Getting Around Nanaimo
If you don't have a vehicle, getting around town is a breeze, with taxicab companies and car rentals widely available. Also close at hand is the Nanaimo transit system. Running seven days a week, bus service in Nanaimo will take you all over this beautiful city and beyond.
Nanaimo Transit Information
The Nanaimo Regional Transit System's main bus exchange is located in the Old City Quarter, within easy walking distance to shops, restaurants, and the waterfront. Buses head south as far as Cedar and Cinnabar Valley, and as far north as Qualicum Beach.
Adult passengers pay $2.25 for all stops in the region; seniors and students pay $2.00, and children under 5 ride for free. Be sure to have the exact fare on hand, as drivers do not carry change. Monthly bus passes, day passes, and sheets of tickets are all available as well, and offer reduced fares. Transfers allow you to change from one bus to the next, without having to pay again, but they are only valid for one-way travel and within a set time limit.
Buses begin running from approximately 6am, and continue until about 11:30pm, depending on the route. Frequency of travel depends on which bus you take, with some operating only once per hour, while others run every half hour during peak travel times. Bus service on holidays is quite limited, and in many cases, stopped altogether. Check the Nanaimo transit schedule for up-to-date information about fares, routes, and travel times.
Heading to other hotspots on Vancouver Island? Please see our coach line information.
Taxis
Taking a cab in Nanaimo is a convenient option when touring the city, or when you need to get to your destination on time and in comfort. Taxicab companies in Nanaimo offer clean cars, reasonable rates, and friendly drivers.
When you arrive in Nanaimo at the Departure Bay Ferry Terminal, a string of taxis are waiting to take travellers where they need to go. There are customarily plenty of cabs for everyone who needs one, which means that you don't usually need to call ahead. Of course, during peak travel times, it is a good idea to book ahead if possible. Taxicabs are also on hand at the Duke Point Ferry Terminal and the Nanaimo Airport.
There are wheelchair accessible vans available, as well as cabs that can take groups of 5 or more people. For these services, be sure to specify your needs at the time of booking.
Car Rentals
Renting a car can be an excellent way to see the sights. There are several car rental companies in Nanaimo, offering visitors a great deal of choice and independence. Most companies offer free local pick up service, which means that you can have the vehicle of your choice meet you at the ferry terminal, airport, or wherever you need it.
Daily, weekly, and weekend rates are available. Special equipment such as car seats and wheelchair accessible vehicles can be provided, allowing you to travel around Nanaimo safely, and in style.