Victoria’s waterfront buzzes with excellent cruise and boat tour options. The best experiences center around whale watching, with resident orcas and migrating humpbacks stealing the show. I’m especially fond of the 3-hour sunset tour on open Scarab boats – you’ll feel every thrill of the chase while getting amazingly close to these magnificent creatures. For those preferring more comfort, the covered boat tours offer protection from the elements during 4-hour excursions.
For something magical, try the evening combo tour that pairs a boat ride with the illuminated Butchart Gardens – it’s a perfect mix of nature and culture. Marine biology buffs will appreciate the private charters where experts share insider knowledge about local sea life.
Prime viewing runs April through October, though winter trips can yield surprisingly good sightings. Let’s check out our favorite boat tours in Victoria.
Key Points
- Opt for whale watching tours, which offer sightings of orcas, humpback whales, and gray whales, as well as other marine wildlife like sea lions and harbor seals.
- Consider private charters led by marine biologists for a personalized and educational experience.
- Explore scenic tours that combine boat rides with visits to local attractions like the Butchart Gardens.
- Plan your trip during the peak season from April to October to maximize wildlife sightings and outdoor activities.
- Ensure to make reservations in advance, dress appropriately, and bring binoculars for enhanced wildlife viewing.
Victoria: Sunset Whale Watching Tour on an Open Scarab Boat
One of the popular whale watching tours in Victoria is the Sunset Whale Watching Tour on an Open Scarab Boat.
It’s a 3-hour tour that departs from Victoria and is highly rated at 4.7 out of 5 stars from 148 reviews. Priced at $127.19 per person, this tour offers the chance to spot whales in their natural habitat during the golden hour.
Travelers will embark on a zodiac boat for an intimate experience, exploring the waters around Victoria in search of orcas, humpback whales, and other marine life.
With the stunning backdrop of the sunset, this tour provides an unforgettable whale watching adventure.
Read our full review: Victoria: Sunset Whale Watching Tour on an Open Scarab Boat Review
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Victoria: Whale Watching Cruise by Covered Boat
The whale-watching cruise by covered boat in Victoria, BC, offers an immersive adventure for those seeking to observe marine life in the Salish Sea.
Aboard a state-of-the-art catamaran, guests can explore three viewing areas and enjoy a 4-hour tour with guaranteed whale sightings. The cruise features live commentary from marine experts, complemented by a free photo package.
Onboard amenities include an indoor heated cabin, snack bar, and complimentary hot drinks. With an overall rating of 4.7/5 based on 285 reviews, the tour provides an unforgettable experience, praised for its friendly crew and high-quality photographs.
Guests should dress warmly and wear closed-toe shoes, as alcohol, drugs, and other prohibited items aren’t allowed.
Read our full review: Victoria: Whale Watching Cruise by Covered Boat Review
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Scenic Victoria Small Group Night Tour W/ Boat & Butchart Ga
Guests can embark on a captivating Scenic Victoria Small Group Night Tour with Boat & Butchart Gardens. This 4-hour experience showcases the city’s enchanting nighttime ambiance.
The small group, limited to 7 participants, will enjoy a narrated driving tour, a scenic boat cruise, and a visit to the renowned Butchart Gardens. Admire the illuminated pathways and experience the gardens’ beauty after sunset.
The tour includes pickup and drop-off from anywhere in downtown Victoria, boat ride admission, and Butchart Gardens entry.
Though the overall rating is 1/5 based on one review noting an issue with pickup, the experience promises to immerse guests in Victoria’s captivating nightscape.
Travelers can reserve now and pay later, with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
Read our full review: Scenic Victoria Small Group Night Tour W/ Boat & Butchart Ga Review
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Private Charter – Marine Life and Whale-Watching Boat Tour
For those seeking an immersive marine life and whale-watching experience in Victoria, the Private Charter – Marine Life and Whale-Watching Boat Tour offers a captivating 3-hour adventure.
Priced from Kč 24,672 per person, this private charter tour takes small groups of up to 8 participants to encounter local marine wildlife, including orcas, humpback whales, harbor seals, and over 127 species of marine birds.
Guided by a marine biologist, the tour features two outdoor viewing areas and a heated cabin, with snacks and bottled water provided.
Participants must complete a COVID-19 waiver and temperature check, and the tour is subject to weather conditions.
With an impressive 5/5 rating, this tour is a must-do for nature enthusiasts visiting Victoria.
Read our full review: Private Charter – Marine Life and Whale-Watching Boat Tour Review
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Victoria: Morning Whale-Watching Tour in Scarab Boat
Travelers seeking a captivating whale-watching experience in Victoria can embark on the Victoria: Morning Whale-Watching Tour in Scarab Boat.
This 3-hour tour provides the opportunity to spot majestic orcas, humpback whales, and other marine life in their natural habitat. The small group setting on the Scarab boat allows for an intimate and personalized experience.
