Seaplane – arrival and departure in Nanaimo

Report by Silvan G.

Getting to Nanaimo is most common by ferry. However, there is also the option to fly. Nanaimo has two sea airports and one on the main land. The seaplanes offer an affordable and exiting option. Seaplanes are aircrafts with floats or skis instead of wheels, designed to land and take off from water. And not just any water. In Nanaimo they actually land directly in the sea. What might seem impossible due to waves is actually less scary as a large bay protects the sea from getting rough at this point. This allows for smooth take offs and landings. So…doesn’t that sound like an incredible and unique experience?

Starting and landing on water

I personally would recommend anybody to try it out, simply because starting and landing on water in a tiny 8 to 14 person airplane is worth it. Additionally, it only takes 20 minutes to get from downtown Nanaimo to downtown Vancouver. This is so much faster than taking the ferry and the public bus (approx. 3 – 4h). Generally speaking, the ferry is always cheaper. However, if you choose to take the plain you should definitely show your student card and book a last minute flight. Your best chance to get the cheapest flight, which is around $50 is by booking last minute on the day that you wish to travel. I remember just walking into their offices at the waterfront and booking just five minutes before the flight was about to board. Later I realized that this is quite common and that many flights are usually not fully booked. This allows for great deals and spontaneous trips to and away from Nanaimo, BC.

It is almost like a rollercoaster

Once on board you are asked to place earplugs in your ears. Soon you know why as the small propeller machines are very noisy. Then you take off. If the wind blows heavily you will surely have a bumpy and exciting flight. It is almost like being on a rollercoaster. And then there is the breathtaking scenery from above. The plane is never really high and stays at maybe 200 – 400 meters above the water. On a clear day you get to enjoy the mountains, the islands, maybe some sea life and the thrilling skyline of Vancouver. And on a cloudy day, you might be able to touch the clouds as they are so low.

There is also the option to fly from the airport in Vancouver straight to Nanaimo. As you will probably have a lot of heavy luggage I would not recommend this route as you will have to pay extra for the size and weight.
Enjoy the flight!