Vancouver: Victoria, Gulf Islands Cruise, & Butchart Gardens

Discover the stunning natural beauty of British Columbia’s west coast with a day trip from Vancouver to the iconic city of Victoria and the picturesque Gulf Islands. Soak in the tranquil atmosphere as you cruise across the sparkling waters, then learn about the vibrant hues and intricate designs of the renowned Butchart Gardens. From breathtaking scenery to cultural exploration, this tour promises an unforgettable experience that will leave you eager to uncover more of this captivating region.

About Your Stay

• Full-day tour from Vancouver to Vancouver Island, Victoria, and Butchart Gardens, offering a comprehensive experience of the region’s natural and cultural attractions.
• Includes roundtrip transportation by bus and ferry, with 2 hours of self-guided exploration at the renowned Butchart Gardens.
• Features a scenic 45-minute drive to the ferry terminal, followed by a 95-minute ferry ride to Vancouver Island.
• Provides free time to sightsee, shop, and visit landmarks in downtown Victoria, such as the Empress Hotel and Royal BC Museum.
• Tour is priced at $159.51 per person with a 15% discount, and offers a pay later option and free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview and Pricing

The tour offers a full-day trip from Vancouver to explore Vancouver Island, Victoria, and the renowned Butchart Gardens.

The 13-hour excursion is priced at $159.51 per person, a 15% discount off the regular rate. Guests can reserve now and pay later, and free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance.

The tour includes roundtrip transportation by bus and ferry, as well as two hours of self-guided exploration at Butchart Gardens.

Pickup and drop-off are offered at multiple locations in downtown Vancouver, and the tour has earned an impressive 4.7/5 rating from over 600 reviews.

Itinerary and Highlights

The tour begins with pickup at select downtown Vancouver hotels, including the Fairmont Waterfront, Hyatt Regency, Sutton Place, and Holiday Inn.

Guests then embark on a scenic 45-minute drive to the ferry terminal, followed by a 95-minute ferry ride to Vancouver Island.

Once there, visitors enjoy 2 hours of self-guided exploration at the renowned Butchart Gardens, featuring over 900 plant varieties.

Afterwards, travelers have free time to sightsee, shop, and visit landmarks like the Empress Hotel and Royal BC Museum in downtown Victoria.

The return journey includes ferry and bus rides back to Vancouver.

Transportation Details

Roundtrip transportation by bus and BC ferry fares is included in the tour package.

The tour offers pickup and drop-off at multiple locations, including the Sandman Hotel, Sutton Place, Fairmont Waterfront, Hyatt Regency, and Holiday Inn.

Luggage storage and washroom facilities are available on board the bus and ferry. This seamless transportation ensures a hassle-free experience, allowing you to focus on enjoying the sights and attractions along the way.

The tour itinerary is subject to change, so it’s recommended to check the details before your departure.

Customer Reviews and Ratings

According to the information provided, the Vancouver Cruise and Gardens tour has an impressive overall rating of 4.7 out of 5 based on 644 reviews.

Customers particularly praise the knowledgeable guides, giving them a 4.9/5 rating. The transportation also receives high marks at 4.7/5.

While the value for money is still rated positively at 4.4/5, it’s the slightly lower score in this category.

More Great Tours Nearby

Exploring Vancouver Island

After learning about the impressive customer reviews, the next step is to explore what Vancouver Island has to offer during this full-day excursion. Visitors will start their journey with a scenic 45-minute drive to the ferry terminal, followed by a relaxing 95-minute ferry ride to the island. The highlight is a 2-hour self-guided tour of the stunning Butchart Gardens, featuring over 900 plant varieties. Afterward, there’s free time to explore downtown Victoria, including landmarks like the Empress Hotel and Royal BC Museum. The return journey follows the same route, providing a well-rounded experience of Vancouver Island.

| Destination | Duration |

| — | — |

| Downtown Vancouver | 45 minutes |

| Ferry to Vancouver Island | 95 minutes |

| Butchart Gardens | 2 hours |

| Downtown Victoria | Free time |

| Return to Vancouver | Same as above |

Discovering Butchart Gardens

The centerpiece of this tour is the world-renowned Butchart Gardens, where visitors can enjoy over 900 varieties of vibrant flowers, plants, and trees across 55 acres of meticulously maintained grounds.

Guests will have 2 hours to explore the diverse garden landscapes, from the serene Japanese Garden to the colorful Sunken Garden.

Stroll along winding paths, discover hidden grottoes, and admire the stunning architecture of the gardens’ historic buildings.

Whether you’re a nature enthusiast or seeking a tranquil escape, Butchart Gardens offers a truly remarkable and picturesque experience.

Sightseeing in Victoria

After the immersive experience at Butchart Gardens, the tour provides free time to explore the charming city of Victoria.

Visitors can stroll the picturesque Inner Harbour, admiring the iconic Empress Hotel and the striking Parliament Buildings.

• Wander through the Royal BC Museum to learn about the province’s Indigenous cultures and natural history.

• Browse the shops and boutiques along Government Street, known for its historic architecture and vibrant atmosphere.

• Savor local cuisine at one of the many cafes or restaurants, from seafood to farm-to-table fare.

• Ride the historic Harbour Ferry for a unique perspective of the waterfront.

Returning to Vancouver

As the tour winds down, participants board the ferry for the return journey to Vancouver.

The 95-minute ferry ride offers more scenic views of the Gulf Islands.

Once back on land, the bus transports everyone back to the city, with drop-offs at the original pickup locations.

Along the way, travelers can reflect on the day’s highlights – the vibrant Butchart Gardens, the historic charm of Victoria, and the breathtaking natural landscapes of Vancouver Island.

The tour provides a well-rounded experience, allowing visitors to enjoy the natural and cultural wonders of British Columbia.

Questions About Your Stay

What Is the Cancellation Policy for This Tour?

The cancellation policy allows for free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. This provides flexibility for participants to change their plans without penalty.

Can I Request Special Dietary Accommodations?

The tour does not provide special dietary accommodations. However, guests can explore the restaurants and cafes in Victoria during the free time to find suitable dining options that meet their dietary needs.

Is There Any Free Time to Explore on My Own?

Yes, the tour includes free time in downtown Victoria for you to explore on your own, allowing you to sightsee, shop, and visit landmarks like the Empress Hotel and Royal BC Museum at your leisure.

What Is the Dress Code for the Tour?

The tour has a casual dress code, as guests will be spending time outdoors exploring gardens and downtown areas. Comfortable, weather-appropriate clothing and walking shoes are recommended to ensure a pleasant and comfortable experience throughout the day.

Can I Bring My Own Camera Equipment?

Participants can bring their own camera equipment on the tour. The tour provides ample opportunities to capture scenic views and highlights at Butchart Gardens and other destinations. Guests are encouraged to bring any desired photography gear to document their experience.

Final Verdict On This Stay

This full-day Vancouver tour offers a wonderful opportunity to experience the stunning natural beauty and cultural attractions of Victoria and the Gulf Islands. From the scenic ferry ride to the breathtaking Butchart Gardens and the charming streets of Victoria, this excursion provides a seamless blend of nature, history, and leisure. It’s an ideal way to learn about the unique charm of Vancouver Island and create lasting memories.

You can check availability for your dates here: