Seattle to Victoria: drive or clipper?

Good question. I've never taken the clipper, but I'd say driving to Port Angeles and taking the ferry across, you get the best of both worlds. It gives you more opportunity to explore along the way as well. What's the downside? It takes longer, I guess?

clipper is more romantic

I've taken the clipper and it's wonderful (and fast). I'd say if fun/beauty is your main objective, the clipper is the way to go.

Clipper will save time (see Ben above) but if you have the stamina, the combination of a largely-unlovely drive from Seattle to Olympia, followed by gorgeous drive from Olympia up 101 to Port Angeles, and ferry ride from Pt Angeles to Vic - unbeatable landscapes, a place to get pie (Quilcene), a hardy boat ride = thoroughly interesting good time except for the first leg, which only lasts an hour. Resist stopping at the Poodle Dog restaurant in Fife; hold out for any of eight really nice places in Olympia which many Flutherists can name if asked.

@susanc: well said. That's more or less the sentiment I was trying to convey. One suggestion, though, take the ferry across from either Seattle or Edmonds. It's more relaxing and prettier than driving south through Tacoma.

the clipper is awesome and totally worth it. the ferries can get expensive and it takes like 6 hours to get to vic from seattle. just do the clipper and save yourself the hassle.

Just took the clipper last weekend. It was really enjoyable, plus it is whale season!