1 Day Victoria Tour with Butchart Gardens | from Vancouver

Rating: 4.5/5 (74 reviews)

Price: $191.99 per person
Duration: Approximately 12 hours
Location: Vancouver, Canada
Supplier: First Express Travel & CoachCanada

Introduction: What to Expect from This Tour

Planning a day trip from Vancouver to Victoria? This full-day sightseeing tour offers a fantastic way to see the highlights of British Columbia’s capital, even if time is tight. We’ve looked into what travelers love about it—and what you should consider—so you can decide if it fits your travel style.

Most enjoy the scenic ferry ride, the stunning Butchart Gardens, and the opportunity to explore Victoria’s historic sites. The guides are generally praised for their knowledge and friendliness, making even a long day feel engaging. The only potential downside? It’s a busy schedule, with about half your day spent on transportation, so patience and good footwear are key.

This tour is ideal for those craving a convenient, well-organized way to experience Victoria’s highlights without the hassle of planning every detail. It suits travelers who love nature, history, and scenic views, and don’t mind a full day of travel.

Good To Know

• Beautiful Scenery: The ferry ride offers stunning waterfront views, especially at sunset on the return trip.
• Well-Paced Visits: You get designated times at notable sites like Butchart Gardens and Victoria’s Inner Harbour.
• Knowledgeable Guides: Reviewers frequently mention guides like Charlie and Ken, who keep the group informed in multiple languages.
• Great Value: The price includes ferry tickets, garden admission, and a comfortable transport, delivering a comprehensive experience.
• Time Management: Some reviews note tight schedules, particularly at the gardens, so expect a quick but thorough visit.
• Authentic Local Experience: The tour passes through neighborhoods like Chinatown and historic landmarks, adding cultural depth.

The Itinerary Breakdown

Departure from Tsawwassen and Ferry Ride to Victoria

Your day starts early, with a pick-up from Tsawwassen, where you’ll board the BC Ferries for a 95-minute cruise across the Strait of Georgia. This ferry ride is often highlighted as a highlight itself. Reviewers frequently praise the views of Vancouver’s skyline and the ocean, especially when the sun begins to set on the way back.

One traveler mentioned, “The ferry ride takes about an hour and a half, and the views are lovely—it’s a peaceful way to start the day.” The ferry’s comfort and scenic perspective set a relaxing tone for the day ahead.

Exploring Butchart Gardens

Once on land, the first big stop is the world-famous Butchart Gardens. You’ll get approximately 75 minutes to wander through the 55-acre floral display, which draws over a million visitors annually. The gardens are praised for their variety of blooms, especially in spring when daffodils and hyacinths are in full display.

Reviewers often describe the gardens as serene and breathtaking, although some feel the allocated time can feel rushed, especially if you want to explore more leisurely. One reviewer exclaimed, “The gardens are beautiful, bursting with color, and so peaceful.” The admission ticket is included, so there’s no extra cost to enjoy this horticultural masterpiece.

Victoria’s Landmarks and Neighborhoods

Next, the tour takes you through some of Victoria’s most iconic sites:

• British Columbia Parliament Buildings: These are impressive to see, and the guide often shares insights into their history and function.
• Royal BC Museum: For history buffs, a quick pass by this museum offers a glance at BC’s natural and cultural history, with the option to explore more if time allows.
• Chinatown & Fan Tan Alley: Passing through these vibrant neighborhoods, you get a taste of Victoria’s multicultural side, especially the famous alley known for its unique shops and history.
• Inner Harbour: A core part of Victoria’s charm, the Inner Harbour is perfect for photos and soaking up the lively atmosphere of the city’s waterfront. Reviewers note that the 45-minute stop here is enough to enjoy the views and maybe snap a few pictures.

Return Journey and Sunset Ferry Ride

After a busy day, you’ll hop back on the ferry for the return trip to Vancouver. Many travelers enjoy the sunset views from the ferry, making the 1 hour and 35 minutes back a memorable experience. One reviewer remarked, “Watching the sunset on the ferry was a perfect end to a long but rewarding day.”

