We are so excited to welcome you to our wedding on beautiful Denman Island! Below you'll find information on how to reach our special corner of British Columbia, with some extra tips for our international guests.
Find some key points here
For our guests travelling from the UK, your journey will typically involve flying into Vancouver International Airport (YVR).
International flights: Book your flight to Vancouver International Airport (YVR). Major airlines offer direct and connecting flights from various UK airports.
Important note for UK travellers: Before travelling to Canada by air, most foreign nationals (including UK citizens) need an Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA). Apply online ahead of the trip!
Once you arrive in Vancouver, you have a couple of options to make your way to Denman:
Step 1: Journey from Vancouver -> Vancouver Island
Option 1: By Sea 🛥️
BC Ferries service to Vancouver Island:
Tsawwassen Ferry Terminal to Nanaimo (Duke Point): This route is generally recommended if you are driving directly to Denman Island from Vancouver, as it brings you closer to the southern part of Vancouver Island. The crossing takes approximately 2 hours.
Horseshoe Bay Ferry Terminal to Nanaimo (Departure Bay): This route is located north of Vancouver and is a good option if you are coming from Whistler or North Vancouver. The crossing takes approximately 1 hour and 40 minutes.
Booking ferries: For vehicle travel, especially during peak season (which July often is!), we strongly recommend reserving your ferry crossing in advance via the BC Ferries website (www.bcferries.com). Foot passengers generally do not need reservations.
Option 2: By Air ✈️
Comox Valley Airport (YQQ): The Nearest Option
The quickest way to get to Vancouver Island is to take a short connecting flight from Vancouver International (YVR) to Comox Valley Airport (YQQ). Flights are frequent and take approximately 30-40 minutes.
Float Plane from Downtown Vancouver: Scenic Option
If you're wanting a unique experience, consider a scenic float plane journey from Downtown Vancouver's Harbour Flight Centre directly to Comox. Prepare yourself for breathtaking views - but may be less convenient if you have a lot of luggage!
Step 2: Vancouver Island -> Denman Island
Once on Vancouver Island, make your way to Buckley Bay. This is located just south of Comox (approx. 30 min drive) and approximately a 1-hour drive north of Nanaimo (if you arrived at Duke Point or Departure Bay).
From Buckley Bay, Denman Island is reached via a short 10-15 minute ferry ride. This ferry is operated by BC Ferries and runs frequently throughout the day. No reservations are taken for this specific ferry route – it operates on a first-come, first-served basis.
There are lots of rental car options available in both Vancouver and Comox. We would recommend coordinating in groups to book cars. Please reach out to us if you need a hand finding a group to car share with!
On the wedding day, we will be sorting out a shuttle bus to transport you between your accommodation on the island and the wedding.