The drive from YVR Airport to Horseshoe Bay Ferry Terminal takes about 45 minutes and covers 35 km. At normal demand a standard rideshare costs about $61, and most trips land between $54 and $70.
How the rideshare price is worked out
Our figure comes from average rates, not from Uber itself. We start with a base fare of $2.50, add $1.15 for each kilometre and $0.35 for each minute, apply a demand multiplier, then add a $2 booking fee. For this trip the distance charge is about $40 and the time charge about $16, which is how the total reaches $61.
Demand moves the number quickly. When the area is busy (about 1.2 times the usual rate) expect around $72. At very busy times (1.5 times) the price is about $90, and at peak demand (2 times) it can reach $119. The Uber app shows the real upfront price before you confirm, so treat ours as a guide for budgeting.
If you need more room or a nicer car, the typical prices are $75 for Comfort, $87 for XL (up to 6 seats) and $134 for Premier. XL is the one to look at when several people are sharing bags.
Taxi fare and planning the trip
What a meter would show
We found published tariffs for Whalley Taxi and Royal City Taxi. Both use a flag fee of $3.75 and $2.18 per km, which works out to a meter estimate of about $80 for 35 km. That figure leaves out waiting time and any extras, so the final fare can be higher.
On this trip the taxi estimate sits above the typical rideshare price, though it falls close to what you would pay when rideshare demand is busy. Comparing both before you commit is worth a minute.
Before you book
A ferry terminal is a place where people watch the clock, so give yourself a margin. A 45 minute drive can stretch, and a late arrival is more costly than an early one. Work backwards from the time you need to be at the terminal and add extra time on top.
Check the pickup point in the app once you have your bags, because airports often have a set area for rideshare. Share the exact destination with the driver so the pin is not guessed. If you are travelling with large suitcases, ask whether they will fit, or choose XL from the start.
Anyone who needs a wheelchair accessible vehicle should book ahead. Vancouver Taxi (604-871-1111) and Yellow Cab Vancouver (604-681-1111) both list wheelchair accessible service for this area.