Victoria Butchart Gardens & Gulf Island Ferry tour from Vancouver
Traveler rating
4.1/5
Based on 31 traveler reviews. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.
Quick answer
Is Victoria Butchart Gardens & Gulf Island Ferry tour from Vancouver worth booking?
Victoria Butchart Gardens & Gulf Island Ferry tour from Vancouver is a 13-hour experience in Vancouver, Canada, from $176 per person. It scores 58 out of 100 on the Outty Ranking, which we label “Worth a Look”, based on a 4.1/5 rating across 31 reviews. Cancellation is free up to 24 hours before the start time. Same-day spots are currently showing.
- Outty Ranking
- 58 / 100
- Rating
- 4.1/5 (31)
- Duration
- 13 hours
- From
- $176 per person
Embark on an unforgettable full-day tour through British Columbia’s most iconic sights, starting with a scenic ferry ride from Vancouver through the Gulf Islands to Vancouver Island. Along the way, keep an eye out for se
What you get
About this experience
Embark on an unforgettable full-day tour through British Columbia’s most iconic sights, starting with a scenic ferry ride from Vancouver through the Gulf Islands to Vancouver Island. Along the way, keep an eye out for seals and whales as you cross the Georgia Strait. Upon arrival, visit the world-famous Butchart Gardens, where you’ll spend two hours exploring 50 acres of vibrant, year-round blooms in one of the world’s premier floral show gardens. Next, journey through historic Chinatown and the picturesque Inner Harbour on your way to downtown Victoria, BC’s capital city. Enjoy free time to explore Victoria’s top attractions, including the iconic Empress Hotel, the Royal BC Museum, and the BC Legislature. Along the way, your expert guide will share fascinating insights into the region’s rich history and cultural heritage. Book this unforgettable adventure today and experience the perfect blend of natural beauty and cultural charm!
What's included
Included
- Admission fees
- Entrance fees
- Brochure with Map and Route
- Surcharges on fuel
- Parking fees
- Live Fully Guided Commentary
Not included
- Tea and coffee
- Gratuities
- Meals
What you'll see and do
Vancouver
Our accredited guide will meet you at the pickup location and accompany you to the BC Ferries terminal.
BC Ferries is the primary mode of transportation between Vancouver and Victoria. During the journey, you’ll enjoy stunning coastal views of the scenic Gulf Islands, with forested shorelines and tranquil waters. Keep an eye out for wildlife—seagulls often soar above the vessel, and if you're lucky, you might even spot sea lions lounging on rocky outcrops or swimming nearby. Onboard, BC Ferries offers a range of services to make your trip more enjoyable, including cafes, gift shops, comfortable seating areas, and outdoor decks where you can take in the fresh ocean air.
90 minutes here · Admission included
The Butchart Gardens
Step into a floral wonderland at The Butchart Gardens, one of Victoria’s most iconic attractions. Spanning over 55 acres of beautifully manicured landscapes, the gardens feature five distinct areas, including the enchanting Sunken Garden, vibrant Rose Garden, and tranquil Japanese Garden. Meander along winding paths, relax by serene fountains, and take in the seasonal blooms that delight visitors year-round. The peaceful drive through the countryside only adds to the charm of this unforgettable botanical experience.
120 minutes here · Admission included
Victoria
Located on the southern tip of Vancouver Island, Victoria is a city that blends old-world elegance with West Coast charm. As British Columbia’s capital, it offers a unique mix of colonial architecture, lush gardens, and a laid-back coastal lifestyle. With its mild climate and walkable downtown, Victoria is perfect for a day of relaxed exploration, culture, and scenic beauty.
Inner Harbour
One of Victoria’s most iconic highlights is the Inner Harbour—a picturesque waterfront hub surrounded by historic landmarks. Watch boats glide across the water, visit charming local shops, or take in views of the stately Fairmont Empress Hotel and the grand BC Legislature Buildings. Street performers, food vendors, and waterfront cafés bring the area to life, making it a must-see spot for first-time visitors and returning travelers alike.
120 minutes here
Enjoy a peaceful return journey aboard the BC Ferry to Vancouver. Watch the sun dip below the horizon, casting golden light over the Gulf Islands and sparkling waters. The gentle ocean breeze, soft evening glow, and stunning coastal views create a calm, romantic atmosphere—perfect for reflecting on a day well spent.
90 minutes here · Admission included
Vancouver
Welcome back to Vancouver. Transfer back to your original pickup location or designated downtown drop-off point. Sit back and relax as we conclude the day’s journey—thank you for joining us!
Where it starts and ends
Meeting point
Vancouver
We will pick you up at 07:05 AM from the formal starting point 909 W. Cordova St, Vancouver, BC V6C 0A7. The pickup zone is in front of Hard Bean Brunch's white building.
Hotel pickup
Pickup is available for selected locations. Pickup begins about 30 minutes before departure.
Ends at
We will pick you up at 07:05 AM from the formal starting point 909 W. Cordova St, Vancouver, BC V6C 0A7. The pickup zone is in front of Hard Bean Brunch's white building.
