Explore Vancouver to Victoria with a Full-Day Ferry and City Tour

The Victoria BC Ferry Mile Zero 1 Day City Tour from Vancouver offers a convenient way to see some of British Columbia’s most iconic sights in one day. Priced at $181 per person, this tour lasts approximately 10 to 12 hours, making it ideal for travelers wanting an efficient yet comprehensive experience. The tour includes round-trip BC Ferry tickets and visits to Butchart Gardens, Victoria’s Chinatown, the Inner Harbour, and the Mile Zero Monument.

What sets this tour apart is its use of professional bilingual guides—speaking English, Mandarin, and Cantonese—who help make the trip educational and engaging. Despite some limitations during certain periods when attractions like Butchart Gardens are closed, the tour consistently receives positive feedback for its smooth logistics and well-organized itinerary. It’s well-suited to those eager to explore Victoria’s highlights with minimal planning.

Key Points

Full-day experience from Vancouver to Victoria with ferry rides and guided city tours
Includes all ferry tickets and visits to Butchart Gardens, Chinatown, and Mile Zero
Tour duration is 10 to 12 hours, suitable for a day trip
Bilingual guides enhance the experience, providing detailed commentary
Some attractions, such as Butchart Gardens, are temporarily closed during specific periods
No food or beverages included, so plan accordingly

For broader city exploration in Vancouver, we've covered these other tours

Vancouver to Victoria: Ferry Ride and Scenic Views

The tour begins with a 90-minute BC Ferry ride from Vancouver’s Swartz Bay Terminal to Victoria. The ferries are described as huge and very clean, making the crossing comfortable. During the voyage, travelers have the opportunity to keep an eye out for local wildlife and enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding waters.

This ferry ride is a highlight for many, as it offers a chance to relax and soak in the scenery between the two cities. The round-trip ferry ticket is included in the tour price, providing convenience and eliminating separate booking concerns.

Visiting the Butchart Gardens: An Iconic Flower Paradise

The Butchart Gardens is a major highlight of this tour, known for its perfectly manicured landscapes and hundreds of plant species. Visitors typically spend about 60 minutes exploring, wandering through lush floral displays and enjoying the tranquil atmosphere.

It’s important to note that the Gardens are closed from January 19 to February 2, 2025, during which time an alternative attraction, the Victoria Butterfly Gardens, is visited instead. While the Gardens are often praised for their beauty, some reviews mention that the attraction’s seasonality can affect the visit, so planning around the closure periods is advisable.

Discovering Victoria’s Chinatown and Inner Harbour

Next, the tour guides lead visitors through Victoria’s Chinatown, which holds the distinction of being Canada’s oldest Chinatown and the second oldest in North America. The area buzzes with cultural and entertainment venues, offering a taste of the city’s multicultural charm.

The Inner Harbour is a must-see photo spot with its long history dating back to First Nations use. The harbor’s beautiful scenery is on display for about 45 minutes, during which visitors can appreciate recreational vessels and small cruise boats navigating the waters.

The Significance of Mile Zero in Beacon Hill Park

A brief 10-minute stop at the Mile Zero Monument in Beacon Hill Park marks one of the symbolic starting points of the Trans-Canada Highway. Located in a picturesque setting, this spot is ideal for photos and understanding the highway’s historical importance on the Pacific Coast.

Since no admission fee is required, travelers can quickly appreciate the monument’s significance in Canadian infrastructure history.

While in Vancouver, here are other experiences we've covered

Returning to Vancouver via BC Ferries

The journey concludes with a second 90-minute ferry ride back to Vancouver, completing the round-trip. The return ferry is included, and the logistical organization ensures smooth transit back to the city.

Many reviews appreciate this part of the trip for its comfort and scenic value, making the return journey as enjoyable as the sightseeing in Victoria.

Optional Visits During Closure Periods

During certain times of the year, notably January 20 to February 2, 2025, the Butchart Gardens are temporarily closed. In these instances, the tour replaces the Gardens with the Victoria Butterfly Gardens, which is also included in the itinerary.

