Quick little escape: the Mill Bay — Brentwood Bay ferry is one of Vancouver Island’s most scenic shortcuts across Saanich Inlet — great for a slow, watery detour between the Malahat and the Saanich Peninsula. The crossing takes about 25 minutes and gives you a lovely waterfront view of the inlet and surrounding hills.  A few tips if you’re planning to ride: this route is first-come, first-served (non-reservable), and the ferry is small compared with major routes — arrive early on busy weekends