Cheap Flights to Nanaimo Harbour
One-way
Departing from
United States
Going to
Nanaimo Harbour
This is the lowest one-way flight price found by RatePunk users in the last 24 hours for a flight departing from Nanaimo Harbour. Fares are subject to change and may not be available for all dates. (Data last updated 11/7/2025).
Popular airlines to Nanaimo Harbour
Princess Air
Air Canada
Air Leap
Air Enterprise
Bangkok Airways
WestJet
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Facts About Flights to Nanaimo
To help you plan your journey, here are some quick Nanaimo flight facts and tips.
Nanaimo airports
Nanaimo boasts two key airports serving the harbour city: Nanaimo Airport (YCD) and Nanaimo Harbour Water Airport (ZNA). Nanaimo Airport (YCD), located a short drive south of the city, provides a range of domestic flights, connecting travellers to major hubs like Vancouver, Calgary and beyond. Expect a full-service airport with amenities such as car rentals, taxi services, and food vendors. Nanaimo Harbour Water Airport (ZNA) offers a unique travel experience with its floatplane services. Situated right on the harbour, ZNA provides quick and scenic connections to Vancouver Harbour and other coastal communities. This is a smaller facility geared towards regional, specialized travel, perfect for those prioritizing speed and breathtaking views.
Pro tip: search “Nanaimo (Any)” to see fares to all Nanaimo airports – sometimes one is cheaper than the others on your dates.
Insights for flights to Nanaimo Harbour
Cheapest airport
Victoria (YYJ)
Victoria International Airport, or YYJ if you're into the whole brevity thing, is your gateway to Vancouver Island adventures and is known for its friendly atmosphere. It is conveniently located a short drive from downtown Victoria and offers a stress-free start to your travels. Also, the surrounding area offers a sneak peek at the Pacific Northwest's natural beauty.
Nonstop vs. 1-stop
20+ cities
Flights through Nanaimo Harbour primarily serve Vancouver Island and the mainland, acting more as a convenient secondary airport than a major hub. Popular routes include connections to Vancouver and surrounding island communities, perfect for quick hops and scenic travels!
Number of airlines
10+ airlines
Nanaimo Harbour is serviced by over 10 airlines, including both full-service and low-cost options, such as Harbour Air Seaplanes and Sunshine Coast Air.
Typical price range (round-trip)
$150 - $600
Generally, flights to Nanaimo Harbour range from $150 to $600. Prices tend to increase during the peak summer months and around major holidays due to higher demand. Geographical factors don't play a big role, but booking in advance can help you snag better deals!
Flight frequency
100+ flights
Flights to Nanaimo Harbour take off frequently, ensuring you can find a time that suits you! While flights are generally consistent, you might notice a slight increase during peak tourist seasons and possibly during the busier morning and evening hours.
When Is the Best Time to Fly to Nanaimo Harbour
Timing is everything when hunting for cheap flights. Here are data-backed insights on the best times to fly to Nanaimo Harbour:
Cheapest month
November
Cheapest month
The cheapest month to fly to Nanaimo is November. During this time, you can enjoy fewer crowds and lower prices on flights and accommodations. Plus, the autumn foliage adds a special touch to the already beautiful scenery, making it a win-win for budget-conscious travelers.
Best day to book
Tuesday
Best day to book
The best day to book a flight to Nanaimo is typically on a Tuesday. Airlines often release deals early in the week to fill seats. Keep an eye out and you might just snag a fantastic fare!
Cheapest days to fly
Wednesday
Cheapest days to fly
The cheapest days to fly to Nanaimo are usually on Wednesdays. Mid-week flights tend to be less popular with business travelers. So, if you're flexible, flying on a Wednesday can save you a bundle.
Advance booking sweet spot
2 months
Advance booking sweet spot
The advance booking sweet spot for flights to Nanaimo is about 2 months before your travel date. Booking around this time often allows you to avoid the last-minute price surges. You will have a better chance of securing affordable tickets and preferred flight times.
