Before you book, open the Uber app and compare its upfront price with the $61 we estimate for the 35 km trip from Tsawwassen Ferry Terminal to Metrotown. The drive takes about 45 minutes, and the likely range at normal demand is $54 to $70.
How we get to $61
Our number is an estimate from average rates. It is not an Uber price, and the app is the only place that shows the real one.
The inputs are a $2.50 base fare, $1.15 per km, $0.35 per minute and a $2 booking fee. The base, distance and time charges are multiplied by demand, and the booking fee is added after. The regional minimum fare of $4.43 would only apply to a very short ride.
If demand doubles on the way to Metrotown
A busy period at 1.2 times normal demand lifts the estimate to about $72. At 1.5 times, which we call very busy, it is about $90. At peak, with demand at double, it reaches about $119.
If the price on your screen looks high, wait a few minutes and look again. It may settle.
Bigger vehicles are priced higher: Comfort is about $75, XL (up to 6 seats) about $87 and Premier about $134.
Taxi meter comparison
The published tariff at Whalley Taxi and Royal City Taxi is a $3.75 flag fee and $2.18 for every km. Over 35 km the meter estimate is about $80 with either company. That does not include waiting time or extras, so the final amount may be a little higher.
At normal demand the rideshare estimate is about $19 below the meter. When demand reaches double, the taxi becomes the cheaper option by roughly $39.
Meeting the driver at the terminal
A ferry terminal can have more than one place where cars stop, so read the pickup note in the app and move the pin if needed. Share the exact address of your Metrotown stop with the driver, and message if you are not sure where to meet.
Plan for the full 45 minutes and a few more if you have a fixed appointment or a shop opening to reach. Luggage is worth a mention to the driver, and XL gives you more room.
Cards are accepted by Vancouver Taxi and Yellow Cab Vancouver, which helps if you would rather not carry cash after a long journey.
If anyone in your group needs a wheelchair accessible vehicle, call ahead. MacLure’s Cabs (604-831-1111) and Yellow Cab Vancouver (604-681-1111) both list wheelchair accessible cars.