Pickle Pub Crawl: Ferry Rides and Appetizers

Discover the Charm of Victoria’s Waterfront with the Pickle Pub Crawl

The Pickle Pub Crawl: Ferry Rides and Appetizers offers a lively way to experience Victoria’s waterfront and vibrant local scene. For $52 per person, this 3-hour tour combines scenic ferry rides, visits to four hand-picked pubs, and free appetizers with every drink purchase. It’s a fantastic choice for those looking to explore Victoria like a local, enjoy waterfront views, and meet new people, all in a relaxed, social setting.

Starting at the 10 Acres Commons on Victoria’s waterfront, the tour is led by a knowledgeable guide who shares stories about the city’s culture and history. Although it’s best suited for adults aged 19 and over, this tour offers a fun mix of sightseeing, good drinks, and great company, making it ideal for casual travelers, groups celebrating special occasions, or anyone eager to see Victoria from a fresh perspective.

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Key Points

• Waterfront pub crawl on Victoria’s scenic harbor
• Includes 2 ferry rides between four carefully chosen venues
• Enjoy free appetizers with each drink purchase
• Led by a friendly, knowledgeable guide
• Tour lasts 3 hours in the afternoon, perfect for a relaxed outing
• Ideal for 19+ guests looking for a social, water-based experience

Starting Point at 10 Acres Commons on Victoria’s Waterfront

The tour begins inside 10 Acres Commons, an industrial-chic gastro pub situated on Victoria’s harbor. Here, guests meet the guide and get ready for an engaging journey across the city’s waterfront. The meeting spot is at the north east corner of Government St and Humboldt Street, at the Belmont Building, with the guide easily recognizable in a red vest.

From this starting point, the tour quickly sets the tone for a casual, fun outing. The bustling waterfront location offers an immediate taste of Victoria’s lively atmosphere, and the guide provides initial insights into the city’s culture. The included ferry rides allow guests to avoid walking or driving, making for a more comfortable experience that emphasizes sightseeing and socializing.

Scenic Ferry Rides Over Victoria’s Harbor

A key feature of this tour is the two ferry rides that connect the four pub stops. These boats glide smoothly over Victoria’s harbor, offering breathtaking views of the city’s skyline, mountains, and iconic landmarks. The ferry rides are short but memorable, giving guests a chance to enjoy the fresh air and picturesque scenery as they move between venues.

Because the ferry rides are included in the tour, there’s no need to worry about transportation or parking — just sit back and soak in the views. The water taxis add a unique element to the experience, setting this pub crawl apart from typical land-based tours and giving a true sense of Victoria’s coastal charm.

Hand-Picked Waterfront Venues with Local Vibe

The tour visits four carefully selected watering holes, each offering a distinct atmosphere and drink selection. While the specific venues are not named, reviews highlight that the stops provide good drink prices and a variety of Victoria-inspired cocktails. These venues are praised for their friendly staff and relaxed vibe, making it easy to mingle with fellow guests.

One notable aspect is the tour’s focus on showcasing Victoria’s local culture, with guides sharing stories about each venue’s history and significance. Guests often appreciate the chance to explore hidden gems along the harbor that are not in typical tourist guides, providing an authentic taste of the city’s waterfront life.

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The Joy of Free Appetizers with Every Drink

A highlight of this experience is the inclusion of free appetizers, which come with the purchase of each drink. The selection is said to be delicious, complementing the local beers and cocktails on offer. This feature makes the tour an excellent value, as it allows guests to enjoy tasty snacks without extra cost, all while soaking in the waterfront views.

Guests can expect bite-sized treats that enhance the drinking experience, creating a lively, social atmosphere. The appetizers help balance out the evening, ensuring everyone stays fueled and happy as the tour progresses.

Engaging and Knowledgeable Guides Leading the Way

The tour is led by a friendly, energetic guide who is well-versed in Victoria’s history and culture. Multiple reviews praise guides like Jack, Roberto, and Emily for their knowledge, sense of humor, and ability to keep the group entertained. The guides are adept at balancing storytelling with fun, making the tour feel personable and engaging.

