Plan on about 45 minutes for the 35 km trip from Horseshoe Bay Ferry Terminal to YVR Airport. A standard rideshare is about $61 at normal demand, and the likely range runs from $54 to $70.
How the $61 is worked out
This is our estimate from average rates, not an Uber quote. We start with a base fare of $2.50, add $1.15 for each km and $0.35 for each minute, which gives $58.50 for this trip, then add the $2 booking fee. The total rounds to $61.
When demand rises the fare rises with it. Busy (1.2 times) puts the trip near $72, very busy (1.5 times) near $90, and a peak (double) near $119. Only the Uber app can show the actual upfront price for your pickup, so look there before you decide.
Larger cars cost more. Comfort is about $75, XL (up to 6 seats) is about $87 and Premier is about $134. An airport run often means suitcases, so a group of three or four with full bags may do better in XL than in a standard car.
Taxi meter comparison
The published tariff at Whalley Taxi and Royal City Taxi is a $3.75 flag fee with $2.18 for every km. On 35 km the meter would reach about $80. That figure leaves out waiting time and extras, which are added on top. A taxi does not apply a demand multiplier, so it stays the same whether the ferry has just docked or not, while the rideshare price can move.
Practical tips for a ferry to airport trip
Flights and sailings both run to a clock, and a trip that takes 45 minutes in good conditions can take longer. Give yourself a buffer before check in instead of aiming for the last possible car.
- Open the app early and check the pickup spot it gives you.
- Send the driver your exact drop off point at the airport.
- Ask if your bags will fit, and choose XL for bulky luggage.
- If you need a wheelchair accessible vehicle, reserve it before the day.
Prices lift when many people want a car at once, so if your fare looks high, waiting a few minutes and checking again sometimes helps, though it is not guaranteed. The figures above are a way to judge whether an offer looks fair, since a price far outside the likely range of $54 to $70 at normal demand usually means the app is applying a demand multiplier, and you can then decide whether to pay it or try a taxi instead. Phoning a taxi company ahead of a flight is also reasonable if you want the car fixed in advance.