Vancouver ↔ Victoria Day Trip by Seaplane + Butchart Gardens
Traveler rating
4.7/5
Based on 232 traveler reviews. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.
Quick answer
Is Vancouver ↔ Victoria Day Trip by Seaplane + Butchart Gardens worth booking?
Vancouver ↔ Victoria Day Trip by Seaplane + Butchart Gardens is a 6-hour experience in Vancouver, Canada, from $523 per person. It scores 68 out of 100 on the Outty Ranking, which we label “Solid Choice”, based on a 4.7/5 rating across 232 reviews. Cancellation is free up to 24 hours before the start time. Same-day spots are currently showing.
- Outty Ranking
- 68 / 100
- Rating
- 4.7/5 (232)
- Duration
- 6 hours
- From
- $523 per person
Depart Vancouver Harbour by seaplane for an exciting flight over the Gulf Islands to beautiful Victoria. Then take a bus tour to the world famous Butchart Gardens. In Victoria, shopping, the Royal BC Museum, and several other attractions are just steps away. Return to downtown Vancouver on an afternoon or evening flight.
What you get
About this experience
Depart Vancouver Harbour by seaplane for an exciting flight over the Gulf Islands to beautiful Victoria. Then take a bus tour to the world famous Butchart Gardens. In Victoria, shopping, the Royal BC Museum, and several other attractions are just steps away. Return to downtown Vancouver on an afternoon or evening flight.
What's included
Included
- All taxes, fees and handling charges
- Admission to The Butchart Gardens
- Sustainability fee
- Return seaplane airfare between Vancouver and Victoria
- Self-guided tour of The Butchart Gardens at your own pace
- Return bus transportation to and from The Butchart Gardens with scenic commentary from your driver
Not included
- Gratuities
- Hotel pickup and drop off
- Food, beverages and meals at Butchart Gardens or in Victoria
- Personal purchases and souvenirs at The Butchart Gardens
- Travel insurance
What you'll see and do
Harbour Air
Begin your experience at the Vancouver Harbour Flight Centre, nestled in the heart of downtown Vancouver at the scenic Coal Harbour. Arrive 40 minutes before your scheduled flight for check-in and a brief safety orientation. Then, board your floatplane and lift off for a 35-minute scenic flight—a thrilling yet serene introduction to the region’s coastal beauty.
60 minutes here · Admission included
Shortly after takeoff, you'll soar over the shimmering waters of the Georgia Strait, with the forested Gulf Islands scattered below like gems. Each island offers a glimpse into the quiet, coastal lifestyle of small communities tucked into nature—an authentic look at life on BC’s rugged coastline.
Pass by without stopping
The Butchart Gardens
Arrive in Victoria’s picturesque Inner Harbour, located in the heart of the city. Upon landing, proceed to the front sidewalk of the iconic Fairmont Empress Hotel, where you’ll find the Gray Line check-in kiosk. After checking in, board the bus for a scenic, driver-narrated transfer to the world-renowned Butchart Gardens. Upon arrival, enjoy a self-guided tour through beautifully themed landscapes, vibrant floral displays, and peaceful walking paths—an enriching encounter with the natural beauty of British Columbia. A minimum stay of two hours at the Gardens is recommended for the best experience. After your visit, return to the designated bus pick-up area for your transfer back to downtown Victoria.
210 minutes here · Admission included
Victoria
Before your return flight, enjoy free time to explore Victoria’s charming downtown. Whether it’s waterfront strolls, boutique shopping, or a local café visit, your time here is yours—offering a chance to connect with the city on your terms.
Pass by without stopping
As the day winds down, board your floatplane for the relaxing return flight to downtown Vancouver. Watch the coastline shift in golden light as your journey ends the same way it began—with a stunning view from above.
40 minutes here
Where it starts and ends
Meeting point
Vancouver
Vancouver Harbour Flight Centre Unit #1 - 1055 Canada Place, Vancouver, BC, V6C 0C3 The seaplane terminal is located at Burrard Landing in Coal Harbour. Parking is available at 1095 W Waterfront Rd, Vancouver, BC. Check-in for your flight 40 minutes ahead of the scheduled departure.
Hotel pickup
No pickup: everyone meets at the start point.
