So, you’re standing on the edge of the Olympic Peninsula, looking across that grey-blue stretch of the Strait of Juan de Fuca. Maybe you’re grabbing a coffee at a shop in downtown Port Angeles. You see it: a massive, stout ship with a black circle on a red flag chugging toward the docks. That’s the M.V. Coho. Honestly, in an era of high-speed jets and sleek catamarans, this 1959-built vessel shouldn't feel this cool. But it does. Taking the ferry from Port Angeles WA to Victoria BC is kinda like a rite of passage for PNW locals and tourists alike.
It’s not just a boat. It’s basically a floating time capsule that also happens to be the most reliable international link between the U.S. and Canada in this corner of the world.
If you've never done the crossing, you've probably got questions. Is it expensive? Do I need a passport? Can I bring my dog? (Yes, and your dog will probably have a better time than you). Let’s get into the nitty-gritty of how this works, because while it's straightforward, there are a few quirks that can trip you up if you aren't paying attention.
The Ship That Refuses to Age: What to Expect Onboard
The M.V. Coho is the workhorse of the Black Ball Ferry Line. It’s been running since the Eisenhower administration, which sounds like it should be a rusty bucket, but the crew keeps it in pristine shape. Seriously, you could eat off the engine room floor. It’s 341 feet of mid-century maritime engineering.
When you board, you’ve got options. Most people head straight for the mid-ship lounge. It has those classic upholstered booths where you can spread out your maps or snacks. If the weather is even remotely decent—and sometimes when it’s definitely not—the solarium on the top deck is the place to be. It’s covered, so you won’t get soaked if it’s drizzling, but you still get that crisp salt air.
- The Food: Don't expect a Michelin-star meal, but the cafeteria is solid. Get the soft-serve ice cream. It’s a thing. People swear by it.
- The Views: Keep your eyes peeled for orcas. They don't show up on every trip, but when they do, the whole ship basically tilts as everyone runs to one side with their phones out.
- Pet Policy: This is a big one. Black Ball is incredibly pet-friendly. Your dog can actually hang out with you on the passenger deck as long as they're leashed and well-behaved. They even have a "pet-friendly" area in the solarium.
The crossing takes about 90 minutes. It’s just enough time to feel like you’ve actually traveled somewhere without getting bored.
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Logistics: Fares, Times, and That Dreaded Customs Line
Let's talk money and timing. For 2026, a standard adult ticket is $23.00. If you’re bringing a car (which is under 18 feet), expect to pay $78.00, and that includes the driver. Not bad for an international trip.
One thing people get wrong: they think they can just roll up five minutes before departure. Nope. Because you’re crossing an international border, the ferry from Port Angeles WA to Victoria BC requires some lead time. If you have a vehicle reservation, you need to be there at least 60 minutes early in Port Angeles. If you’re leaving from Victoria, they want you there 90 minutes early.
Why the long wait?
It’s the customs process. When you leave Victoria for the U.S., you actually go through U.S. Customs before you even get on the boat. It’s a pre-clearance setup. This is great because when you land in Port Angeles, you just drive off and you’re done. But it means you can't be late. If you miss that 60 or 90-minute cutoff, they might give your spot to a standby vehicle. And nobody wants to be the person watching the ferry pull away while standing in a parking lot.
Documents You Actually Need
Don't be the person who tries to use a library card. You need a valid Passport, a U.S. Passport Card, or an Enhanced Driver's License (EDL). Note that a regular "REAL ID" is not enough for international travel across the border. If you're a Canadian or U.S. citizen under 16, a birth certificate usually works.
Why Port Angeles? (The Strategic Choice)
You could take the Clipper from Seattle, sure. But that’s passenger-only and pricey. You could drive up to Tsawwassen and take BC Ferries, but then you’re dealing with Vancouver traffic.
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Port Angeles is the sweet spot.
You get to drive through the Olympic National Park, maybe hike Hurricane Ridge in the morning, and then be in a British-inspired capital city by tea time. The drive along Highway 101 is stunning. It’s rugged. It’s green. It feels like the edge of the world.
Also, Port Angeles is just... easier. The terminal is right in the middle of the little downtown area. You can park your car in one of the long-term lots nearby for a few bucks a day if you're just going over as a foot passenger.
Arriving in Victoria: The Inner Harbour Magic
There is no better way to enter Victoria than by ship. The Coho pulls right into the Inner Harbour. You’ve got the Parliament Buildings on your left—all domes and stone—and the Fairmont Empress Hotel right in front of you.
It’s walkable. Sorta.
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If you’re a foot passenger, you’re basically in the heart of the city the second you walk off the ramp. You can hit up the Royal BC Museum, which is literally a five-minute walk from the dock. Or just wander up Government Street for some shopping.
Quick Tips for Victoria:
- Fisherman’s Wharf: It’s a 10-minute walk from the ferry. It’s a bunch of colorful floating houses and food stalls. Get the fish and chips at Barb's.
- The Butchart Gardens: This is further out. If you didn't bring a car, you'll need to catch a shuttle or a city bus. It’s worth the 30-minute trek, especially if the roses are in bloom.
- Tea Time: If you want the full Empress Tea experience, book way in advance. If you want something a bit more low-key (and cheaper), try Murchie’s.
Surprising Details Most People Miss
The Coho isn't just a ferry; it's a piece of history. It was named after the Coho salmon, and it was the most expensive privately funded ferry in North America when it was built.
There’s also a "Duty-Free" shop on board. Since you're technically in international waters for a bit, you can grab tax-free booze or perfume. Just remember you still have to declare it when you land.
And here’s a tip for the winter travelers: the ship usually goes out of service for a couple of weeks every January or February for "dry dock" maintenance. In 2026, that's scheduled from mid-January to mid-February. Always check the Black Ball website before you plan a winter getaway, or you’ll be staring at an empty dock.
Actionable Steps for Your Trip
Ready to go? Don't just wing it.
- Book the reservation: Seriously. Especially in the summer. It costs a few extra dollars, but it guarantees you won't be stuck waiting for the next sailing.
- Check the tide/weather: The Strait of Juan de Fuca can get "sporty." If you’re prone to seasickness, grab some Dramamine or those wristbands before you board.
- Download the ArriveCAN app (if required): Rules for entry into Canada can shift. Even if it's not strictly mandatory right now, having your info ready makes the customs agent's life easier.
- Arrive early: Aim for 90 minutes. Use the extra time to grab a sandwich in Port Angeles or take photos of the Olympic Mountains from the pier.
The ferry from Port Angeles WA to Victoria BC remains one of those rare travel experiences that feels authentic. It hasn't been "Disney-fied." It’s just a great ship, a beautiful view, and a bridge between two countries that feel a world apart yet just 20 miles across the water.
To make your trip as smooth as possible, ensure you have your physical passport (not a photo of it) and your vehicle registration handy before you hit the ticket booth. If you're traveling with a dog, keep their rabies vaccination certificate in the glove box just in case the border agent asks. Once you're on the deck with a coffee in hand and the mountains disappearing behind you, you'll realize why people have been making this exact trip since 1959.