Originally Posted by
Swiss Tony
I think you've just convinced me. The idea had been that the kids would rather be on a ferry than stuck in the car, but at least the car would be going somewhere.
We used the Lynden crossing last time & it wasn't bad at all. As I understand it, we also don't need ESTAs if we cross by land but we do if we come in on the ferry. Multiply that by 5 (I think they've all expired now) and that's quite a saving.
I second the driving suggestion for the reasons cited. ^
Just to add another facet, I haven't been on
MV Coho in decades but it's old (although it may have been spruced up for all I know) and the crossing isn't nearly as scenic as sailing through the islands. It's possible two ferries in one day for your children might be one too many.
There are various ways to check border-crossing waits (
websites, AM News 1130, etc.) and as you know you have a choice of three crossings from Vancouver, Peace Arch, the "Truck Crossing," and Huntingdon/Lynden (something of a roundabout drive from Vancouver). Be aware that there's a lot of traffic at times due to the high Can $ and the increased customs exemptions for returning Canadians.