Ends at
Vancouver Harbour Flight Centre Unit #1 - 1055 Canada Place, Vancouver, BC, V6C 0C3 The seaplane terminal is located at Burrard Landing in Coal Harbour. Parking is available at 1095 W Waterfront Rd, Vancouver, BC. Check-in for your flight 40 minutes ahead of the scheduled departure.
Options you can book
Depart 9:30am/Return 5:00pm+
Check in 40 mins. prior Duration: 8 hours Vehicle type: Seaplane, Bus and Seaplane BUTCHART GARDENS TOUR: 45-min narrated bus to Butchart Gardens (admission included), ~2-hour visit, then 45-min return bus to downtown Victoria.
Depart 10:00am/Return 5:00pm+
Check in 40 mins. prior Duration: 7 hours Vehicle type: Seaplane, Bus and Seaplane BUTCHART GARDENS TOUR: 45-min narrated bus to Butchart Gardens (admission included), ~2-hour visit, then 45-min return bus to downtown Victoria.
Depart 9:20am/Return 5:00pm+
Check in 40 mins. prior Duration: 9 hours Vehicle type: Seaplane, Bus and Seaplane BUTCHART GARDENS TOUR: 45-min narrated bus to Butchart Gardens (admission included), ~2-hour visit, then 45-min return bus to downtown Victoria.
Depart 11:40am/Return 6:00pm+
Check in 40 mins. prior Duration: 7 hours Seaplane, Bus and Seaplane BUTCHART GARDENS TOUR: 45-min narrated bus to Butchart Gardens (admission included), ~2-hour visit, then 45-min return bus to downtown Victoria.
Depart 8:00am/Return 3:00pm+
Check in 40 mins. prior Duration: 7 hours Vehicle type: Seaplane, Bus and Seaplane BUTCHART GARDENS TOUR: 45-min narrated bus to Butchart Gardens (admission included), ~2-hour visit, then 45-min return bus to downtown Victoria.
Depart 7:30am/Return 3:00pm+
Check in 40 mins. prior Duration: 8 hours Vehicle type: Seaplane, Bus and Seaplane BUTCHART GARDENS TOUR: 45-min narrated bus to Butchart Gardens (admission included), ~2-hour visit, then 45-min return bus to downtown Victoria.
Depart 9:15am/Return 5:00pm+
Check in 40 mins. prior Duration: 8 hours Vehicle type: Seaplane, Bus and Seaplane BUTCHART GARDENS TOUR: 45-min narrated bus to Butchart Gardens (admission included), ~2-hour visit, then 45-min return bus to downtown Victoria.
Depart 9:00am/Return 5:00pm+
Check in 40 mins. prior Duration: 8 hours Vehicle type: Seaplane, Bus and Seaplane BUTCHART GARDENS TOUR: 45-min narrated bus to Butchart Gardens (admission included), ~2-hour visit, then 45-min return bus to downtown Victoria.
Depart 11:00am/Return 6:00pm+
Check in 40 mins. prior Duration: 7 hours Vehicle type: Seaplane, Bus and Seaplane BUTCHART GARDENS TOUR: 45-min narrated bus to Butchart Gardens (admission included), ~2-hour visit, then 45-min return bus to downtown Victoria.
Depart 7:40AM/Return 3:00pm+
Check in 40 mins. prior Duration: 7 hours Vehicle type: Seaplane, bus and Seaplane BUTCHART GARDENS TOUR 9:30AM: 45-min narrated bus to Butchart Gardens (admission included), ~2-hour visit, then 45-min return bus to downtown Victoria.
Depart 7:55AM/Return 3:00pm+
Check in 40 mins. prior Duration: 7 hours Vehicle type: Seaplane, bus and Seaplane BUTCHART GARDENS TOUR 9:30AM: 45-min narrated bus to Butchart Gardens (admission included), ~2-hour visit, then 45-min return bus to downtown Victoria.
Depart 8:30am/Return 5:00pm+
Check in 40 mins. prior Duration: 9 hours Vehicle type: Seaplane, Bus and Seaplane BUTCHART GARDENS TOUR: 45-min narrated bus to Butchart Gardens (admission included), ~2-hour visit, then 45-min return bus to downtown Victoria.
