Victoria & Butchart Gardens Day Trip with Ferry & Guide

Summary

Victoria’s harbor, Parliament, and Butchart Gardens in one relaxed day

You’ll cross from Vancouver to Victoria by ferry with a local guide who knows every island story, stroll through Parliament’s lawns and Chinatown’s alleys, then wander Butchart Gardens’ winding paths at your own pace. Expect salty breezes, garden scents, and small surprises along the way—plus skip-the-line entry and easy coach travel so you can just soak it all in.

What’s the experience like?

“Don’t blink or you’ll miss the eagles,” our driver called out as we rolled off the Vancouver streets toward Tsawwassen. I was still fumbling with my coffee lid when someone up front pointed — sure enough, a white head flashed above the ferry terminal. The salty wind hit us as we shuffled onto the BC Ferries deck. It smelled like kelp and engine oil, and I kept my eyes peeled for whales (no luck this time). Our guide, Samira, had this way of telling stories about the islands we passed — she said her grandma used to spot orcas from her kitchen window. I believed her.

Victoria itself felt gentler than Vancouver somehow — more flowers, softer light. We stopped by the Parliament Buildings first; there were kids running around on the grass and a busker playing something mournful on violin. I wandered down Government Street for a bit (the fudge shop is dangerous), then ended up in Chinatown where Samira showed us how to find Fan Tan Alley. She laughed when I tried to say “thank you” in Cantonese — probably butchered it. The inner harbour was busy but not rushed; seaplanes taking off, people waving at strangers.

I didn’t expect Butchart Gardens to smell so… green? There’s this damp sweetness when you step into the Sunken Garden, almost like rain even if it’s dry. The Japanese Garden was quieter — mossy stones underfoot and maples just starting to turn. I lost track of time watching koi flicker in the pond while a couple nearby argued gently about which rose color was best (she liked yellow). We had loaner umbrellas just in case, but honestly I barely noticed the weather after a while.

The ride back was quieter — everyone sort of sunk into their seats as dusk crept over the Gulf Islands. Someone handed around shortbread from a bakery in Victoria; it crumbled everywhere but tasted like butter and sugar and salt air mixed together. I still think about that view from the ferry deck: city lights blinking behind us, gardens fading into memory. Not every day trip leaves that kind of mark, you know?

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Victoria and Butchart Gardens tour

• Depart from Vancouver to Tsawwassen terminal
• Board BC Ferries for 90-minute Gulf Islands cruise
• Arrive at Swartz Bay terminal on Vancouver Island
• Scenic drive to Victoria city
• See Parliament Buildings and Fairmont Empress Hotel
• Free time at Government Street and Chinatown
• Stroll along Victoria Inner Harbour
• Visit Butchart Gardens and explore themed gardens
• Return to Swartz Bay terminal
• Board ferry back to Tsawwassen
• Return to Vancouver

Top questions

How long is the Victoria & Butchart Gardens day trip?

The tour lasts a full day including travel from Vancouver by coach and ferry crossings.

Is hotel pickup included for this tour?

No specific mention of hotel pickup; check with STAR Sightseeing directly for details.

Are restrooms available on board during travel?

Yes, new coach buses have onboard restrooms for comfort during transit.

What attractions are visited in Victoria?

You’ll see Parliament Buildings, Fairmont Empress Hotel, Government Street shops, Chinatown, Inner Harbour, and Butchart Gardens.

Is lunch included on this tour?

No lunch is included; you’ll have free time to explore cafes and shops in Victoria.

Are tickets to Butchart Gardens included?

Yes, skip-the-line entry to Butchart Gardens is part of your tour package.

Can infants or those with limited mobility join?

Yes—infants can ride in strollers or prams; foldable wheelchairs are accommodated on board.

What happens if it rains during the tour?

Loaner umbrellas are provided so guests stay comfortable whatever the weather brings.

What’s included

Your day includes comfortable coach transport with air conditioning and onboard restroom facilities, skip-the-line entry to Butchart Gardens, round-trip ferry crossings between Vancouver and Vancouver Island with marine wildlife viewing opportunities along the way, guidance from both a professional driver and dedicated step-on guide throughout your journey—and even loaner umbrellas if those Pacific clouds roll in unexpectedly before returning home that evening.