Victoria & Butchart Gardens Day Trip with Ferry from Vancouver

Summary

Ferry to Victoria wander Butchart Gardens stroll the harbour

You’ll board a ferry from Vancouver for a day trip to Victoria, stroll through Butchart Gardens’ colorful paths, and explore Victoria’s historic Inner Harbour with plenty of free time. Expect gentle sea air, garden scents, local stories from your guide, and moments that linger long after you return.

What’s the experience like?

I didn’t expect to feel so awake before sunrise, but something about leaving Vancouver for a day trip to Victoria made it easy. Our driver, Mark, was already joking about coffee as we climbed into the coach — he seemed to know half the city by name. The streets were still quiet when we set off, and I kept thinking how odd it felt to leave behind all that glass and bustle for something softer.

The ferry crossing is what I remember most — that briny smell, the slap of cold wind on my face out on the deck. We passed little islands dotted with pine trees, and someone pointed out an eagle perched up high. There was this moment where everyone just stopped talking and watched the water for whales (we didn’t see any, but honestly I didn’t mind). The ride took about 90 minutes, but it felt shorter somehow.

Butchart Gardens was next. I’d seen photos before, but walking through the Sunken Garden in real life is different — you catch these bursts of floral scent every few steps. There were kids running ahead of their parents and older couples holding hands by the fountain. Our guide Li told us stories about Jennie Butchart planting everything herself; Li laughed when I tried to say “rhododendron” in Mandarin — probably butchered it. It was busy, but never rushed.

Victoria itself had this relaxed energy — maybe it’s all the old buildings or how people actually stop for each other at crosswalks. We wandered along Government Street and Chinatown (I bought tea I’ll probably never use), then just sat watching boats in the Inner Harbour with a pastry from some bakery whose name I forgot. The afternoon light made everything look softer than back in Vancouver. Heading home on the ferry, everyone was quieter — tired in a good way. Sometimes you don’t realize you needed a change of scene until you’re already floating back.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Ferry cruise and Victoria sightseeing

• Depart downtown Vancouver to Tsawwassen Ferry Terminal
• Enjoy 90-minute ferry ride to Victoria
• Visit Butchart Gardens and explore themed gardens
• Explore Victoria Inner Harbour and local shops
• Return to Vancouver by ferry
• Arrive back in downtown Vancouver

Top questions

How long is the day trip from Vancouver to Victoria?

The tour lasts a full day, including ferry crossings and free time in Victoria.

Is hotel pickup included for this Victoria & Butchart Gardens tour?

Yes, hotel pickup and drop-off are included at most downtown Vancouver hotels.

How long is the ferry ride between Vancouver and Victoria?

The BC Ferries crossing takes about 90 minutes each way.

Are entrance fees to Butchart Gardens included?

Yes, entry to Butchart Gardens is included in your tour price.

Is there free time in Victoria during this day trip?

Yes, you’ll have ample free time to explore Victoria’s Inner Harbour area.

What kind of vehicle is used for transportation?

An air-conditioned coach is used for all ground transportation during the tour.

Can infants join this tour?

Infants are allowed but must sit on an adult’s lap during transport.

Are service animals permitted on this tour?

Yes, service animals are allowed on this tour.

What’s included

Your day includes hotel pickup and drop-off in downtown Vancouver, all transportation by air-conditioned coach and BC Ferries round-trip tickets, entry to Butchart Gardens with time to wander at your own pace, live commentary from your guide throughout the journey, plus plenty of free time to explore Victoria’s Inner Harbour before returning in the evening.