Harbour Air Seaplanes

Imagine the opportunity to soar into the sky directly from the mirror-like surface of the water—this is exactly the experience offered by Harbour Air seaplanes. This unique airline has become an integral part of the landscape of Nanaimo. As the world's largest commercial carrier using exclusively seaplanes, Harbour Air turns an ordinary flight into a breathtaking adventure over the fjords and forests that Canada is famous for.

The Nanaimo terminal is located in a picturesque harbor where powerful de Havilland Canada aircraft gracefully maneuver among yachts and boats. The company's fleet includes legendary aircraft models like the Beaver, Otter, and Twin Otter. A key feature is its commitment to the environment: Harbour Air became North America's first completely carbon-neutral airline and is successfully testing the world's first electric commercial aircraft.

For tourists, this is not just a transport hub, but a real attraction. From here, panoramic views of the Gulf Islands, snow-capped mountain peaks, and the endless Pacific Ocean unfold. Thanks to high safety standards and an innovative approach, every flight gives passengers the feeling of being explorers, discovering the rugged and beautiful nature of British Columbia from a bird's-eye view.

To check schedules or book tours, you can use the official communication channels. The company's office is conveniently located on the waterfront, making it easy to find the terminal before your flight.

The main reason to visit the Harbour Air terminal is the opportunity to see the world from an unusual perspective. The most popular activity here is the scenic tours. During such a flight, you can observe the labyrinth of islands, secluded coves, and dense forests of Vancouver Island. The moment when the plane's floats lift off the water or gently touch the waves upon landing is guaranteed to be one of the highlights of your trip.

For those looking for a deeper immersion, adventure packages are available. These often combine the flight with other activities: for example, you can head to a remote resort for lunch, go kayaking in the wild, or visit charming coastal towns like Tofino. It's the perfect way to combine comfort with the spirit of exploration.

Even if you don't plan on flying, it's worth stopping by the terminal to watch the efficient work of the pilots and ground crew. At Harbour Air, you can often see demonstrations of modern technologies, such as the eBeaver electric aircraft. Participating in the Share the Fare program allows passengers not only to travel but also to contribute to charity, supporting local cancer foundations.

The terminal is located at 90 Front St Unit 1A, right in the heart of the city’s harbor. If you are already in the city center, a walk to the take-off site will take only 5–10 minutes along the scenic waterfront pedestrian area.

For those arriving from Nanaimo Airport (YCD) or the main bus station, it is most convenient to take a taxi or local bus—the trip will take about 15–20 minutes. The Nanaimo Regional Transit System has stops in the immediate vicinity of the terminal.

Travelers from Vancouver or Victoria choosing BC Ferries will need to transfer to a city-bound bus after arriving at Duke Point or Departure Bay ports. Parking for private vehicles is also available at the terminal. It is recommended to arrive at least 30–60 minutes before departure for check-in.

The history of this unique airline began in 1982, when it was known as Windoak Air Service. At that time, the entire staff consisted of just two pilots and two aircraft serving the needs of British Columbia's logging industry. However, the potential for water-based travel was so great that the company quickly outgrew its charter format for loggers.

The turning point came in the 1990s. Following the acquisition of Trans-Provincial Airlines in 1993, an active expansion of the route network began. By the end of the decade, scheduled flights connected Vancouver with Victoria and later with Nanaimo. A series of successful acquisitions of other carriers, such as West Coast Air and Whistler Air, turned Harbour Air into the world's largest airline operating exclusively seaplanes.

The modern chapter of the company's history is inextricably linked with environmental innovation. In 2019, Harbour Air made a true breakthrough in aviation by successfully testing the eBeaver—the world's first all-electric commercial aircraft. This event confirmed the company's status as a pioneer of "green" technologies, striving to make flights over the coast of Canada as environmentally friendly as possible.

For its achievements in sustainability and social responsibility, the company has repeatedly received prestigious awards, including the Nanaimo Business Award. Today, Harbour Air is not just transportation, but a symbol of an innovative approach to travel, combining historical heritage with the technologies of the future.

When planning a visit to Harbour Air Seaplanes, it's worth considering the format of your adventure. If your goal is a short introductory scenic flight over the coast, then including check-in and briefing, you will need about 1–2 hours.

For those using the seaplane as primary transport for a trip to Vancouver or Victoria, it's better to allow 2 to 4 hours. This is enough time to enjoy the terminal's atmosphere without rushing, watch the water take-offs, and complete the flight itself. If you opt for exclusive adventure packages or private charters with drop-offs in remote locations, such a journey can take a full day.

The Nanaimo terminal is open to visitors daily, providing convenient connections between coastal cities. Regular operating hours are from 07:00 to 16:15, Monday through Sunday.

Please note that flight schedules may change depending on the season, weather conditions, and daylight hours. For the most up-to-date information on departure times and availability, it is strongly recommended to check the official airline website before planning your trip.

The terminal's location in the central harbor makes it an ideal starting point for exploring the city. After your flight or while waiting for departure, you can take a short walk and see historical monuments, cozy neighborhoods, and picturesque lighthouses located just steps away.

Exploring the surrounding area will help you get a better feel for the atmosphere of this port city and complement your aerial adventure with discoveries on the ground.