Victoria & Butchard Gardens Private Tour from Vancouver

Planning a trip from Vancouver to Victoria? This private tour offers a full day of exploration, blending scenic ferry rides, stunning gardens, and city sights. As someone who’s seen a lot of such trips, I’ll share what makes this experience worthwhile—and where it might fall short.

What I really appreciate about this tour are the personalized attention you get with a private guide and the fantastic views during the ferry ride. Plus, the chance to wander through the world-famous Butchart Gardens is a real highlight. On the flip side, an important consideration is that the tour isn’t suited for travelers with mobility challenges or those needing wheelchair accessibility.

This tour is ideal for those who want a comprehensive, relaxed day discovering Victoria’s key attractions with a knowledgeable guide. It’s especially suited for travelers craving a more intimate experience rather than a large group hustle.

Key Points

• Private experience ensures personalized attention and flexible pacing.
• Spectacular ferry ride offers chances to spot local marine life and enjoy fresh sea air.
• Butchart Gardens is a major highlight, with stunning floral displays and peaceful pathways.
• City tour includes iconic sights like the BC Parliament Building, Empress Hotel, and Craigdarroch Castle.
• Convenience of hotel pick-up and drop-off simplifies the day.
• Price point reflects a premium experience with private transportation and guided commentary.

You can check availability for your dates here:

What to Expect on This Victoria Day Trip

This private tour is crafted for those who want a laid-back but thorough look at Victoria, without the chaos of crowded tour buses. From start to finish, you’re in a luxury Mercedes Benz Sprinter van, which makes for a comfortable ride and a touch of class.

The day kicks off with complimentary hotel pickup in Vancouver. Once you’re en route to Tsawwassen, the ferry ride begins. Spend around 1.5 hours on the water, cruising through the Gulf Islands. This part of the journey is where you’ll really feel the sense of adventure and tranquility. Keep your eyes peeled—many travelers report seeing whales, dolphins, and sea lions during the crossing, adding a lively touch to the scenic views.

The ferry offers open-air decks, perfect for feeling the wind and taking photos. It’s a calming, almost meditative start to your day, especially if you like watching the sea and wildlife.

Exploring Butchart Gardens

Arriving in Victoria, your first stop is the iconic Butchart Gardens. Spanning 55 acres, this floral haven is a feast for the senses. We loved the way the gardens are thoughtfully laid out, with each area offering something different—like the famous rose garden and sunken garden. The lush greenery, colorful blooms, and peaceful pathways make it an ideal spot to linger for a while.

A highlight for many visitors is the high tea at the garden’s restaurant, which is served daily. Whether you’re a tea lover or just enjoy a good sit-down with pretty views, it’s a lovely way to rest and savor the moment. Entrance tickets are included in the tour, so no surprises there.

Scenic Drive Through Victoria

After soaking in the gardens, the tour continues with a scenic drive along the ocean. You’ll pass by the University of Victoria, Oak Bay, and the Uplands, each with their own charm. This route offers plenty of photo ops and a chance to see different parts of the city from a comfortable vehicle.

Key landmarks like Beacon Hill Park, Mile 0, and the BC Parliament Building are on your list. The guide will share interesting tidbits about Victoria’s history and architecture, making the tour educational as well as visually pleasing. Expect to explore downtown Victoria at your leisure, with opportunities to browse shops, grab a snack, or simply enjoy the lively street scene.

Exploring Victoria’s Highlights

• The BC Parliament Building is impressive, especially if you’re into architecture or politics.
• The Fairmont Empress Hotel is a picture-perfect landmark, symbolizing Victoria’s elegance.
• Chinatown, one of the oldest in North America, offers a glimpse into the city’s multicultural past.
• The Craigdarroch Castle is a stately historic home that gives you insight into Victoria’s early 20th-century grandeur.

The tour’s flexibility allows you to enjoy these sights at your own pace, making it ideal for those who prefer a relaxed exploration rather than a rushed guided walk.

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Food and Time to Relax

While lunch isn’t included, the tour gives you enough free time to find a cozy café or sit down for a meal in downtown Victoria. Many travelers find that exploring the city’s eateries or grabbing a quick bite fits well into the schedule.

Returning to Vancouver

Later in the day, your guide will escort you back to the ferry for the return trip. The boat ride offers one last chance to take in the stunning coastal scenery and perhaps spot more wildlife. Once back in Tsawwassen, you’ll be driven back to your Vancouver hotel, ending a full day of sightseeing.

The Value of This Tour

At $1,112 per person, the price reflects the private nature of the trip, the luxury transportation, and the inclusion of ferry and garden tickets. While that’s on the higher side for a day trip, many guests feel the personalized service, comfort, and curated experience justify the cost. One reviewer even said, “Bobby was a knowledgeable and thoughtful guide. We had a wonderful time.” That kind of personable guidance adds a lot to the experience.

Who Will Love This Experience?

This tour is perfect for travelers who value comfort, privacy, and a flexible itinerary. If you’re traveling with a partner, family, or a small group who appreciates a tailored day out, this is a great choice. It’s also well-suited for those who want to see the highlights without the hassle of navigating on their own.

However, if you’re looking for an adventure that’s wheelchair accessible or has a more casual, self-guided feel, this tour might not be the best fit. The tour isn’t recommended for those with mobility issues, and the ferry reservation depends on availability.

FAQs

Is this a private tour?
Yes, it’s designed exclusively for your group, with a private guide and private transportation, ensuring a personalized experience.

What’s included in the price?
The tour includes your private guide, transportation in a Mercedes Benz Sprinter van, ferry rides to and from Victoria, entrance tickets to Butchart Gardens, bottled water, and live commentary in English.

Are meals included?
No, meals are not included, but you’ll have ample time in Victoria to find lunch or a snack on your own.

Is this tour suitable for children?
The tour is not allowed for unaccompanied minors. Children aged 19 and under must be with an adult, and it’s not suitable for travelers with mobility challenges or medical conditions.

How long is the ferry ride?
The ferry ride across the Gulf Islands lasts around 1.5 hours, offering great views and wildlife spotting opportunities.

What if I need to cancel?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing some flexibility if your plans change.

Final Thoughts

If you’re after a well-rounded, comfortable way to see Victoria from Vancouver, this private tour ticks a lot of boxes. It offers a good balance of scenic travel, iconic gardens, and city highlights—all delivered with a personal touch. The guided commentary and private setting make it feel more like a day spent with a knowledgeable friend, not just another group tour.

This experience is especially suited for those who want a relaxed, curated day with all the logistics handled. It’s a great way to maximize your time and enjoy Victoria’s top sights without feeling rushed or crowded. If you’re comfortable with the price, it’s a wonderful way to make your Vancouver-to-Victoria trip memorable and personalized.

Happy exploring!

You can check availability for your dates here: