From Comox you reach Powell River on a direct BC Ferries sailing, with no need to go through Campbell River. The Comox terminal is at Little River and the Powell River terminal is at Westview. The crossing takes about 1 hour 20 minutes and there are around 4 round trips a day.
The sailing from Little River to Westview
BC Ferries lists the route as 17 nautical miles. With only a few sailings a day, the timing of your trip depends on the schedule more than on anything else, so look at the BC Ferries sailing schedule for your date first and plan the rest around it. Times vary by season.
Ticket sales and loading end 5 minutes before the scheduled sailing for both vehicles and foot passengers. BC Ferries asks vehicles to be at the terminal at least 30 minutes ahead so staff can process the lineup. Check the current rules for reservations on the BC Ferries site, since requirements on some routes have changed in recent years.
Getting to the Little River terminal
Little River is on the coast north of Comox. By car it is a short drive from the Comox Valley. Without a car, a taxi is the practical choice, because the terminal is outside town and bus links are limited. The Comox taxi page lists local companies, and the taxi fare estimator gives a rough fare.
If you are coming up island from Nanaimo or Parksville, allow time for the drive and arrive before the check in cutoff. Missing the boat can mean a long wait for the next sailing.
After you land in Powell River
Westview is on the Sunshine Coast side. Plan onward travel in advance, including how you will reach your accommodation, and check local transit and taxi options for Powell River before you arrive. From there, the highway runs along the coast, but the Sunshine Coast is divided by water, and reaching Vancouver involves another ferry crossing.