Bus friendly camping on Vancouver Island, BC? Ferry experience?

[Garymci5]

Been looking around on the net, but thought if anyone had a recommendation would like to hear what you have to say.

Also what your experience was on the ferries. It's spendy I know, but beats swimming!

Cheers

[busshawg]

think it's alright as long as you plan on staying on the island for awhile, like you said it is spendy. Be sure to check out Tofino and Ucluelet as well as the attractions between the 2 communities.  There are also a few bus nuts on the island.

Grant

[John316]

Gary,

We were just up there in February. The BC ferries, that we rode on, weren't a big deal at all. I have heard people talk about how tight they are, to fit on, etc, etc. It was easy. It was actually more space then pulling through your typical toll booth. No biggie.

Otherwise, try to be out on deck, and enjoy the ride.

FWIW

God bless,

John

[bobofthenorth]

We haven't had the bus over to the island yet but we likely will this fall.  I was told to make sure to disconnect the towed before boarding.  If you don't then the overheight surcharge will apply to the bus plus the towed. 

[lostagain]

I just had the hockey team's bus over to Victoria 6 weeks ago. Quite easy. Look at bcferries.com for info.

JC

[Timkar]

Hi Gary ...Just moved off of the Island after 33 years. When you want to travel an Island is not the place to be (ferry fares and lineups)
Lots to see and do...here are a few facts
Length from North to South: 460 kilometres (286 miles) - almost the length of Ireland.
Width from East to West: 50 - 80 kilometres (31 - 50 miles).
Area: 31 284 square kilometres (12,076 square miles).
Length of coastline: 3 440 kilometres (2,136 miles).
This is the largest island on the North American west coast.

If you end up camping near Nanaimo go to Living Forest RV  http://www.campingbc.com/ . We spent many week-ends there.
Ask for a site with water views.
Have a great time .
Tim

[Garymci5]

Thanks for all the tips everyone. I had seen that website before, so it's nice to also see it recommended.

[MCI Courier]

Hi Gary,

I live in Victoria, no problem on the ferry. My wife and I just got back from the mainland with the bus. There is no overheight charge anymore, strictly length. My bus is 33'  and with my wife and I, I think it was about $134.00 one way. Living Forest is a great place.

Pete

[usbusin]

We were camped at Deep Bay Fishing Resort, Deep Bay, BC, Space #1C when "9/11" occurred. 

Our campsite was right at the water's edge.  I got up early and put the coffee on, looked out and saw an absolutely beautiful sunrise.  I went outside and took several pictures, not knowing that at the same time planes were crashing into the Twin Towers.  How incongruous.

I will never forget.

[prevost82]

I've be over to the Van Island many times 40' bus + 15' towed is around 180 to 190. Easy to get on and off, they put you on the bottom floor with the semi's and tour bus.