Private Victoria Full Day Tour from Vancouver

Exploring Vancouver and Victoria in One Day: A Close Look at the Private Full-Day Tour

If you’re dreaming of a day trip that captures the essence of Vancouver and its charming neighbor, Victoria, this private full-day tour might be on your radar. While we haven’t personally taken this specific trip, it’s designed to offer a comprehensive experience with personalized touches—perfect if you prefer a more tailored adventure.

What we really appreciate about this tour is its flexibility and the mix of scenic beauty with cultural stops. The ferry ride through the Gulf Islands offers breathtaking views that often get overlooked in more rushed day trips. Plus, visiting the iconic Butchart Gardens is a definite highlight, especially for flower lovers or anyone who enjoys a peaceful walk among vibrant blooms.

However, a key consideration is the price—at over $1,400 per person, this isn’t a budget option. It’s worth weighing the value of the included experiences against other tours or solo planning. This tour suits travelers who value comfort, convenience, and a curated experience and who don’t mind splurging a bit for a memorable day out. It might also appeal to those traveling in a group, making the cost more manageable per person.

Key Points

• Personalized Private Experience: You’ll be traveling in either a luxury sedan, SUV, or executive van, ensuring comfort and exclusivity.
• All-Inclusive Pricing: The fee covers ferry tickets, admission to Butchart Gardens, and taxes, making it easier to budget without surprises.
• Flexible Free Time in Victoria: You get about 1.5 hours to explore Victoria’s downtown, giving you options like high tea, museums, or just strolling.
• Beautiful Scenic Highlights: Includes classic spots like Mile Zero and Beacon Hill Park, plus the stunning ferry ride with coastal mountain views.
• Potential for Customization: Since it’s a private tour, there’s room for personalized interests—ask your guide about other stops on the day.
• Limited Meal Options: Lunch is at a Chinatown restaurant, but no specific dining is included, so you may want to budget extra for food.

A Deep Dive into the Itinerary

Starting early at 7:00 am, this tour is crafted to maximize your day, especially with a private setup that can adapt to your pace. The first stop is the Tsawwassen Ferry Terminal, where you board a ferry to Vancouver Island. The ferry journey lasts about an hour and 35 minutes, offering sweeping views of coastal mountains, islands, and waterways. It’s the kind of ride that feels more like part of the adventure rather than just transportation—think of it as a moving postcard.

Once on Vancouver Island, your first major highlight is the Butchart Gardens. These 55 acres of meticulously curated floral displays are renowned worldwide. We love how the gardens change with the seasons, offering everything from vibrant summer blooms to quiet winter scenes. Expect about 1.5 hours here, which is enough time to wander through themed sections and take plenty of photos. As one reviewer put it, “the floral displays are truly spectacular, and the landscaping is impeccable.”

Next, you’ll explore Victoria’s Chinatown, the oldest in Canada and the second oldest in North America after San Francisco. It’s a compact but historically rich neighborhood, perfect for a quick stroll and lunch. Your guide will recommend a signature restaurant, where you can enjoy a meal at your own expense. The Chinatown area often inspires comments like “delicious food and lively atmosphere,” making it a good break from sightseeing.

After lunch, the tour offers free time in Victoria’s downtown. This is your chance to explore at your own pace—visit the Royal BC Museum, take a leisurely walk around the Inner Harbour, or enjoy a traditional high tea at the Fairmont Empress Hotel. The 1.5-hour window is designed to give you flexibility; some travelers have enjoyed just soaking in the harbor views, while others have visited mini attractions like Miniature World or snapped photos at iconic spots.

Before heading back, the tour stops at Mile Zero, the starting point of the Trans-Canada Highway. It’s a quick but meaningful photo opportunity, especially if you’re into road trip lore. Then, a short drive brings you to Beacon Hill Park, where you can enjoy scenic views and possibly spot some local wildlife from the lookout—another favorite spot for travelers seeking a peaceful pause.

