Victoria Craft Brewery Tour

Vibrant Victoria Craft Beer Experience for $89.08

The Victoria Craft Brewery Tour offers a fun and relaxed way to explore some of the city’s best craft breweries without the hassle of driving. For $89.08 per person, this 3-hour guided experience takes you to three distinct breweries, each with its own unique flavor profile and atmosphere. The tour is designed for beer lovers and curious newcomers alike, with all transportation included and beer samples at each stop.

What makes this tour stand out is the focus on learning about the beer-making process while enjoying a variety of brews in a friendly group setting. With live commentary from knowledgeable guides, you get an inside look at Victoria’s energetic brewing scene. While the tour is well-paced and engaging, it’s important to note that public transportation isn’t included, and hotel pickup is not available, making convenient meeting points essential.

Key Points

• Price and Duration: Costs $89.08 per person for approximately 3 hours of brewery hopping.
• All-Inclusive Transportation: Private transport takes you between three breweries, removing the need for self-driving.
• Visit Three Unique Breweries: Stops include Category 12, Vancouver Island Brewing, and Swans Brewery.
• Tastings and Tours: Each brewery offers a flight of four 4-ounce samples, plus a behind-the-scenes look at the brewing process at Category 12.
• Expert Guides: Guides provide live commentary and insights, making the experience both educational and fun.
• Rated #1 in Victoria: The tour boasts a perfect 5.0/5 rating from 14 reviews, with 100% recommendation.

Starting Point and Booking Insights

The tour departs from a centrally located spot at 721 Government Street in Victoria at 4 pm, making it easy to access via public transportation. The group size is limited to 14 travelers, ensuring a friendly, intimate atmosphere. Since the tour is booked on average 28 days in advance, securing your spot early is advisable, especially during peak seasons.

Booking includes all beer tastings (a total of 16 ounces across all stops), live commentary, a professional guide, and private transportation. No food is included, but the tour concludes near some of Victoria’s top restaurants, ideal for extending your evening.

Exploring the Stop at Herald Street Brew Works

The first stop, Herald Street Brew Works, introduces guests to Victoria’s newest beers. Here, the focus is on unique, often one-time brews that may never be available again, making each visit special. The 45-minute stop includes a flight of different beers, providing a taste of the brewery’s creative offerings. This stop is perfect for those who enjoy trying rare or experimental brews.

Discovering the Heritage at Moon Under Water Brewpub

The second stop is Moon Under Water Brewpub and Distillery, which offers a flight of classic German-style ales and lagers. Expect familiar favorites like German ales, complemented by a Creepy Uncle Dunkel, a beer that adds a playful touch to the tasting experience. The 45-minute visit here emphasizes traditional brewing styles in a lively setting, making it suitable for those interested in both craft beer and beer history.

Enjoying the Laid-Back Atmosphere at Swans Brewery

The final stop, Swans Brewery, showcases First Nations art in a relaxed tasting room. This brewery leans toward more casual, easy-drinking beers perfect for unwinding after a day of sightseeing. The 45-minute stop allows for sampling four more beers and soaking in the artful ambiance, rounding out the tour with a distinctly local feel.

Behind the Scenes at Category 12 Brewing

The tour begins at Category 12, where guests receive a behind-the-scenes tour of the brewing process. This stop highlights the craft and science behind beer-making, giving guests a deeper appreciation of the flavors they sample later. The 45-minute visit features four boldly flavored draft beers, making it a highlight for those interested in the brewing craft.

Flexibility and Customization

Guests are welcome to bring a growler of beer home, with the option to fill it up during the tour. The bus provides a convenient and comfortable way to move between stops, and guides are available to answer questions and share insights. Since the lineup of breweries may vary, the tour offers a fresh experience with each visit.

The Authentic Victoria Brewing Scene

This tour captures the vibrant local brewing community on Vancouver Island, featuring independent breweries that emphasize flavor and creativity. The stops are selected to showcase different brewing styles, from experimental to traditional, providing a well-rounded perspective on Victoria’s craft beer scene.

Practical Details and Limitations

While the tour offers all transport and tastings, it does not include hotel pickup or public transportation. Travelers should plan to meet at 721 Government Street promptly at 4 pm. The tour’s maximum group size of 14 helps maintain an intimate environment, and the non-refundable booking policy encourages early reservation.

Who Will Most Enjoy This Tour?

This experience is ideal for beer enthusiasts eager to explore Victoria’s breweries in a guided setting. It’s equally suited for first-timers wanting to learn more about craft beer or those seeking a relaxed, social activity in the city. Travelers who appreciate guided insights and local brewing stories will find this tour especially rewarding.

Final Thoughts on the Victoria Craft Brewery Tour

The Victoria Craft Brewery Tour delivers excellent value for $89.08, combining educational content, beer tastings, and convenient transportation. The focus on small, independent breweries ensures a genuine look at Victoria’s brewing landscape. The expert guides and variety of stops make this tour a standout choice for anyone interested in exploring the city’s craft beer scene.

While the absence of hotel pickup might be a consideration for some, the centrally-located meeting point makes it accessible. The three stops provide a good balance of variety and depth, with the behind-the-scenes tour at Category 12 adding a special touch for craft beer aficionados.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for non-drinkers?
This tour is designed for those 19 and older, and all stops involve sampling beer. Non-drinkers might find it less suitable, but they can still enjoy the guide’s insights and the social atmosphere.

How much beer do I get to try?
Each stop features a flight of four 4-ounce beers, totaling 16 ounces across three stops.

Are food or snacks included?
No, food is not part of the tour, but the tour concludes near popular restaurants for those wanting to extend their evening.

Can I bring my own growler?
Yes, guests are welcome to bring a growler to fill during the tour.

What is the tour’s cancellation policy?
The experience is non-refundable once booked. Changes or cancellations are not permitted.

How many people are on each tour?
The maximum group size is 14 travelers, ensuring a friendly and personalized experience.

What is the meeting point for the tour?
The tour starts at 721 Government Street, Victoria, at 4 pm.

Is this tour accessible by public transportation?
Yes, the meeting point is near public transportation, but the tour itself does not include hotel pickup.

What makes this tour stand out?
Rated #1 beverage tour in Victoria with a perfect 5.0/5 rating, the tour is praised for knowledgeable guides and variety of breweries.

Who should book this tour?
Anyone interested in craft beer, local breweries, or learning about Victoria’s brewing culture will find this tour both enjoyable and informative.