Here's what you'll eat on board the new luxury ferry from Vancouver to Victoria

Lindsay William-Ross/Daily Hive

V2V, the new luxury ferry service between Vancouver’s Coal Harbour and Victoria’s inner harbour, launches on May 1, and those who board the 3.5-hour cruise hungry have a lot to look forward to.

Linked the two downtown hubs via the water, V2V aims at drawing more of the vacationer market with its tiered premium service. On board the fully refitted catamaran the Australian-based operating company purchased from Quebec passengers will find leather seating, flip-out or built-in tables, power outlets at each seat, and on-board Wi-Fi.

And of course, there’s the food! V2V partnered with Truffles, a multi-faceted Victoria catering business that not only emphasizes using locally-sourced ingredients, but also has over two decades of experience in providing food service for area schools, events, offices, and attractions. (This is not the same Truffles Vancouverites may recognize from places like VanDusen Garden, btw.)

Truffles’ chef JP Green oversees the V2V food program, which includes an array of grab-and-go style selections in Premium Comfort class, and three-course sit-down meal options in First Class and Royal Class.

Breakfast on V2V (Lindsay William-Ross/Daily Hive)

Look for their handmade root chips, fresh wraps, cheese and charcuterie, salads, and desserts, all using seasonal ingredients–many of which come right from purveyors and farmers on Vancouver Island.

Passengers who book in First or Royal Class have a three-course meal included with their ticket. Diners on the 8 am departure from Vancouver will have a breakfast menu that includes things like croissants with egg and avocado, fresh fruit, Croque Monsieur, and veggie quiche.

Those headed from Victoria to Vancouver on the 2 pm departure will have a lunch menu with options like a Mezze plate with hummus and pita, open faced sandwiches, charcuterie, and salads.

Green says “seasonality is really important,” in guiding their menu, adding that what Truffles is all about are “presentation, quality, and a lasting impression.”

The winning design for the V2V Empress, as submitted by artist William Cook (V2V Vacations/Facebook)

V2V is in the process of securing their liquor license, but does expect to be able to serve beer and wine along with coffee, tea, and other soft drinks.

This new transportation option linking the two downtown harbours by water isn’t the first time this has been done, however with increased tourism in the region along with the revitalization of Victoria’s harbour–including V2V’s terminus, the historic restored Steamship Building–makes now an ideal time to give locals and visitors alike an alternative to BC Ferries and seaplanes.

See also