Finally, you’ll return to the Swartz Bay Ferry Terminal for your ferry ride back to Vancouver, closing the loop on a day packed with diverse experiences.

What’s the Real Value?

This tour’s price tag might seem steep to some, but the inclusive nature of the ticket—covering ferry fares, entrance fees, and taxes—adds convenience and peace of mind. Traveling privately means fewer crowds and more flexibility, which many travelers appreciate after the sometimes hectic group tours.

The highlight, of course, is the combination of a scenic ferry crossing and the chance to see Victoria’s gardens and historic sites in one day. For garden lovers or those seeking a luxurious, personalized experience, it’s a compelling option. For families or groups who enjoy a curated, stress-free day with a dedicated guide, it can be especially appealing.

We’ve seen reviews mentioning that the ferry ride offers “amazing views of the coastal mountains,” making the journey part of the experience rather than just transit. The gardens are often described as “spectacular,” and the opportunity to enjoy high tea or explore Victoria’s historic streets adds a cultural dimension that makes the trip feel well-rounded.

However, it’s worth noting that the price per person is high, especially for solo travelers or those on a tighter budget. The tour’s value depends on how much you prioritize comfort, exclusivity, and a tailored experience over cheaper, self-guided options.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This private full-day tour is best suited for travelers who want a hassle-free, personalized day trip from Vancouver. If you’re traveling with a group and prefer private transportation, it becomes even more attractive. Garden lovers, history buffs, or those wanting to indulge in a little luxury (like high tea at the Empress) will likely find this experience worthwhile.

It’s also a good choice for visitors who appreciate scenic ferry rides and want to see Victoria’s highlights with minimal planning. If you’re traveling with someone who prefers a more relaxed pace or has specific interests in gardens or cultural sites, this tour’s flexibility makes it a decent fit.

On the flip side, if you’re on a tight budget or prefer a more active, independent exploration, this tour might feel a bit restrictive or costly. The included free time in Victoria is enough for a quick visit but doesn’t allow for deep dives into any one area.

FAQs

Is pick-up included in the tour?
Yes, the tour offers pickup from your hotel or anywhere within Vancouver city limits, making start logistics simple.

How long is the ferry ride?
The ferry from Tsawwassen to Swartz Bay lasts about 1 hour and 35 minutes, offering scenic views worth enjoying.

Are admission fees included?
Yes, the tour includes admission to Butchart Gardens and the BC Ferries fee, among other costs.

Can I customize the itinerary?
Since it’s a private tour, there’s room for some flexibility. You can ask your guide about other potential stops or interests.

Is this tour suitable for families?
The tour is generally suitable for most travelers, but it’s not specifically marketed as family-friendly. Consider your children’s interests and patience for a long day.

What is the duration of the tour?
It lasts approximately 13 hours, starting early at 7:00 am and returning in the evening.

What’s the best way to dress for this tour?
Bring layers—weather can change quickly, especially on the ferry. Comfortable shoes, a camera, and perhaps an umbrella are good ideas.

Are meals included?
No, meals are at your own expense, but a recommended lunch spot is provided in Chinatown.

What’s the cancellation policy?
You can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours before the tour, which offers some peace of mind if plans change unexpectedly.

Final Thoughts

This private Victoria full-day tour offers a carefully curated experience that combines scenic beauty, cultural exploration, and comfort. It’s a particularly good choice if you value hassle-free logistics, personalized attention, and a luxurious touch. While the cost might be a barrier for some, the inclusion of ferry fares, garden admission, and the private setting can justify the price for those seeking a seamless, memorable day.

If you’re craving an experience that balances natural beauty with cultural highlights, and you’re willing to invest in a more exclusive tour, this could be your ideal day trip from Vancouver. Just keep in mind that a full day out means early mornings and a packed schedule—so be prepared to soak it all in and enjoy the ride.

Note: Remember to book in advance, as this experience is most often booked 5 days ahead, and availability can fill quickly during peak seasons.