Transportation and Group Size

The tour uses an air-conditioned vehicle, ensuring comfort during transfers and between stops. You’ll join a group that typically caps at 24 travelers, which helps maintain a personalized, friendly atmosphere. Many reviews mention the driver’s professionalism and the smooth logistics making the day flow well.

Guides and Language

Guide quality is a strong point, with reviewers highlighting individuals like Charlie and Ken for their enthusiasm, knowledge, and multilingual explanations. Some comments note that guides go beyond the basics, sharing interesting facts about Victoria’s history and culture.

How the Day Feels for Travelers

Despite the long hours, many find the experience well worth the effort. One reviewer noted, “The logistics went smoothly, and our guide Jake kept everyone engaged. It was a good balance of sightseeing and relaxation.” Others enjoy the free time at key sites, although some mention that the time at Butchart Gardens can feel a bit rushed, especially if you want to take more photos or stroll slowly.

What’s Included and What’s Not

Included in the price are:

• Round-trip ferry tickets between Vancouver and Victoria
• Transportation in an air-conditioned vehicle
• Guide/driver service
• Admission to Butchart Gardens

Not included are meals and drinks, which means you’ll want to bring snacks or plan your own lunch, especially since one review mentioned being taken to a restaurant that charged per dish without prior explanation. Also, there’s a CA$15 service fee per person at Tsawwassen, so be prepared for that in cash.

Authentic Experiences from Travelers

Reviews reveal some nuanced experiences. For instance, one traveler pointed out the bilingual guide who managed to keep everyone informed, even in a group where many didn’t speak English fluently. Others appreciated the perfectly timed stops that allowed for photography and exploration.

However, not all reviews are glowing. Some travelers felt that lunch arrangements could be improved, with one noting that being taken to a restaurant where dishes were charged separately felt a bit abrupt. Others mentioned the long day and tight scheduling at the gardens, which limited their ability to relax and enjoy the scenery at leisure.

The common theme, though, is that guides like Charlie and Ken truly made a difference, offering enthusiastic commentary and multilingual explanations that added depth to the experience.

The Sum Up: Who Should Consider This Tour?

This full-day Victoria trip offers a convenient way to see BC’s capital without the stress of planning. It’s best suited for travelers who appreciate scenic ferry rides, well-curated sightseeing, and don’t mind a packed schedule. The inclusion of ferry tickets and garden entrance makes it a good value, especially compared to arranging each component separately.

If you’re craving a blend of natural beauty, cultural sights, and seaside views, this tour delivers in spades. It’s perfect for those who want to tick off Victoria’s highlights without sacrificing comfort or organization. Just be prepared for a long day on the go and make sure your camera batteries are charged!

FAQ

Is transportation provided for the entire day?
Yes, the tour uses an air-conditioned vehicle for transfers between sites and the ferry. This helps keep the journey comfortable and efficient.

What is included in the tour price?
Your fee covers ferry tickets, transportation, a guide/driver, and admission to Butchart Gardens. Meals and drinks are not included.

How long is the ferry ride?
The ferry ride from Tsawwassen to Victoria takes about 95 minutes, with the return trip similarly timed.

Is the tour suitable for children or seniors?
Most travelers can participate. The tour is a full day with some walking at the gardens and site visits, so consider mobility needs accordingly.

Can I expect guided commentary in multiple languages?
Yes, guides often provide information in three languages, making the experience accessible for diverse groups.

Are there time restrictions at each stop?
Yes, each site has a designated duration, with about 75 minutes at Butchart Gardens and 45 minutes at Victoria’s Inner Harbour. Some feel this is enough, but others think it’s a bit rushed.

What should I bring for the day?
Bring cash for the service fee, snacks or lunch if you prefer not to dine out, and your camera for photos.

Is there flexibility if the ferry gets delayed?
The tour accommodates ferry delays; guides are experienced at managing schedule adjustments without missing key sites.

What is the group size?
The maximum number of travelers is 24, which helps keep the trip intimate and engaging.

This tour provides a balanced, well-structured way to experience Victoria’s best in a day. Whether you’re a first-timer or returning visitor, the combination of scenic rides, floral beauty, and cultural sights makes it a compelling choice for a BC adventure.