Seasonal considerations
Simillar
Seasonal considerations
Seasonal considerations for booking flights to Nanaimo are simillar to other destinations. Prices may increase during peak travel seasons like summer and holidays. Booking in the shoulder months (spring and fall) can offer a balance of good weather and reasonable prices.
TL;DR: To summarize your flight strategy to Nanaimo, aim to fly in November for the best deals. Tuesdays are prime for booking flights, while flying on a Wednesday can save you money. Book about two months in advance to secure the best rates and be mindful of price hikes during peak seasons. With a little planning, you can enjoy a fantastic trip without breaking the bank!
Nanaimo Airports & Ground Transportation
One big question for travelers is which Nanaimo airport to fly into. Here’s a quick guide to Nanaimo’s airports and how to get to the city from each:
Nanaimo Airport (YCD)
Nanaimo Airport, also known as Cassidy Airport, is your gateway to central Vancouver Island. Just a short 15-minute drive south of Nanaimo, YCD offers a stress-free alternative to the larger, busier airports. You will find essential amenities such as car rentals and a restaurant to grab a bite. Getting to Nanaimo is a breeze with taxis, ride-sharing services, and shuttle options readily available. Consider pre-booking your ground transportation for a smoother arrival.
Tip: Arrive a little early to enjoy a coffee and snack at the airport restaurant before your flight.
Nanaimo Harbour Water Airport (ZNA)
For a truly unique arrival, check out the Nanaimo Harbour Water Airport! Situated right in the heart of downtown Nanaimo, this charming little airport caters to floatplanes. Imagine landing directly on the water and stepping out into the bustling harborfront. While amenities are limited due to its size, you're immediately surrounded by shops, restaurants, and attractions. The location offers unparalleled access to downtown, making taxis and walking the easiest transport options. Enjoy the scenic views as you take off or land!
Tip: Keep an eye out for harbor seals during takeoff and landing – they're often spotted nearby!
Other airports
Nanaimo might be your destination, but sometimes the best flight deals land at nearby airports! Consider flying into Vancouver International Airport (YVR) or Victoria International Airport (YYJ). While YVR offers a wider range of flight options and airlines, getting to Nanaimo involves a ferry ride, which can add to your travel time but offers stunning views; YYJ, on the other hand, provides a more direct route via bus or car, though flight choices may be more limited.
Airport transfers
Getting around Nanaimo from the airport is a breeze with several convenient options. Nanaimo Airport (YCD) offers taxi, shuttle, and car rental services right at the terminal. Public transit is also available, providing an affordable way to reach downtown and other parts of the city.
What to Do in Nanaimo
Nanaimo isn’t just about getting there – it’s about enjoying the country once you arrive! Here are some top things to do in Nanaimo, organized by interest:
Sightseeing & landmarks
Nanaimo is full of sightseeing and landmarks such as the Nanaimo museum where you will discover the unique stories this city has to offer. Also, don't miss out on the historical downtown area with lots of sightseeing spots.
Arts & culture
Discover Nanaimo's vibrant arts and culture scene! Visit local galleries showcasing talented artists, catch a live performance at the Port Theatre, or explore the city's public art installations.
Food & nightlife
Nanaimo has a bustling food and nightlife scene! You will find everything from cozy pubs to gourmet restaurants, enjoy fresh seafood, craft beers, and live music. Don't forget to try a Nanaimo Bar!
Shopping & fashion
Get your shop on in Nanaimo! From boutiques to malls, you'll find everything you need. Discover unique fashion pieces and support local businesses while you're at it.
Nearby getaways
Explore the beauty around Nanaimo with exciting getaways! Take a ferry to Newcastle Island for a day of hiking and picnicking, or drive up to Parksville to enjoy its sandy beaches and charming town.
No matter your interest – be it art, food, nightlife, or nature – Nanaimo has something for everyone. And the best part? Many events and attractions refresh throughout the year, so there’s always something new to experience each visit.