Before you book
- Cancellation
- For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
- Ticket
- Mobile Only
- Runs on
- Every day
- Group size
- Up to 14 travelers per booking
- Operated by
- Harbour Air Ltd
Know before you go
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
- All passengers 18 years and above must present either one piece of valid government issued photo identification, or two pieces of government-issued identification without a photograph
- Baggage allowance: 25 lbs. Guaranteed. Additional standby baggage is space available with a charge. Baggage weight allowance includes all baggage, including purses.
- Passengers must arrive at the terminal at least 40 minutes before the scheduled departure time, and be fully checked-in 20 minutes before the scheduled departure time.
- Passengers not checked-in before the check-in cutoff times will not be able to board their scheduled flight and will not be refunded their fare.
- If travelling with children, please be aware that the child fare applies to children aged 2-11 at the time of departure.
- A mobility assistance device, such as a wheelchair or cane, may be used by a passenger to get from the terminal to the aircraft, however, passengers must have the ability to walk on and off the aircraft with minimal or no assistance.
Photos
What travelers are saying
Outty’s summary of the themes that recur across 232 traveler reviews. Written by us, not quoted from reviewers.
Organization
5 mentionsPickup, timing, and logistics are described as running smoothly.
The guide
4 mentionsTravelers single out the guide as the reason the experience works.
Photo opportunities
3 mentionsThe views and photo stops come up again and again.
Value for money
3 mentionsTravelers feel they got more than they paid for.
Knowledge and storytelling
2 mentionsReviewers describe the commentary as informative rather than scripted.
Traveler reviews
232 verified traveler reviews for Vancouver ↔ Victoria Day Trip by Seaplane + Butchart Gardens. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.
Wonderful Experience!
Wonderful Experience. Saw an orca while flying to Victoria. We decided to fly because of the time it would take on the ferry both ways. This allowed us to spend more time at the Gardens & downtown Victoria.
Response from the operator: margiea1415, thank you for your review! We're delighted to hear you had a wonderful experience and that flying Harbour Air gave you more time to explore. We're glad the seaplane journey was a memorable part of your trip, and we hope to welcome you aboard again in the future.
via Viator
Amazing experience - the...
Amazing experience - the flights were great and we felt very safe on the journey. The bus trip to Butchart gardens was well organised and the gardens were so beautiful.
Response from the operator: Ange_M, thank you for sharing your experience! We're glad to hear you had an amazing time and enjoyed both the flights and the beautiful visit to Butchart Gardens. It's especially wonderful to know you felt safe throughout your journey and that the tour arrangements worked well. Thank you for flying Harbour Air!
via Viator
Seaplane ride was smooth...
Seaplane ride was smooth and saved a lot of time. However to locate the seaplane terminal In Vancouver was confusing and took a while. I wish there were more obvious and prominent direction signs. Bus ride to Butchart garden worked well. The highlight of the tour Butchart garden was amazing and we felt we had enough time to stroll through and take inn the beauty of the garden. Highly recommend this tour.
Response from the operator: SIRAM_S, thank you for sharing your feedback. We're pleased to hear you enjoyed the smooth flight and had a wonderful visit to Butchart Gardens. We also appreciate your comments regarding wayfinding to our Vancouver terminal and are sorry to hear locating it was challenging. We hope the directions included in your confirmation were helpful, and we're grateful for your feedback as we continue to look for ways to improve the guest experience. Thank you for your recommendation, and we hope to welcome you aboard again soon.
via Viator
Do not recommend
I wish I could give this experience a positive review, but unfortunately, our experience with Harbour Air was extremely disappointing. The instructions for locating and boarding the shuttle bus were confusing, and there was no one available to assist us. Because of this, we ultimately had to take an Uber to the Gardens. When we arrived, we were denied entry and had to purchase new admission tickets at our own expense. We then contacted Harbour Air to request a refund, but they have been unwilling to resolve the issue. What makes this particularly frustrating is that we received conflicting explanations. Initially, we were told by email that the Gardens admission was not included, and I presented the ticket we had been provided. We were then told that missing the shuttle automatically voided our admission. However, Harbour Air did ultimately come back and pick us up, which makes that explanation even more difficult to understand. The entire situation was unnecessarily frustrating and resulted in additional expense and inconvenience. I would not recommend this excursion or Harbour Air based on our experience. I hope the company will take this feedback seriously and improve both its instructions and customer service.