The Butterfly Gardens allow visitors to see a variety of butterflies and tropical species, keeping the tour’s core appeal intact even when the Gardens are unavailable.

Inclusions and Practical Details

This tour includes professional transportation, with the vehicle used based on the number of guests, and a professional bilingual driver-guide. The round-trip ferry tickets and admission to Butchart Gardens or Butterfly Gardens are part of the package.

It does not include food or beverages, so travelers should plan to bring snacks or meals. Parking is not available at the pick-up point, and tips are voluntary—a service fee of 15 Canadian dollars may be requested by the driver, as noted in some reviews.

Who Will Appreciate This Tour?

The 4.5-star rating out of 38 reviews indicates consistent satisfaction, especially for those who value organized logistics and guided commentary. The bilingual guides receive particular praise for their knowledge and helpfulness.

Travelers who enjoy scenic ferry rides, garden visits, and city highlights like Chinatown and Mile Zero will find this tour well-suited. It’s also beneficial for visitors who prefer a set schedule with included transportation and tickets, minimizing the hassle of planning each component separately.

Considerations and Limitations

While the tour is praised for its efficiency and comprehensive itinerary, some comments mention the service charge collected at the end of the day, which is not included in the initial price. Also, the pace can be fast, with only 60 minutes at each attraction, so those seeking a more leisurely visit might need additional time.

The seasonality of attractions like Butchart Gardens can affect the schedule, and attractions may be substituted during closures. The tour capacity is limited to 55 travelers, ensuring manageable groups but requiring advance booking.

The Sum Up: A Practical Day Trip to Victoria

This Victoria BC Ferry Mile Zero 1 Day City Tour offers a convenient, well-organized way to explore Victoria’s top sights in a single day. With round-trip ferry tickets, guided commentary, and key attractions like Butchart Gardens, Chinatown, and the Mile Zero Monument, it provides good value for $181.

Travelers interested in efficient sightseeing with professional guides and scenic ferry rides will find this tour rewarding. While some attractions are seasonal, the inclusion of alternative spots like Butterfly Gardens ensures the experience remains engaging year-round.

This tour suits those wanting a comprehensive yet manageable day trip from Vancouver, especially if they appreciate guided insights and scenic views. It is a solid choice for visitors seeking an organized, hassle-free exploration of Victoria’s highlights.

Ready to Book?

Victoria BC Ferry Mile Zero 1 Day City Tour from Vancouver

4.5

(38)

“It ran smoothly and efficiently with Kim as the trip guide.She let us know ahead of time the plan and what to expect. We were able to cover a lot …”

— Helen H, Mar 2025

Frequently Asked Questions

Does the tour include transportation between Vancouver and Victoria?
Yes, round-trip BC Ferry tickets are included, covering the ferry rides between Vancouver’s Swartz Bay Terminal and Victoria.

How long is the ferry ride?
Each ferry ride lasts approximately 90 minutes, providing ample time to relax and enjoy the scenery.

Are all attractions open during the tour?
Most attractions are included in the schedule, but Butchart Gardens are temporarily closed from January 19 to February 2, 2025, during which the Butterfly Gardens are visited instead.

Is food included in the tour?
No, food and beverages are not included, so it’s advisable to bring snacks or plan for meals separately.

What languages do the guides speak?
The guides are bilingual, speaking English, Mandarin, and Cantonese.

Can children participate?
Yes, most travelers can participate, but children under 18 must be accompanied by an adult.

Is the tour accessible for all travelers?
While specific accessibility details are not provided, most travelers most likely can participate, but check with the supplier for personal needs.

What is the cancellation policy?
Cancellation is free up to 24 hours before the scheduled start, with a full refund if canceled within that window.

Are tips included?
No, tips are voluntary and typically additional. A service fee of 15 Canadian dollars may be requested at the end of the tour.

How many people can join this tour?
The tour has a maximum capacity of 55 travelers, ensuring a comfortable group size.

Is there a specific dress code or physical requirement?
No specific dress code is mentioned, but comfortable clothing and footwear are recommended for walking and outdoor stops.

Where do I meet for the tour?
The exact meeting point is near public transportation, but specific details should be confirmed during booking.