Victoria & Butchart Gardens Day Trip from Vancouver

Summary

Ferry to Victoria then wander Butchart Gardens and city streets

You’ll cross from Vancouver to Victoria by ferry with your guide, stroll historic city streets at your own pace, then lose yourself among Butchart Gardens’ winding paths and quiet corners. Expect small surprises—a local story here, a garden scent there—and plenty of time for your own discoveries before heading back across the water at sunset.

What’s the experience like?

I still remember the moment our little coach rolled right onto the BC Ferry—felt a bit surreal, honestly. One minute we’re in Vancouver’s gray morning hum, and then suddenly there’s salt air and seagulls overhead. The crossing takes about 90 minutes but I barely noticed; I got lost watching the water shift from slate to blue while kids pressed their noses to the window. Our guide (her name was Karen, she wore bright yellow sneakers) pointed out the Gulf Islands as we passed. She told us stories about orcas—I half-expected to spot one but no luck this time.

Victoria surprised me. It’s quieter than Vancouver, almost old-fashioned in a way that makes you slow down. We had free time downtown so I wandered past street musicians and a guy sketching the Parliament buildings on a napkin. There was this smell—roses mixed with seaweed—that followed me around. I grabbed a coffee (strong enough to wake the dead) and just people-watched for a while before meeting up with the group again.

The drive out to Butchart Gardens felt like exhaling after city noise. Rolling countryside, glimpses of farms, then suddenly you’re there: 55 acres of gardens that somehow don’t feel showy or forced. The Sunken Garden actually made me stop short—layers of green dropping away below, tulips everywhere. It was busy but not rushed; people took their time, even kids seemed quieter here. I tried saying “arigato” in the Japanese Garden (Li laughed—my accent is hopeless). There’s something about wandering those paths that sticks with you after you leave.

On the ferry back, everyone was quieter—maybe tired or just full from whatever they’d picked up at dinner onboard. Sunlight flickered off the water and Karen pointed out where we’d come from earlier in the day. I kept thinking how different Victoria felt from Vancouver even though it’s so close by ferry. Hard to explain unless you’ve done it yourself.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Victoria and Butchart Gardens tour

• Board mini-coach onto BC Ferries
• Enjoy 90-minute scenic cruise
• Explore downtown Victoria on foot
• Travel to Butchart Gardens by coach
• Stroll through Butchart Gardens
• Return cruise with dining onboard
• Arrive back at hotel

Top questions

How long is the ferry ride from Vancouver to Victoria?

The BC Ferries crossing takes about 90 minutes each way.

Is hotel pickup included in this day trip?

Yes, hotel pickup and drop-off are included; just call ahead to arrange it.

Do I get free time in Victoria on this tour?

Yes, you’ll have leisure time downtown to explore on your own before visiting Butchart Gardens.

Are admission fees for Butchart Gardens covered?

Admission to Butchart Gardens is included in your tour price.

Is this day trip suitable for families with young children?

Yes, infants and small children can join; prams or strollers are welcome.

Can service animals join this tour?

Yes, service animals are allowed on this trip.

What should I expect at Butchart Gardens?

You’ll find 55 acres of themed gardens including Sunken Garden and Japanese Garden—plenty of space for walking and relaxing.

Are meals included during the tour?

No meals are included but dining options are available onboard BC Ferries during crossings.

What’s included

Your day includes hotel pickup and drop-off in Vancouver, all ferry fares for both crossings to Victoria Island, admission tickets for Butchart Gardens, plus guidance from a local driver-guide throughout—you just need to call ahead for your pickup details before setting off in the morning.