Response from the operator: O8901QSsc, thank you for taking the time to share your experience. We're sorry to hear about the frustration and inconvenience you encountered. If you would like us to review your booking in more detail, please feel free to contact us at customercare@harbourair.com. We'd be happy to look further into this for you.
via Tripadvisor
Absolutely amazing experience!
What an amazing time! We set up our trip online to Victoria and Butchart Gardens through Viator to take Harbour Air. It was a seamless experience. Viator was very responsive to all my questions via email and we were able to set up a specific time to take our flight back from Victoria. Arriving at Harbour Air we checked in easily and watched planes take off while we waited. I was a little nervous because I’ve never been on a sea plane. Our pilot Travis Gordon was a wonderful pilot. The flight was so smooth and scenic. He even remembered us on our flight back after our day trip to Butchart Gardens. The gardens are a must. Like walking through a dream. Even our bus driver to the gardens was so nice and informative with funny stories on the way. Travis our pilot, he remembered my husband and put us in a seat at back with more leg room for our flight back to Vancouver. I highly recommend booking through Viator and Harbour Air. So stress free and a once in a lifetime experience we’ll never forget. Thank you so much to all the staff and professionals that set up this experience. Absolutely worth the splurge to take a sea plane that’s only a 35min flight.
Response from the operator: Heather_L, thank you for taking the time to share your experience with us and fellow travelers. We are so pleased you enjoyed your trip to Victoria. The convenience of our service and exceptional team members are some of the many things our guests appreciate, and we are happy to hear you think so as well! We appreciate the recommendation, and we look forward to seeing you on your next flight!
via Viator
Good to know
- Duration
- 6 hours
- Free cancellation
- Up to 24h before
- Minimum age to book
- All ages
- Availability
- Bookable today
- Runs on
- Every day
- Price range
- $523 to $730
- Hotel pickup
- No pickup, meet at start point
- Booked in 30 days
- 81
- Verdict
- Solid Choice
Who runs this experience
Operated by Harbour Air Ltd, who run 15 experiences we rank across 3 cities, with an average Outty Ranking of 59.5.
See everything Harbour Air Ltd runsWhy this scores 68
The Outty Ranking is a weighted composite. Here is how this experience performed on each component.
Vancouver ↔ Victoria Day Trip by Seaplane + Butchart Gardens: questions travelers ask
Practical detail on this experience, plus the wider planning questions for Vancouver.
How much does Vancouver ↔ Victoria Day Trip by Seaplane + Butchart Gardens cost?
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Prices start at $523 per person. The final price depends on the date, the time slot and the number of travelers, and peak weekends in Vancouver usually price higher than midweek mornings. Live pricing and remaining availability are confirmed on the booking screen before you pay.
How long does Vancouver ↔ Victoria Day Trip by Seaplane + Butchart Gardens take?
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Plan for about 6 hours from start to finish, not counting travel to the meeting point. Most travelers leave another 30 minutes on either side so the rest of the day in Vancouver is not rushed.
Is Vancouver ↔ Victoria Day Trip by Seaplane + Butchart Gardens worth it?
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It holds an Outty Ranking of 68 out of 100, which we label "Solid Choice". That score blends traveler sentiment (4.7/5 across 232 reviews), the depth of that review evidence, recent booking momentum, value for money against comparable most popular in Vancouver, and how flexible the cancellation terms are.
Can I cancel or reschedule Vancouver ↔ Victoria Day Trip by Seaplane + Butchart Gardens?
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Yes. Cancel free up to 24 hours before the start time for a full refund. Inside that window the booking is non-refundable, and no-shows are not refunded.
Is Vancouver ↔ Victoria Day Trip by Seaplane + Butchart Gardens suitable for kids and families?
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Yes, all ages are welcome. Families should still weigh the 6-hour running time, and strollers are easier on the earlier, quieter departures.
How far in advance should I book Vancouver ↔ Victoria Day Trip by Seaplane + Butchart Gardens?
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Around 81 people booked this in the last 30 days, so popular slots go early. Two to three weeks ahead is comfortable in shoulder season, while summer weekends and holidays in Vancouver can sell out a month out. Same-day spots do open up when other travelers cancel, so it is worth checking if you are already in town.
