Duke Point Tsawwassen ferry

Duke Point Guide

Duke Point Ferry Port

Protruding from the south-eastern shore of Nanaimo, one of the largest cities on Vancouver Island in the British Colombia region of Canada, is the Duke Point peninsula. Since being bought by a development company in the 1980’s, this thin stretch of land has become the site of a major industrial park and ferry port, from which passengers can traverse the busy Strait of Georgia waterway. Originally built with the intention of easing traffic at the ferry terminal of Departure Bay on the opposite side of the city, the port of Duke Point is a large and modern facility specifically designed to make checking in and out as smooth as possible. Amenities here consist of a large car-park, a comfortable indoor departure lounge and a small café selling hot and cold snacks. Though the surrounding area is largely dedicated to industrial pursuits, the Duke Point Highway flanks a long belt of woodland that occasionally opens up to reveal beautiful, sweeping views across the still waters of Nanaimo Harbour. Due to Duke Point’s location in the outskirts of the city, the port is more suited to those travelling by car or taxi than those making the trip on foot, particularly as there is no direct bus service either to or from the city. The Duke Point Highway feeds directly into the extensive Trans-Canada Highway that stretches from Nanaimo all the way to the British Columbia capital of Victoria in the far south.

Tsawwassen Guide

What is there to do in Tsawwassen?

Against the exponential growth of the technological world, Tsawwassen is like travelling back to simpler times; a bird sanctuary is the most famous attraction, the houses display an authentically Canadian heritage and the main pastimes for locals and visitors are traversing the hillside on two wheels or embarking on a hike up one of the challenging walking trails. For a more leisurely stroll, Centennial Beach affords a picturesque view of the expanding horizon, as well as picnic facilities and opportunities for a friendly game of beach volleyball. Make sure you head there when the weather is desirable – the surrounding water can create a frosty chill on the cooler days. Hiking and mountain biking offer adventure for the adrenaline junkies, but for those who prefer to explore on water, windsurfing has become part of the coastline’s make-up; locals will inform you of the best times to set sail on the beautiful Boundary Bay. After a tiring day in the great outdoors, try out one of the fine restaurants, typically serving seafood as the speciality dish.

How do you get around Tsawwassen?

The town is very small and can easily be covered on bike or on foot.