichton.

Directions to Brentwood Bay - Mill Bay Terminal:
If you're travelling south through the Cowichan Valley, watch for signs just north of Mill Bay directing you to the terminal. If you're headed up island from Swartz Bay or any other part of the Saanich Peninsula, you'll find highway signs directing you to the Brentwood Bay terminal.

Visit: Brentwood Bay, Mill Bay

Guest Writers

Mill Bay Ferry - The Oldest BC Route by Ron Armstrong