Options you can book
Victoria Full Day Tour
Pickup included
Victoria Butchart + HoHo Pass
Victoria Butchart + HoHo Pass: Victoria & Butchart Day Tour from Vancouver with Vancouver Hop On/Off Trolley Tour Day Pass. Valid over 2 consecutive days.
Before you book
- Cancellation
- For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
- Languages
- en
- Ticket
- Mobile Only
- Runs on
- Every day
- Group size
- Up to 15 travelers per booking
- Operated by
- The Great Canadian Trolley Co. - Gray Line Vancouver
Know before you go
- Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
- Service animals allowed
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Photos
What travelers are saying
Outty’s summary of the themes that recur across 31 traveler reviews. Written by us, not quoted from reviewers.
The guide
5 mentionsTravelers single out the guide as the reason the experience works.
Knowledge and storytelling
2 mentionsReviewers describe the commentary as informative rather than scripted.
Photo opportunities
2 mentionsThe views and photo stops come up again and again.
Food and drink
2 mentionsThe tastings and food stops are a highlight for most reviewers.
Pace and timing
2 mentionsSeveral reviewers comment on how the schedule is paced.
Traveler reviews
31 verified traveler reviews for Victoria Butchart Gardens & Gulf Island Ferry tour from Vancouver. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.
A truly epic experience from start to finish
The gardens were stunning, and the ferry ride added a wonderfully romantic touch to the tour. It was a relaxing and memorable way to explore the area, and we would happily recommend it to others.
via Tripadvisor
Gardens are amazing but...
Gardens are amazing but the whole trip is very long. Start to finish it was 13.5 hours. We waited for someone who didn’t show and we missed our ferry and had our Victoria time cut short by an hour. Be prepared for lots of travel time.
via Viator
Select a shorter version.
It is way to long. Look for a Butchart Gardens tour only, or a Victoria only tour. We left at 7am, drove an hour to the ferry, 1.5hrs on the ferry, 50 minutes to China Town (a wasted stop - dont do this), 20 minutes to Victoria which we only had 60 minutes to eat lunch and walk around. Never really saw much. Then on to Butchart Gardens arriving at 2pm. 2 hours spent in the Gardens then on the bus at 4pm. Arriving at the ferry terminal at 4:30pm. We had a 6pm reservation for the ferry so had to wait. Arriving back at our hotel after 8pm. The tour guide Jay was good, no complaints except for the other travelers who can't follow instructions on when to be back on the bus. This was a major inconvenience.
via Viator
Such beauty!
Was so happy we took that tour. The gardens were just beautiful. So refreshing to be in nature and you know they really took care of the place. The ferry ride made this tour so convenient. Definitely coming back.
via Tripadvisor
So many beautiful...
So many beautiful flowers! The landscape is gorgeous as you walk the trails from one beautiful spot to another. Breath taking! Would definitely recommend, and if in the area would visit agay
via Viator
Good to know
- Duration
- 13 hours
- Free cancellation
- Up to 24h before
- Minimum age to book
- All ages
- Availability
- Bookable today
- Runs on
- Every day
- Price range
- $176 to $298
- Hotel pickup
- Available for selected locations
- Booked in 30 days
- 11
- Verdict
- Worth a Look
Who runs this experience
Operated by The Great Canadian Trolley Co. - Gray Line Vancouver, who run 8 experiences we rank across 2 cities, with an average Outty Ranking of 61.2.
See everything The Great Canadian Trolley Co. - Gray Line Vancouver runsWhy this scores 58
The Outty Ranking is a weighted composite. Here is how this experience performed on each component.
Victoria Butchart Gardens & Gulf Island Ferry tour from Vancouver: questions travelers ask
Practical detail on this experience, plus the wider planning questions for Vancouver.
How much does Victoria Butchart Gardens & Gulf Island Ferry tour from Vancouver cost?
+
Prices start at $176 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 Victoria Butchart Gardens & Gulf Island Ferry tour from Vancouver take?
+
Plan for about 13 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 Victoria Butchart Gardens & Gulf Island Ferry tour from Vancouver worth it?
+
It holds an Outty Ranking of 58 out of 100, which we label "Worth a Look". That score blends traveler sentiment (4.1/5 across 31 reviews), the depth of that review evidence, recent booking momentum, value for money against comparable last minute in Vancouver, and how flexible the cancellation terms are.
Can I cancel or reschedule Victoria Butchart Gardens & Gulf Island Ferry tour from Vancouver?
+
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 Victoria Butchart Gardens & Gulf Island Ferry tour from Vancouver suitable for kids and families?
+
Yes, all ages are welcome. Families should still weigh the 13-hour running time, and strollers are easier on the earlier, quieter departures.
How far in advance should I book Victoria Butchart Gardens & Gulf Island Ferry tour from Vancouver?
+
Around 11 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?
+
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 13-hour experience runs outdoors or after sunset.
Where does Victoria Butchart Gardens & Gulf Island Ferry tour from Vancouver start and how do I get there?
+
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?
+
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, Whistler, Sea to Sky Gondola, & Shannon Falls Tour from Vancouver, 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?
+
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?
+
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?
+
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.
Ready to lock in your spot?
Pick a date, choose your group, and see the exact price for Victoria Butchart Gardens & Gulf Island Ferry tour from Vancouver.
Pick your date
