We get it. City life can be a lot. The noise, the traffic, the “why is everyone in such a rush?” energy. Sometimes you just need a break, but you don’t exactly have a week to disappear. Enter Hullo Ferries: your fast-pass ticket from downtown Vancouver to Nanaimo’s waterfront in just 70 minutes. No fuss, no endless lineups, no “are we there yet?” vibes. Just a sleek and speedy boat, smooth rides, and the kind of island escape that starts the second you step onboard. Consider this your cue to swap city chaos for salty air, ocean views, and a little coastal city that’s anything but ordinary.

A boat that takes you from Downtown to Downtown?

Yeah, you read that right. There is a fast ferry that not only offers an up-close view of the Salish Sea, but also gets you from the heart of Vancouver to the heart of Nanaimo in 70 minutes. And get this, you can even bring your bike. A simple, car-free weekend enjoying the peace, quiet, and island vibes in Nanaimo. 

What’s Onboard (and Why You’ll Love It)

So, what makes Hullo Ferries more than just a boat ride? For starters, these aren’t your average ferries; they’re sleek, high-speed catamarans built to zoom you across the Salish Sea at up to 38 knots. That’s fast enough to make city traffic look like it’s standing still. Inside, you’ve got two decks of reservable seating (no elbow battles required) with options that range from comfy Comfort Class (USB chargers and all) to Premium and Business Class, where you’ll score perks like priority boarding, extra-spacious seating, and even complimentary snacks and drinks. Oh, and did we mention free Wi-Fi? Post, scroll, brag, or fake-work your way to Nanaimo.

Practical details? They’ve got those covered too. Think six private, non-gendered restrooms (yes, including an accessible one with a change table), plenty of space for luggage and gear, and even the option to bring along your bike, golf clubs, skis, or surfboard. Honestly. Your adventures don’t stop at the dock with Hullo. Vancouver’s terminal is minutes from SkyTrain, bus routes, and rideshares, while Nanaimo’s terminal offers 350+ parking stalls and a free shuttle that whisks you right into downtown. Translation: no stress, no lineups, no “did I miss my sailing?” panic. Just easy, breezy, downtown-to-downtown travel the way it should be.

Need help planning your Nanaimo Day?

So, have we convinced you to sneak away for the weekend yet? Or maybe you’re still wondering what exactly you’d do once your feet hit the Nanaimo side. Don’t worry, we’ve got you. Recommendations? That’s kind of our love language.

Morning

Obviously, your adventure kicks off with a ride on Hullo! Once you step off the boat, hop on their complimentary shuttle and let it whisk you straight into the heart of downtown Nanaimo. Zero stress, zero car needed, maximum island vibes.

If you’re staying overnight, drop your bags at the hotel and lighten your load. Just here for the day? Time to get exploring!

Start your morning on Commercial Street, where local charm meets fresh city energy. This stretch is packed with artisan shops, cafés, and indie businesses that make Nanaimo shine. Treat yourself to a fluffy, over-the-top donut at MilkJam, pick up a one-of-a-kind handmade mug from Nanaimo Ceramic Arts Studio, or grab a perfectly brewed coffee to-go from Brix & Mortar. Honestly, you can’t go wrong wandering here. It’s eclectic, it’s vibrant, and thanks to a recent redesign, it’s more pedestrian-friendly and accessible than ever.

Afternoon

Worked up an appetite? Time to head straight for the waterfront, because in Nanaimo, the views come free with your meal. If you’re visiting in the summer, snag a spot at Penny’s Palapa or grab a basket at Trollers Fish & Chips for the freshest bites you’ll ever eat on a dock. Ocean breeze, seagulls overhead, and fish tacos in hand? That’s a vibe.

Rolling through in spring, fall, or winter? Don’t sweat it, The Lighthouse Bistro & Pub has you covered year-round with cozy indoor seating, hearty plates, and views that stretch across to Saysutshun and Gabriola Island. Rain or shine, you’ll get your fill of flavour and scenery.

Once you’re happily fed, keep the good times going with a waterfront wander. Stroll through Maffeo Sutton Park or dip your toes in at Swy-A-Lana Lagoon, both local favourites for soaking in the atmosphere. More of a culture buff? Swing by the Nanaimo Art Gallery or the Nanaimo Museum to immerse yourself in the stories, creativity, and history that make this city such a gem. Basically, whether you’re chasing food, fresh air, or a little brain fuel, your afternoon in Nanaimo won’t disappoint.

Evening

Cap off your Nanaimo adventure with a little entertainment before you hop the ferry home, or tuck yourself into that hotel bed like the champion explorer you are. If you’re in the mood for the big stage, snag tickets at The Port Theatre, where touring acts, concerts, and performances light up the night with serious star power. Prefer to keep things closer to home? The Nanaimo Theatre Group serves up community theatre that’s equal parts heart and talent. You’ll laugh, you’ll cry, and you’ll leave with that cozy, small-town glow.

Either way, it’s the perfect ending: full stomachs, happy hearts, maybe a glass of wine (or two), and just enough yawns to remind you it’s been a day well spent. Downtown-to-downtown in 70 minutes has never felt so worth it.