Guides also ensure the group stays on schedule, manage the ferry logistics smoothly, and provide insights that deepen the experience. Their approachable manner helps foster a friendly atmosphere, encouraging guests to chat, share stories, and make new friends.

Pacing and Group Size for a Relaxed Experience

This tour lasts about three hours, usually in the afternoon, providing an ideal window for a leisurely outing. The maximum capacity is 11 guests, which helps maintain an intimate, friendly environment. If fewer than four guests book, the tour is either re-scheduled or refunded, ensuring a small-group experience.

The moderate pace means guests can enjoy each venue, chat comfortably, and savor the appetizers without feeling rushed. The inclusion of ferry rides also breaks up the walking, making this a great option for those who prefer a more relaxed, water-based adventure.

Practicalities: Meeting Location and Age Restrictions

Meeting at the north east corner of Government Street and Humboldt Street, the tour begins at 10 Acres Commons, a popular waterfront restaurant. Guests are advised to bring ID for alcohol consumption, as Canada’s drinking age is 19+.

The tour operates rain or shine, so appropriate clothing is recommended. It is not suitable for pregnant women or those under 19 years of age. The group size is limited, ensuring a more personalized experience, and booking is flexible with full refunds available if canceled at least 24 hours in advance.

Value for Money and Overall Impression

At $52 per person, this tour offers excellent value given the inclusion of ferry rides, four pub visits, a guide, and free appetizers. The positive reviews highlight great guides, beautiful views, and reasonable drink prices as key benefits. Many guests consider this one of the highlight activities of their visit to Victoria.

While it doesn’t include drinks themselves, the overall experience, scenic travel, and social vibe make it a worthwhile investment for those seeking a relaxed yet lively way to explore Victoria’s waterfront.

Who Will Find This Tour Most Enjoyable?

This pub crawl suits those who enjoy waterfront scenery, casual social outings, and local culture. It’s perfect for travelers wanting a less conventional tour that combines scenic ferry rides with authentic Victorian pub experiences. The small group size and knowledgeable guides make it a friendly activity for first-timers or those celebrating special occasions.

However, it’s important to be comfortable with alcohol consumption and bring valid ID. The tour runs rain or shine, so prepare for variable weather if necessary.

Pickle Pub Crawl: Victoria’s Fun Water-Based Pub Experience

The Pickle Pub Crawl offers a unique way to discover Victoria’s waterfront, blending scenic boat rides with lively pub stops and tasty bites. Its small-group format and friendly guides ensure a personalized experience, while the included ferry rides set this tour apart from typical pub crawls.

The strong reviews and high rating of 4.8/5 from 49 reviews underscore its popularity and quality. If you’re looking for a relaxed, social, and scenic way to explore Victoria’s harbor, this tour delivers a memorable afternoon that combines local charm with fun water transport.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for all ages?
No, it is designed for guests aged 19 and over, with valid ID required to purchase drinks.

What is included in the price?
The tour includes a guide, pub crawl to four venues, two harbor ferry rides, and free appetizers with each drink.

Are drinks included?
No, drinks are not included; guests purchase their own beverages at the venues.

Where does the tour start?
The tour begins at 10 Acres Commons, located at the north east corner of Government Street and Humboldt Street.

How long does the tour last?
The entire experience lasts approximately 3 hours.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, full refunds are available if canceled 24 hours in advance.

Is the tour rain or shine?
Yes, it runs rain or shine, so dress accordingly.

What makes this tour stand out?
The scenic ferry rides, free appetizers, and guided local insights create a relaxed, engaging atmosphere that offers a different perspective of Victoria.

How many guests typically join?
The maximum is 11 guests, ensuring an intimate experience.

Are guides responsible and knowledgeable?
Yes, guides like Jack, Roberto, and Emily are praised for their knowledge, friendly manner, and ability to keep the group entertained.

Can I do this tour if I don’t drink alcohol?
Since it involves purchasing drinks to enjoy the appetizers, it’s best suited for those comfortable with alcohol consumption, as ID is required.

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