Getting to Port Alberni

Maps & Directions

Port Alberni is on the central west coast of Vancouver Island, British Columbia, Canada. The majority of visitors to Vancouver Island arrive by car using BC Ferries, one of the largest ferry systems in the world. It’s also easy to fly into Victoria International Airport, or Nanaimo Airport. Port Alberni is also within a few hours of Vancouver and Seattle.

By Car

From Southern Vancouver Island: Victoria (about 2 ½ Hours), Sidney, Duncan, Nanaimo.

• Take theTransCanada Highway 1 north out of Victoria, over the Malahat, and continue through Duncan, Ladysmith, and Nanaimo.
• Highway 1 North turns into Highway 19, which you take until just past Parskville.
• At Parksville, follow the signs indicating Highway 4, West, to Port Alberni.
• Highway 4 takes you directly across the island to the Alberni Valley.

From Vancouver(about 4 Hours)

• Take BC Ferries from Horseshoe Bay Ferry Terminal in West Vancouver, to Nanaimo.
• When you drive off the ferry, just follow the signs to Route #19 North, driving right through the town of Parksville.
• At Parksville, follow the signs indicating Highway 4, West, to Port Alberni.
• Highway 4 takes you directly across the island, to the Alberni Valley.
• Alternatively, you can also take the 2-hour BC Ferries sailing from Tsawwassen (Vancouver) to Nanaimo’s Duke Point Terminal. Again, Stay on the #19 Island Highway heading north, then take the #4 West.

From Northern Vancouver Island: Campbell River, Comox, Courtenay, Sayward

• Drive south along Highway 19.
• Just before you reach Parksville, follow the signs indicating Highway 4 West, to Port Alberni.
• Highway 4 takes you directly across the island to the Alberni Valley.

By Ferry

It’s easy and convenient to take your car from the U.S. (Washington State) or Mainland B.C. (BC Ferries from Vancouver) to Vancouver Island. Whichever route you choose, you’re sure to enjoy the ride – this is truly one of the most beautiful ocean passages in the world.