Victoria +
Butchart Gardens Christmas Tour

About This Tour

Victoria + Butchart Gardens Christmas Tour

Have yourself a merry little Butchart Gardens Christmas!

Your journey begins with a 90-minute cruise aboard BC Ferries. Bundle up and enjoy the scenic views from the outdoor viewing deck or simply relax and enjoy the voyage through the Juan de Fuca Straight and the Gulf Islands. Discover the charming city of Victoria where Christmas lights adorn the Fairmont Empress, the Parliament Buildings, and even the boats docked in the Inner Harbour. Next up is the Butchart Gardens Christmas displays! Stroll along the pathways and wind through the festive poinsettias, dainty snowdrops, and through the Twelve Days of Christmas displays featuring thousands of glittering lights. Watch out for mistletoe!

If you are seeking to inquire about our Private Charter services, please call our Contact Centre at 604-451-1600 for further information.

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EXPLORATION STOPS

Next stop: Adventure! Step off the bus, stretch your legs, and explore at your own pace. We've created our itinerary to give you the perfect amount of time at each unforgettable stop! Not sure where to start? Our guides are always happy to show you their favourite hidden gems!

Victoria Inner Harbour

Ahh, Victoria. A beautiful, oceanside city that combines rich history, stunning natural beauty, and a wide breadth of culture that will melt your stresses away. Become aquainted with a drive through the inner city along Government Street and North America's second oldest Chinatown. Stretch your legs on the boardwalk at Victoria's Inner Harbour under the majestic Parliament Buildings and the Empress Hotel. If the timing is right you could be rewarded with one of the many festivals hosted at the Inner Harbour, or dazzled during the Christmas season by the thousands of lights that shine to celebrate the holidays.

The Butchart Gardens - Christmas

All year long the Butchart Gardens in Victoria delight over 1 million visitors each year with over 22 hectares of beautifully manicured gardens and landscapes. The Christmas holidays are no exception as the gardens are wonderfully illuminated with tens of thousands of sparkling lights. To make your experience memorable, bundle up for a festive stroll along pathways decorated with traditional garlands, view the illumination of thousands of lights and enjoy the Twelve Days of Christmas displays throughout. The gardens are renowned as a National Historic Site of Canada, and during the holiday season this acclaim is taken to an entirely new level.

TOUR HIGHLIGHTS

Each of our tours shine a spotlight on the region's most iconic landmarks, neighbourhoods, and culture — all with live narration from our expert guides. Don't forget your camera! Our oversized, tinted windows are designed for sightseeing so you won’t miss a thing!

BC Ferries

A floating kaleidoscope of breathtaking scenery, BC Ferries delivers 90 minutes of “wow” to and from Vancouver Island on our Victoria + Butchart Gardens tours. Take a seat and enjoy the voyage across Juan de Fuca Strait and through the Gulf Islands. Or step outside for a closer look and some fresh, salty sea air. Don’t be surprised if you see seals and maybe even a private porpoise or whale show. Onboard amenities include a self-serve restaurant and kid’s entertainment area.

Prices include attraction admission and taxes. Gratuity is optional and is not included in the price. If you feel our staff have gone above and beyond your expectations, gratuity will be greatly appreciated.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long will we spend on BC Ferries?

It takes about 90 minutes on the BC Ferries to reach Vancouver Island from the Tsawwassen Ferry Terminal. Onboard amenities include a self-serve restaurant, kid’s entertainment area and washrooms.

Is there food on the ferry?

Yes, you can purchase food at the onboard café and full buffet.

How much free time will we have in Victoria?

Depending on the season, during the Spring and Summer tour guest will have approximately 2-2.5 hours of free time. During the Winter season, guests will have approximately 1.5 hours of free time in Victoria.

What can I do during my free time in Victoria?

Enjoy the quaint charm of the shops, cafes, restaurants, and galleries that fill Victoria’s Inner Harbour. Sip a festive afternoon tea at the historic Fairmont Empress Hotel or explore the spectacular provincial parliament buildings. Ask your Guide for recommendations to help you create your perfect day in Victoria.

Are the Butchart Gardens wheelchair accessible?

Yes, all public areas are wheelchair accessible with the exception of a viewpoint area within the Sunken Garden known as “The Mound.”