Downtown Nanaimo to Parksville is 35 km, and the drive takes about 40 minutes. A standard rideshare for that trip costs about $59 at normal demand, with a likely range of $52 to $68.
Where the $59 comes from
We worked the price out from average rideshare rates: a $2.50 base fare, $1.15 for each km, $0.35 for each minute and a $2 booking fee. For 35 km and 40 minutes that adds up to roughly $59. Our figures are our own sums from typical rates, so they will not match Uber to the dollar. Before you confirm, the app shows the upfront price it will actually charge.
Demand changes the number a lot on a trip this long. At a busy time, when fares run about 1.2 times normal, expect around $70. When it is very busy (1.5 times) the price is closer to $87, and at peak demand (double) it can reach $116.
If you need more room or a nicer car, the estimates are about $73 for Comfort, $84 for XL with up to 6 seats and $130 for Premier.
Meter readings from the published taxi tariffs
Oceanside Taxi publishes a tariff with a $4.40 flag fee and $2.50 per km. Over 35 km the meter would come to about $92. Yellow Cab charges a $3.90 flag fee and $2.72 per km, which works out to about $99. Neither figure includes waiting time or extras, so a real fare can finish higher.
On paper the rideshare estimate is lower for this distance. A taxi does let you phone and ask about the fare before you get in. You can reach Oceanside Taxi on 250-954-8294, Yellow Cab on 250-751-1111 or Electric Taxi on 250-240-3445.
Planning a 35 km ride
A trip of this length is worth a few minutes of preparation, because a surprise at the end costs more than it would on a short hop.
- Open the app a little early and compare the upfront price with the busy and peak figures above.
- Send the exact pickup address and the exact drop-off address so the driver has no guesswork.
- Tell the driver about luggage or extra passengers, and choose XL if the group is large.
- Book a wheelchair accessible vehicle ahead by phone rather than hoping one is free.
In smaller centres fewer drivers may be online at any moment, so check that the app shows cars nearby before you count on it. If you are travelling at a peak hour, allow extra time for the pickup.