SkyTrain is the rapid transit metro system connecting Vancouver with the surrounding cities (notably: Burnaby, Coquitlam, New Westminster, Surry, and Richmond) and directly to YVR Airport. It is the world’s largest fully automated metro system. The SkyTrain runs on a mix of underground and elevated guideways. Along the elevated guideways, riders will have experience scenic views of the skyline and the Coastal Mountains.
Tickets
Compass Card is the automated fare collection system for Translink. Tickets can be purchased at the station.
Credit cards and mobile wallets are also accepted.
Fares
TransLink uses a zone based tariff system.
Travellers from YVR Airport will pay an additional fee of $6.50 (called AddFare) when departing from the airport or Sea Island. There is no additional fare when travelling to the airport.
Fares depend on the time of day and zone boundaries crossed. The areas are:
- Zone 1: Vancouver
- Zone 2: Burnaby, New Westminster, Richmond
- Zone 3: Coquitlam, Port Moody, Surry
Baggage
TransLink’s Etiquette on Transit page does not specify the baggage policy and what you cannot bring on board but generally do not bring more than you can carry.
Destinations
This metro system covers the vast majority of urban areas within the Vancouver area. Cities include: Vancouver, Burnaby, Coquitlam, New Westminster, Surry, and Richmond
Schedule
The SkyTrain operates 3 lines:
- Expo Line
- Millennium Line
- Canada Line
Onboard
The SkyTrain runs on a mix of underground and elevated guideways. Along the elevated guideways, riders will have experience scenic views of the skyline and the Coastal Mountains evoking a cyberpunk-esqu city landscape, especially during the evening, sunset hours.
Classes
Pros
- Extensive regional coverage covering most of Metro Vancouver and major attractions.
- Convenient, direct air rail link from YVR Airport to downtown Vancouver.
- Ease of payment options with the Compass Card and credit/debit cards.
- Easy transfers given that the SkyTrain is seamlessly integrated with other TransLink systems: (Bus, SeaBis, and West Coast Express).
- Frequent SkyTrain service operating every 2-6 minutes over the world’s largest fully automated rapid transit system.
- High reliability with an on-time performance of 96.5%.
- Environmentally friendly with fully electric SkyTrain system.
- Fully accessible stations
Cons
- Overcrowding on the metro during the rush hour
- Fare zones can be confusing for occasional and tourists riding the system.
- Growing demand leading to overcrowding and is putting strains on the system.
- Noise particularly on older sections of the Expo Line
Notes
- Dress for the weather! Vancouver’s winters are rainy lasting for days. Many station platforms are exposed to the elements so consider a waterproof jacket to remain dry.
All systems operated by
VIA Rail Canada
