Are you planning a trip to Victoria, British Columbia from Seattle? If so, consider taking the Seattle to Victoria ferry for a unique and scenic travel experience.
Located in the beautiful Pacific Northwest, Victoria is a popular destination for its stunning natural beauty and charming downtown. It’s just a short ferry ride away from Seattle, making it a convenient couple of day getaway. We suggest to spend the night to see all that Victoria has to offer. Make sure you bring your passport for this trip. It will also need to be valid for six months after you come back to the states.
The Seattle to Victoria ferry is operated by the Victoria Clipper, a high-speed passenger-only ferry that departs from Pier 69 in downtown Seattle and arrives in Victoria’s Inner Harbour. The ferry ride takes about 2 hours and 45 minutes and offers stunning views of the Puget Sound and the San Juan Islands. Pay close attention and you might have the opportunity to see Orca whales as the navigate in the Salish Sea.
Onboard the ferry, you’ll find comfortable seating, a snack bar, and restrooms. You can also bring your own food and drinks (excluding alcohol) to enjoy during the journey. In the summer months, there are also outdoor decks where you can soak up the sun and enjoy the scenery of the San Juan Islands.
Visit Butchart Gardens
In Victoria, you’ll find plenty of things to do and see. Visit the famous Butchart Gardens a stunning 55-acre botanical garden located in Victoria, British Columbia. The gardens are world-renowned for their stunning floral displays, which change with the seasons and include a wide variety of plants, flowers, and trees.
The gardens were originally the site of a cement company, owned by Robert Butchart and his wife Jennie. In the early 1900s, Jennie began transforming the barren landscape into a beautiful garden, planting flowers and trees and creating winding paths and ponds. Today, the gardens are a testament to Jennie’s hard work and dedication, and are enjoyed by visitors from all over the world.
One of the most popular features of the gardens is the Sunken Garden, which was created from an old quarry. The Sunken Garden is filled with colorful flowers, fountains, and statues, and is favorite of visitor to the gardens. Other highlights include the Rose Garden, the Japanese Garden, and the Mediterranean Garden.
In addition to the beautiful gardens, Butchart Gardens also offers a variety of activities and events throughout the year. These include concerts, fireworks displays, and holiday light displays. The gardens are also home to a few dining options, including a tea room and a pub, as well as a gift shop where you can purchase souvenirs and plants. Check the laws on bringing plants back into the U.S. however, before you make your purchase.
You can also take a stroll through the historic Old Town, or sample some local craft beer at one of Victoria’s many breweries. Or perhaps visit the Royal BC Museum to learn about the city’s history and culture.
Visit the Royal BC Museum
The Royal BC Museum in Victoria, British Columbia is a must-see destination. Located in the heart of downtown Victoria, the museum is home to a variety of exhibits showcasing the natural and cultural history of British Columbia.
One of the museum’s most popular exhibits is the “First Peoples Gallery,” which explores the rich culture and traditions of the Indigenous peoples of the region. Here, you’ll learn about the history and way of life of the Coast Salish, Kwakwaka’wakw, Nisga’a, and other Indigenous communities, and see artifacts and artworks.
Another highlight of the museum is the “Natural History Gallery,” which showcases the diverse flora and fauna of British Columbia. From giant fossils to live animals to an exhibit called “Ocean Station” that looks like a Victorian-era submarine harking back to the days of Jules Verne.
But the Royal BC Museum isn’t just about static exhibits – there are also interactive displays and activities that allow you to experience history in a hands-on way. For example, in the “Modern History Gallery,” you can step into a replica of a 1920s living room and see how people lived in the past, or try your hand at gold panning in the “Gold Rush Gallery.”
Hotel Fairmont Empress for Afternoon Tea
Lastly, If you’re looking for a unique and elegant way to spend an afternoon in Victoria, British Columbia, consider having tea at the Hotel Fairmont Empress. Located in the heart of downtown Victoria, the Hotel Fairmont Empress is a historic and luxurious hotel that has been a staple of the city’s landscape since 1908.
One of the hotel’s most popular features is its award-winning afternoon tea service, which takes place in the stunning Tea Lobby. Here, you’ll be treated to a selection of fine teas and delicious pastries, served on elegant china. You can choose from a variety of teas, including traditional black teas, fruity herbal infusions, and creamy chai blends.
As you savor your tea, you’ll be surrounded by the opulent decor of the Tea Lobby, which features grand chandeliers, marble floors, and antique furnishings. You’ll feel like you’ve stepped back in time to a more refined era as you enjoy your tea in this luxurious setting.
Take a Walk Around the Harbour
Victoria is a great city, be sure to spend some time exploring Victoria’s stunning waterfront, which is home to a number of parks, restaurants, and other attractions. Here, you can take a leisurely walk along the harbor, watch the boats go by, or relax on a bench and enjoy the view, before you head back aboard the Victoria Clipper for your journey back to Seattle.
Car Ferry Service to Victoria
The Seattle to Victoria ride via the Clipper is for passengers only. If you prefer to drive, you can take your car from Port Angeles to Victoria via the Coho ferry. This ferry service operates between Port Angeles and Victoria’s Inner Harbour, and allows you to bring your car onboard. The ferry ride takes about 90 minutes, and there are several departures daily. Reservations are highly recommended.
Note: You’ll have about a 3 hour drive from Downtown Seattle via Tacoma to Port Angles where you can catch the M.V. Coho. Or for a more scenic route take the Bainbridge Island Ferry across from downtown Seattle.