With a knowledgeable guide providing commentary, guests can learn about the whales’ behaviors and the region’s ecosystem. Rated 4.7 out of 5 stars from 148 reviews, this tour is priced at $127.19 per person, making it an affordable and unforgettable way to connect with the wonders of Victoria’s waterways.
Read our full review: Victoria: Morning Whale-Watching Tour in Scarab Boat Review
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From Victoria: Whale Watching Trip on Covered Boat
This whale watching tour from Victoria offers guests an immersive 3-hour adventure to explore the Salish Sea around Vancouver Island.
At a price of $129.07 per person, the tour provides the opportunity to spot various whale species, including Biggs Killer Whales, Humpback Whales, Minke, and Gray whales.
Guests can also encounter marine wildlife like Dall’s and Harbor porpoises, Harbor and Elephant Seals, otters, and marine birds.
The tour includes complimentary hot beverages, onboard bathrooms, indoor and outdoor viewing areas, and a photo package.
Led by certified marine naturalists, the carbon-neutral tour guarantees whale sightings with a conservation fee included and offers a complimentary second tour if whales aren’t spotted.
Read our full review: From Victoria: Whale Watching Trip on Covered Boat Review
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Victoria: 3-Hour Whale Watching Tour in a Zodiac Boat
A thrilling 3-hour whale watching excursion awaits adventurers in Victoria’s inner harbour aboard a 12-seater zodiac boat.
Priced from Kč 3,127 per person, this tour offers the chance to spot a variety of marine life, including orcas, humpbacks, and grey whales, guided by a Transport Canada-approved skipper.
Comfortable cruiser suits, live commentary, and complimentary hot beverages ensure a comfortable and informative experience.
With a lifetime whale sightings guarantee, this tour is a must-do for those seeking an unforgettable encounter with nature.
However, the experience may not be suitable for pregnant women or those with heart or back issues.
Participants must also adhere to safety restrictions, making this an exhilarating yet responsible way to explore Victoria’s abundant wildlife.
Read our full review: Victoria: 3-Hour Whale Watching Tour in a Zodiac Boat Review
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From Victoria: Whale Watching Tour by Zodiac Boat
The thrilling 3-hour whale watching tour from Victoria transports adventurers aboard a 12-seater Zodiac boat into the inner harbor to spot a variety of marine life.
Priced from $127.19 per person, this tour offers the chance to see killer whales, humpback whales, sea lions, porpoises, seals, and marine birds.
Knowledgeable guides provide educational commentary on the natural history and ecology of the British Columbia coast. Participants receive complimentary flotation suits before boarding for safety.
With an overall rating of 4.7/5 from 148 reviews, this tour isn’t suitable for pregnant women, individuals with back problems, recent surgeries, or children under 7 years old.
Availability can be checked, and reservations made with a pay-later option.
Read our full review: From Victoria: Whale Watching Tour by Zodiac Boat Review
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Victoria: Sunset Whale Watching Tour on Semi-Covered Boat
Venturing beyond the thrilling 3-hour whale watching tour by Zodiac boat, the Victoria: Sunset Whale Watching Tour on Semi-Covered Boat offers a captivating alternative.
This 3-hour excursion boasts a rating of 4.0 from 37 reviews, priced at $108.56 per person. Guests can marvel at the majestic whales against the backdrop of a breathtaking sunset, all from the comfort of a semi-covered boat.
The tour’s timing allows visitors to witness the marine wildlife in a serene, golden-hour setting, creating an unforgettable experience.
With its scenic views and the chance to spot diverse marine life, this tour provides a unique and picturesque way to explore Victoria’s coastal wonders.
Read our full review: Victoria: Sunset Whale Watching Tour on Semi-Covered Boat Review
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Victoria: Guided Whale and Wildlife-Watching Cruise
Consistently, the Victoria: Guided Whale and Wildlife-Watching Cruise captivates visitors with its immersive exploration of the region’s diverse marine life.
The 3-hour tour, rated 4.6 out of 159 reviews, provides a small-group experience to spot whales, seals, and other wildlife in their natural habitat.
At $117.88 per person, the cruise offers an up-close encounter with the area’s abundant marine ecosystems.
Guests can expect to see a variety of species, including orcas, humpback whales, and seals, all while learning about the region’s ecology from knowledgeable guides.
This tour is an excellent choice for wildlife enthusiasts seeking an intimate and educational adventure on the waters surrounding Victoria.
Read our full review: Victoria: Guided Whale and Wildlife-Watching Cruise Review
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Recap
Victoria offers a range of whale watching and boat tour options to suit different preferences. From open-air scarab boats to covered cruises and high-speed zodiacs, visitors can enjoy spectacular views of whales, wildlife, and the scenic coastline. Whether you prefer morning, afternoon, or sunset tours, there’s a boat tour in Victoria that can provide an unforgettable experience.