Vancouver: Victoria, Gulf Islands Cruise, & Butchart Gardens

Downtown, Victoria, Vancouver



Discover Vancouver Island and Victoria on a full-day coach and ferry tour from Vancouver. Wander through vibrant Butchart Gardens and enjoy free time exploring historic downtown Victoria.

Victoria & Butchart Gardens Full-Day Tour from Vancouver

This full-day guided tour departs from downtown Vancouver, ideal for visitors wanting to explore Victoria and Butchart Gardens with comfortable transport and sightseeing.

Tour Highlights

  • Comfortable coach transport from downtown Vancouver
  • Relaxing 90-minute ferry crossing with chances to spot marine wildlife
  • Two hours of free time at Butchart Gardens
  • Free time to explore Victoria’s Inner Harbour and downtown
  • Opportunities to visit Chinatown, Royal BC Museum, Empress Hotel, and more

Tour Description

The day begins in downtown Vancouver where you board a climate-controlled executive coach. Travel south through the city while your professional guide shares regional insights and stories.

Next, board the BC Ferry at Tsawwassen Terminal for a 90-minute crossing of the Georgia Strait. Enjoy views of the Southern Gulf Islands and watch for marine wildlife such as orcas, seals, and bald eagles. The ferry lounges and decks offer a comfortable place to relax and take photos.

On arrival at Vancouver Island, visit Butchart Gardens, a National Historic Site spanning 55 acres with over 900 plant varieties. Spend around two hours exploring themed gardens including the Sunken Garden, Rose Garden, and Japanese Garden.

The tour continues to Victoria, passing through Canada’s oldest Chinatown and along Victoria Harbour to the Inner Harbour area. You will have approximately 1.5 to 2 hours of free time in downtown Victoria to explore landmarks like the Royal BC Museum and Fairmont Empress Hotel, shop, or relax at waterfront cafés and restaurants.

In the late afternoon, return to the coach for the journey back to Swartz Bay ferry terminal. Cross the Georgia Strait, then continue by coach to the original Vancouver departure point, concluding the tour.

Includes

  • Roundtrip transportation by executive motorcoach with washroom and air conditioning
  • BC Ferry between Vancouver and Victoria
  • Butchart Gardens entry
  • Professional driver-guide
  • Roundtrip ferry fare
  • Free time in Victoria
  • Taxes

Excludes

  • Food
  • Tips

Important Information

  • Pick-up occurs 30 to 60 minutes before tour departure time
  • Luggage storage available on the coach
  • Washroom on board the coach
  • Food available for purchase on BC Ferries and at each stop

Cancellation Policy

Cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Booking Tips

Book in advance to secure your seats. Bring a camera and dress in layers to prepare for varying weather on the ferry and outdoors. Morning departures provide more daylight for exploring.

Frequently Asked Questions

The tour includes coach transport from downtown Vancouver, a 90-minute ferry crossing, a visit to Butchart Gardens, and free time to explore Victoria’s Inner Harbour and downtown.
The ferry crossing takes approximately 90 minutes each way.
Yes, there are opportunities to spot marine wildlife during the ferry crossing.
The tour departs from a central location in downtown Vancouver; check the tour website for exact pickup details.
Tour participants have about 2 hours of free time to explore Butchart Gardens.
Yes, the tour includes free time to explore Victoria’s Inner Harbour and downtown area.
You can visit landmarks like Chinatown, the Royal BC Museum, and the Empress Hotel during the free time in Victoria.
Yes, the tour is designed for visitors interested in nature, history, and culture around Vancouver and Victoria.
Yes, this full-day tour is bookable from Vancouver and includes round-trip transport.
Check the website for current opening hours and seasonal highlights at Butchart Gardens during your visit.

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