What should I bring or wear?
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Bring photo ID, your booking confirmation on your phone, a refillable water bottle and comfortable shoes. Dress for the weather in Vancouver and add a light layer if any part of the 6-hour experience runs outdoors or after sunset.
Where does Vancouver ↔ Victoria Day Trip by Seaplane + Butchart Gardens start and how do I get there?
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The exact meeting point and directions are on your voucher once you book, and they sit in central Vancouver within reach of public transport. Arrive 15 minutes early: late arrivals are treated as no-shows by most operators.
What are the best things to do in Vancouver?
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On Outty we rank every Vancouver experience on the same 0 to 100 scale, and alongside this one the highest scorers right now include The Grand Bicycle Tour of Vancouver, The Stanley Park Bicycle Tour, Vancouver City Sightseeing Tour: Capilano Suspension Bridge & Vancouver Lookout. The city page groups everything into most popular, highest reviewed, last minute and family-friendly so you can build a day around what actually delivers.
When is the best time to visit Vancouver?
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Booking patterns follow the same curve: prices and queues climb in peak weeks, while shoulder season gives you better availability on the top-ranked experiences and more room to change plans.
How many days do you need in Vancouver?
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Three full days covers the headline sights without sprinting. A workable rhythm is one anchor experience each morning, such as this one, an unhurried afternoon in a single neighborhood, then a food or nightlife booking in the evening. Five days lets you add a day trip outside the city.
Do I book through Outty or through the operator?
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Outty ranks and explains the experiences, then hands you to Viator to complete the booking with the operator directly. The price is the same as booking on Viator yourself, and Outty earns an affiliate commission on the referral, which is how the rankings stay free to read.
What is included in Vancouver ↔ Victoria Day Trip by Seaplane + Butchart Gardens?
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Included: All taxes, fees and handling charges; Admission to The Butchart Gardens; Sustainability fee; Return seaplane airfare between Vancouver and Victoria; and Self-guided tour of The Butchart Gardens at your own pace. Not included: Gratuities; Hotel pickup and drop off; Food, beverages and meals at Butchart Gardens or in Victoria; and Personal purchases and souvenirs at The Butchart Gardens. Always check the voucher for the final list before you travel.
Where is the meeting point for Vancouver ↔ Victoria Day Trip by Seaplane + Butchart Gardens?
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Vancouver Harbour Flight Centre Unit #1 - 1055 Canada Place, Vancouver, BC, V6C 0C3 The seaplane terminal is located at Burrard Landing in Coal Harbour. Parking is available at 1095 W Waterfront Rd, Vancouver, BC. Hotel pickup is not included, so plan your own transport and arrive 15 minutes early.
Will I get instant confirmation and a mobile ticket for Vancouver ↔ Victoria Day Trip by Seaplane + Butchart Gardens?
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Confirmation is sent by the operator after booking, usually within 48 hours; if it is not confirmed you are not charged. Mobile tickets are accepted, so you can show the voucher on your phone.
Is Vancouver ↔ Victoria Day Trip by Seaplane + Butchart Gardens wheelchair or stroller accessible?
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The operator notes: Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap; and A mobility assistance device, such as a wheelchair or cane, may be used by a passenger to. If accessibility is critical, contact the operator after booking to confirm arrangements for your date.
What happens to Vancouver ↔ Victoria Day Trip by Seaplane + Butchart Gardens if the weather is bad?
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This experience depends on good weather. If it is canceled because of poor weather, you are offered a different date or a full refund.
What do travelers say about Vancouver ↔ Victoria Day Trip by Seaplane + Butchart Gardens?
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Across 232 reviews averaging 4.7 out of 5, recurring themes include organization, the guide, photo opportunities. Pickup, timing, and logistics are described as running smoothly.
What booking options are available for Vancouver ↔ Victoria Day Trip by Seaplane + Butchart Gardens?
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There are 12 options to choose from, including Depart 9:30am/Return 5:00pm+, Depart 10:00am/Return 5:00pm+, Depart 9:20am/Return 5:00pm+, Depart 11:40am/Return 6:00pm+. Prices and start times differ by option, so compare them on the booking screen.
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