Events in Nanaimo This Month
once upon a craft fair
Join us for the Once Upon A Craft Fair at 2300 Bowen Rd, Nanaimo, BC. The fair will be held on Friday from 12-7pm, Saturday from 10-5pm, and Sunday from 10-4pm. Entry is $5, allowing you to come and go as you please for all three days.
chapters nanaimo: 7 pm
DIY Romantasy Kit will be performing live at Chapters Nanaimo (961) on Friday, November 14, 2025, at 7:00 pm. Don't miss this special performance!
nanaimo book club!
Explore various Halloween events in Nanaimo, including Trunk or Treat and Trick or Treat activities. View all Halloween-themed events happening in Nanaimo and join the spooky fun.
pisuwin
From award-winning director and choreographer Igor Dobrovolskiy, and multi-disciplinary artist Nipahtuwet Naka Wespahtuwet (Possesom) Paul (Wolastoqiyik, Sitansisk First Nation), Pisuwin is an innovative and captivating performance blending dance, music, and storytelling.
brandshots live nanaimo
Step into the spotlight at BrandShots Live Nanaimo, a one-day brand photography experience for entrepreneurs, creators, and professionals ready to enhance their visibility. Taking place on Friday, November [insert date], this event provides the perfect opportunity to create stunning brand images.
Frequently Asked Questions About Flights to Nanaimo Harbour
(Have more questions?) Feel free to reach out or check our comprehensive Nanaimo Harbour travel guide. We’re here to help make your flight to Nanaimo Harbour (and the trip itself) as smooth as possible.
Pro Tips for Finding Cheap Flights to Nanaimo Harbour
Finally, to wrap up, here’s a cheat sheet of pro tips that experienced travelers use to save on Nanaimo Harbour flights:
Be Flexible with Your Dates: Flying mid-week or during the shoulder season (spring/fall) can seriously slash the price of your flight to Nanaimo Harbour! Think of it as being fashionably unfashionable.
Consider Nearby Airports: Sometimes flying into a larger airport nearby and then taking a scenic ferry or a short connecting flight to Nanaimo Harbour can save you some serious dough. Hello, adventure!
Snag Early Bird Specials: Booking your flight well in advance is often cheaper. Keep an eye out for deals months ahead of your trip and pounce when the price is right! It's like hunting for travel treasure.
Set Up Price Alerts on RatePunk: Let RatePunk be your flight-finding fairy godmother! Set up price alerts for flights to Nanaimo Harbour, and we'll notify you when the price drops. It's like having a personal deal-sniffing dog.
Mix and Match Airlines: Don't be afraid to fly one airline to Nanaimo and another on the way back. Sometimes, booking two one-way tickets with different airlines is cheaper than a round-trip ticket. Get creative!
Red-Eye or Early Bird Gets the Worm: Flights at odd hours (think red-eye flights or super early morning departures) tend to be less popular and therefore cheaper. Just make sure you're a coffee person!
Embrace Layover Adventures: Non-direct flights with longer layovers are often cheaper than direct flights. Consider it a mini-vacation within your vacation! Just be sure you have enough time to make your connecting flight.
Check for Package Deals: Bundling your flight with a hotel or car rental can sometimes unlock significant savings. It's like getting a discount for being efficient! Check if there are such options for Nanaimo Harbour.
Follow Airlines on Social Media: Airlines often announce flash sales and special promotions on their social media channels. Give them a follow, and you might just snag a ridiculously cheap flight to Nanaimo Harbour.
Clear Your Browser Cookies: Airlines and booking sites sometimes track your searches and raise prices accordingly. Clear your browser cookies or use incognito mode when searching for flights to avoid this sneaky tactic. Stay one step ahead!
By keeping these tips in mind, you’ll be well-equipped to find the cheapest flights to Nanaimo Harbour and make the most of your travel budget. After all, the more you save on your flight, the more you can spend on a Broadway show, a nice meal, or an extra tour in Nanaimo Harbour! 🎉✈️
