Discover the Mill Bay Ferry: Your Scenic Shortcut from Brentwood Bay to Mill Bay

Описание: Discover the Mill Bay Ferry: Your Scenic Shortcut from Brentwood Bay to Vancouver Island's Hidden Gems! ByTroysDeals.com | Uploaded December 10, 2025
Nestled on the stunning Saanich Peninsula, the Mill Bay Ferry from Brentwood Bay is BC Ferries' best-kept secret for seamless Vancouver Island travel.
If you're plotting your next adventure—whether it's a day trip to Mill Bay, exploring the Cowichan Valley wineries, or dodging the longer Swartz Bay ferry queues—this 25-minute crossing over the sparkling Saanich Inlet is your ticket to efficiency and epic views.
In this video, we dive deep into everything you need to know: BC Ferries schedule, fares, pro tips, and why this underrated route is a must for Saanich Peninsula explorers, families, commuters, and road trippers alike.

Picture this: You board the cozy MV Mill Bay vessel at the Brentwood Bay Terminal (just a stone's throw from the famous Butchart Gardens), engines hum to life, and suddenly you're gliding across turquoise waters flanked by lush forests and snow-capped peaks.
At only 3 nautical miles, it's the shortest BC Ferries route, but don't let the brevity fool you—the panoramic vistas of seals sunbathing on rocky outcrops, eagles soaring overhead, and distant ferries dotting the horizon make it feel like a mini-cruise. Arriving at Mill Bay Terminal, you're steps from quaint shops, artisan bakeries, and trails leading to freshwater lakes—pure West Coast magic without the hassle.
Unpacking the Mill Bay Ferry Schedule: Plan Your Crossing Like a ProNo reservations needed on this non-bookable gem—it's first-come, first-served, so arrive early during peak summer weekends or holiday rushes to snag your spot. BC Ferries runs about 9 round trips daily year-round, with sailings ramping up in high season (June to September).

Here's the typical daily lineup (always double-check bcferries.com for real-time updates, as weather or mechanicals can tweak things):
Pro tip: Weekday mornings are your golden window for stress-free boarding—beat the Victoria commuters and score deck space for those Insta-worthy selfies.

No parking at Mill Bay Terminal, but Brentwood Bay has ample spots (paid, $2/hour). Bikes? Free and welcome—rack up those coastal miles post-crossing.
Insider Tips for Your Mill Bay Ferry Journey
Timing Hacks: Monitor live cams on bcferries.com to gauge queues—Fridays can be chaotic with weekend warriors heading to the Gulf Islands.
What to Pack: Layers for the breezy deck, binoculars for wildlife spotting (orcas occasionally photobomb!), and snacks from Brentwood Bay's farm stands.
Accessibility: Wheelchair-friendly vessel with ramps; notify crew in advance for assistance.
Eco Angle: This route cuts drive time vs. the highway loop, slashing emissions—green travel at its finest for British Columbia ferry enthusiasts.
Extend the Trip: Dock at Mill Bay and pedal the Cowichan Valley Trail, sip local craft brews, or detour to Duncan for First Nations art.

Whether you're a local zipping between Greater Victoria and the Malahat, or a tourist chasing Butchart Gardens blooms followed by valley vibes, the Brentwood Bay Mill Bay Ferry delivers convenience wrapped in postcard perfection. It's more than transport—it's a portal to Vancouver Island's soul.Have you sailed this route?

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