Victoria Island Break - 3 Days

Vancouver - Victoria. We depart downtown Vancouver at 9.15am and sail through the scenic Gulf Islands, a sheltered stretch of water known for its forested islets and coastal views.

On arrival on Vancouver Island, we visit the renowned Butchart Gardens. Once a limestone quarry over 100 years ago, the site has been transformed into an impressive display garden, including the striking Sunken Garden at its heart.

We then arrive in Victoria and set out on a walking tour of the city’s charming downtown. Highlights include Mile 0, Ogden Point, the iconic Empress Hotel and Canada’s oldest Chinatown, where we explore the famously narrow Fan Tan Alley and browse the local shops.

After checking into our hotel, you have free time to explore at your own pace. Our guide is on hand with recommendations for the best restaurants, popular breweries, independent shops and hidden gems. The evening is at leisure.

Today we spend a full day in Victoria. You may wish to join one of several optional experiences, including whale watching in the Salish Sea, traditional High Tea at the Empress Hotel, a scenic seaplane flight, a guided food tour or a visit to the Royal BC Museum, which brings British Columbia’s history and Indigenous cultures to life.

Victoria - Nanaimo - Vancouver. We depart Victoria and travel north along the Malahat Highway, where we enjoy sweeping views across the Southern Gulf Islands.

We stop at the Malahat SkyWalk, Vancouver Island’s newest outdoor attraction. We follow a 600 metre elevated walkway through arbutus and Douglas fir forest, leading to a 10 storey spiral tower lookout - the first of its kind in British Columbia. From 250 metres above sea level, we take in panoramic views across islands, inlets, fjords, forests and mountains stretching into two countries.

In Duncan, known as the City of Totems, we pause for a short visit to see the collection of carved totem poles throughout the town. We recommend a stop at Judy Hill Gallery, where you can browse authentic hand crafted Cowichan sweaters and Pacific Northwest Coast Indigenous art.

We continue to Nanaimo for a stroll along the harbourfront. While here, you may wish to try a Nanaimo Bar - the city’s famous layered chocolate and custard dessert.

We then check in for the ferry back to Vancouver, arriving in downtown Vancouver at approximately 6.30pm, depending on traffic.