Alert Bay » The Traveling

There are many ways to get to Alert Bay, by car it is a five hour drive north of Victoria on Highway 19 and a three hour drive north of Nanaimo following the scenic Island Highway. The Route passes through Parkesville, Courtney and Campbell River to Port McNeil, where a 40 minute ferry departs six times a day to Cormorant Island, home of Alert Bay.

To get to the ferry, turn right at the sign to Port McNeill and head down the hill, following the signs. Once you arrive at the Alert Bay Ferry Terminal, turn right and proceed for 2 kilometers.

Visitors can walk around the island, it is only 8 miles around along the beach. Be aware the tide comes right up to the tree line, so make sure it is out when you set out. There are also hiking and cycling trails throughout the whole island, but you will have to either bring your own bike or rent one in Nanaimo. Pick up a trail guide at the visitors information.

BC Ferries (250.949.6722) sails the Queen of the North up the Inside Passage to Prince Rupert on spectacular, 15 hour day-light trips from mid May through October. Adult: 102.00 Car: $241.00 reservations and information: www.bcferries.com

Vancouver Island Coach Lines (250.318.0801) run buses up island from Victoria and Namaimo from $94. North Island Transportation (250.949.6300) runs a ferry shuttle to and from the terminal for $5.25

By Air, scheduled flights depart daily from Vancouver. There are three main airlines servicing Alert Bay: Pacific Coastal 1.800.663.2872 offers air service to and from Vancouver. Kenmore Air Seaplanes 1.800.543.9595 and NW Seaplanes 1.800.960.0086 offer service from Seattle.