Flying With Harbour Air: A Relaxed, Scenic Way to Travel Between Vancouver & Victoria

Check-in

Our journey began at Vancouver Harbour, within walking distance of the convention center. The check-in process was effortless for both of us. I showed my BC driver’s license, and my mom showed her Pennsylvania driver’s license. We both had backup IDs on hand, just in case, but they weren’t needed.

Checking in baggage check was smooth. For the airfare we purchased, there was a 15-pound per-passenger luggage limit, which worked perfectly for our 3-day trip. My backpack with my laptop was tagged and my mom’s backpack was checked with no issues. The boarding pass doubles as a receipt, and everything felt relaxed, a stark contrast to the chaos of a traditional airport.

The whole check-in process took less than 5 minutes.

Check-in sign at the Vancouver Harbour

Vancouver Harbour Flight Centre

The Vancouver terminal itself felt like a waterfront lounge compared to a typical airport waiting area. There were plenty of seats, tables with outlets, and a small café with snacks, sandwiches, and coffee for purchase. Everything was clean and calm, including the restrooms.

We spent about 20 minutes watching seaplanes taxi in and out of Coal Harbour while the Hullo ferry came and went in the distance! It was fascinating to see how efficiently the seaplanes operated, and the whole process felt unhurried.

If you’re someone who enjoys a sense of place when you travel, Harbour Air nails it. You never forget that you’re in coastal British Columbia, surrounded by mountains, ocean, and a very local rhythm of travel.

Departing from Vancouver Harbour. During Alaska Cruising season you will see cruise ships in port.

Boarding & flight

When it was time to board, we were guided down to the dock and onto the aircraft. The boarding process took just a few minutes. There were about a dozen seats on the seaplane, so boarding was quick.

Takeoff was an incredible experience! Be aware that the noise levels are loud and bringing noise-canceling headphones is recommended. Once airborne, we appreciated the views of the islands and mountains. There’s something magical about flying low enough to recognize landmarks yet high enough to appreciate the scope of the coastline.

As we descended into Victoria’s Inner Harbour, I could see the Parliament Buildings and the Fairmont Empress ahead of us. Landing on the water felt smooth and surprisingly quiet, the kind of serene arrival that sets the tone for a relaxed trip.

Arrival in Victoria

Within minutes, we had disembarked and collected our checked bags while walking to the terminal. The Victoria Harbour Airport terminal is steps away from downtown and a short walk to the Empress, which made the entire travel experience seamless. That convenience alone makes Harbour Air worth it.

Approaching Victoria

Why I recommend Harbour Air

For travelers who enjoy slow travel and value convenience when traveling within BC, Harbour Air strikes the perfect balance. There’s no long drive, no ferry wait, and no rush through a busy airport terminal. It’s also more scenic, comfortable, and often time-saving.

Beyond the novelty of taking off and landing on water, the journey itself captures the beauty and spirit of BC. Whether you’re connecting between Vancouver, Victoria, Nanaimo, or other regional destinations, it’s a transportation experience that also doubles as sightseeing!

Flying Harbour Air is more than just getting from point A to point B—it’s part of the adventure, and one I’d happily repeat.

Plan your Harbour Air experience

Fora Advisors like me can assist with booking Harbour Air flights and experiences across British Columbia, making it easy to connect your stays between Vancouver, Victoria, Whistler, and beyond. I can also coordinate your itinerary around flight times, arrange ground transfers, and pair it with VIP hotel perks while staying at properties like the Fairmont Empress or the Fairmont Waterfront in Downtown Vancouver. If you’re considering bringing your small pet, I can help you plan that with Harbour Air, too.

For more inspiration and insider recommendations, visit our Vancouver page.