TransLink is the regional transit authority for Metro Vancouver. Officially known as the South Coast British Columbia Transportation Authority. It plan and managers public transit infrastructure across Vancouver and other cities within the Lower Mainland. The metro region’s transit system is entirely integrated into TransLink Infrastructure meaning that you can seamlessly connect
Tickets
Compass Card is the automated fare collection system for Translink.
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.
Services & Systems
TransLink operates several different systems reflecting the marine geography, climate and infrastructure of the Lower Mainland. The main hub of the network is Vancouver’s Waterfront Station where all of the systems converge.
- SkyTrain: rapid transit metro system covering
- SeaBus: rapid ferry service crossing Vancouver Harbour to North Vancouver
- Bus: urban and regional buses system supporting the above mentioned routes (includes NightBus and RapidBus services)
- West Coast Express: on peak commuter rail running east-west along Burrard Inlet to Coquitlam, Maple Ridge, and Mission
Destinations
TransLink trains, buses, and ferries serve the Metro Vancouver and Lower Mainland area. Destinations served include Burnaby, Richmond, New Westminster, Surry, Coquitlam, North Vancouver, West Vancouver, Maple Ridge, and Mission. For tourists and visitors, the SkyTrain’s Canada Line from YVR Airport to Waterfront Station will be the most used route.
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.
Pros
- Integrated regional network of SkyTrain, SeaBus, Bus, and West Coast Express operate under a single fare system means convenient transfers.
- Extensive regional coverage covering more than 20 municipalities of the Lower Mainland and beyond.
- Convenient, direct air rail link from YVR Airport to downtown Vancouver.
- Ease of payment options with the Compass Card and credit/debit cards.
- 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 electric trolley buses, battery-electric buses, and fully electric SkyTrain system.
- Fully accessible network featuring step free stations and HandyDART.
Cons
- Overcrowding on buses and the metro during the rush hour
- Limited West Coast Express schedule means that the train primarily serves weekday commuters with no off-peak or weekend service
- Fare zones can be confusing for occasional and tourists riding the system.
- Growing demand leading to overcrowding and is putting strains on the system.
- Weather impacts disrupt bus service during rare heavy snowfall and ice.
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.