Exploring Victoria BC by water offers a beautiful perspective of the area and opportunities to spot local wildlife. In fact, it’s one of our favorite things to do in the city and its surrounding areas.
Whether paddling or on a boat tour, breathing in the salty sea air while sunlight dances across the surface and seabirds soar overhead often evokes a sense of calm. If that’s what you’re craving, the Inner Harbour is where you’ll want to go to admire the beauty of the city from the water. There are many ways to do so, from boat tours and kayaking to SUP, including sunset paddleboarding, an especially magical experience.
Of course, there are many other options for getting out on the water while visiting Victoria. And, you’ll find multiple waterways for enjoying them. Not to mention, the best way to reach the BC capital is by water, aboard the FRS Clipper:
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Exploring Victoria BC By Water on the H20 Taxi
“H20” boats serve as water taxis, providing hop-on, hop-off service between over a dozen docks. Not only does it offer a practical alternative transport option, but it’s perfect for sightseeing. Both scheduled tours and on-demand taxi services provide a unique way to see the waterfront and the city while watching for marine life.
Boat Tour Through Butchart Gardens ‘Night Illuminations’
Exploring The Butchart Gardens is widely regarded as one of the best activities in Victoria. While most simply stroll the winding paths to take in all the color, there are boat tours for a dazzling perspective from the water.
What many don’t know is that during the summer, boat tours are operated during the popular Night Illuminations. A true hidden gem, available Wednesdays through Sundays, you can glide through when the gardens are beautifully lit. It’s a completely different atmosphere than what you’ll experience by day. Plus, on Saturdays from late June through August, you can catch live music and a fireworks show too!
INSIDER TIP: BOOK YOUR SEATTLE to VICTORIA FERRY with THE BUTCHART GARDENS TOUR for BIG $AVINGS!
Exploring Victoria BC By Water via Kayak: Inner Harbour or The Gorge
Kayaking is another one of the best activities for exploring Victoria BC by water. Tours are available that will take you through the picturesque Inner Harbour, stopping at iconic landmarks along the way.
INSIDER TIP: To save on your trip, book a package that includes the FRS Clipper ferry ride to Victoria and a kayak tour.
Kayak excursions through the Inner Harbour often include stops at the iconic Fairmont Empress Hotel, Fisherman’s Wharf, and the parliament buildings. Keep a close eye on the water as you paddle. You never know when a seal or two might pop up next to your vessel. Seafood lovers note: a brief stop can also be made to sample some of the city’s mouthwatering local catch.
The Gorge Waterway is also a great paddling option. The leafy, park-lined ecological sanctuary snaking north from the Upper Harbour is ideal for sightings of harbor seals, river otters, eagles, herons, and more.
Exploring Victoria BC By Water via SUP
Another one of our favorite activities is paddling around Fisherman’s Wharf. South Island SUP offers rentals so you can enjoy the ultimate view of the floating homes right from the water level.
Last but not least, for a grand finale, being out on the water at sunset is unforgettable. South Island SUP will also bring you to some of the best places for sunset paddleboarding Victoria BC. That includes Willows Beach and Gonzales Bay. If you want to enhance the experience, tours can even include dinner on the water!