From Vancouver: Malahat SkyWalk & Vancouver Island Day Trip

Discover the breathtaking beauty of Vancouver Island on this full-day excursion from Vancouver. Explore the elevated Malahat SkyWalk, indulge in a guided tour and cider tasting at Merridale Cidery, and marvel at the iconic totem poles in Duncan. This scenic journey includes a ferry ride across the Strait of Georgia and a comfortable bus ride, offering plenty of opportunities to soak in the stunning vistas. Whether you’re a nature enthusiast or simply seeking a day of adventure, this day trip promises an unforgettable experience that will leave you craving more of what this remarkable island has to offer.

Key Points

• Explore the Malahat SkyWalk, a 600-meter elevated walkway with panoramic forest views, as part of a full-day excursion from Vancouver.
• Enjoy a scenic 95-minute ferry ride from Vancouver to Vancouver Island, with opportunities to spot marine life like seals and whales.
• Discover the ‘City of Totems’ in Duncan, where a guided walking tour showcases the world-famous Cowichan Valley’s collection of First Nations totem poles.
• Indulge in a guided cider tasting experience at the Merridale Cidery & Distillery, located on Vancouver Island.
• The tour provides transportation via deluxe mini-coach and is wheelchair-accessible, ensuring a comfortable and inclusive experience for all.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Trip Overview and Pricing

The Malahat SkyWalk & Vancouver Island Day Trip departs from 1025 Canada Pl, offering a full-day excursion from Vancouver at a price starting from $206.45 per person.

This 13-hour tour includes a scenic ferry ride and visits to the Malahat SkyWalk, Merridale Cidery & Distillery, and the City of Totems in Duncan.

Travelers can take advantage of free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and reserve their spot now without paying until later.

The trip features a mix of transportation, including bus/coach and ferry, ensuring a comfortable and convenient experience for visitors exploring the natural beauty of Vancouver Island.

Itinerary Details

Starting from the central departure point of 1025 Canada Pl, the day trip embarks on a 75-minute bus/coach journey to the ferry terminal, followed by a 95-minute scenic ferry ride across the waters to Vancouver Island. Once on Vancouver Island, the group will travel by bus/coach for 1 hour to reach their first stop, the Malahat SkyWalk. After spending 1.5 hours exploring the 600-meter elevated pathway and 10-storey spiral tower, the tour continues to the Merridale Cidery & Distillery for a guided tour and cider tasting. The final stop is in the city of Duncan, where travelers will enjoy a 1-hour walking tour to admire the First Nations totem poles before returning to the starting point.

Travel Mode	Duration
Bus/coach	75 minutes
Ferry	95 minutes
Bus/coach	1 hour
Malahat SkyWalk	1.5 hours
Merridale Cidery & Distillery	1.5 hours

Key Stops

The day trip embarks on a scenic ferry ride from Vancouver to Vancouver Island, followed by visits to the Malahat SkyWalk, Merridale Cidery & Distillery, and the city of Duncan.

At the Malahat SkyWalk, travelers can explore a 600-meter elevated pathway and a 10-storey spiral tower with panoramic views.

Next, they’ll visit the Merridale Cidery & Distillery for a guided tour and cider tasting.

The final stop is the city of Duncan, known as the ‘City of Totems,’ where travelers can admire the First Nations totem poles.

Throughout the day, the trip utilizes a deluxe mini-coach with air conditioning to ensure a comfortable and convenient experience.

Scenic Ferry Ride

Although the day trip begins in Vancouver, travelers embark on a scenic 95-minute ferry ride to reach Vancouver Island, providing breathtaking views of the coastal landscape.

The ferry journey takes them across the Strait of Georgia, allowing them to admire the majestic mountains, forested islands, and sparkling waters that make this region so visually stunning.

As the ferry glides across the waves, passengers can spot marine life like seals, whales, and seabirds, adding to the enchantment of the experience.

The ferry ride is a serene and picturesque prelude to the adventures that await on Vancouver Island, setting the tone for a day filled with natural wonders and cultural discoveries.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

Malahat SkyWalk

After the scenic ferry ride from Vancouver, the Malahat SkyWalk stands as the next captivating stop on this day trip. This elevated walkway stretches 600 meters, providing visitors with breathtaking panoramic vistas from its 10-storey spiral tower.

The Malahat SkyWalk offers guests a unique and memorable experience:

1. A chance to connect with nature and admire the stunning views of the Salish Sea and Finlayson Arm.

2. An opportunity to test their nerves on the glass-bottomed platform that offers a thrilling glimpse of the forest floor below.

3. The ability to learn about the area’s rich Indigenous history and culture through informative displays.

4. The convenience of wheelchair accessibility, making the attraction welcoming for visitors of all abilities.

Merridale Cidery & Distillery

Following the scenic ferry ride and the captivating Malahat SkyWalk, visitors arrive at the Merridale Cidery & Distillery, where they enjoy a guided tour and cider tasting. The cidery offers a unique opportunity to explore the art of cider-making and sample a variety of locally-crafted ciders.

Cider Offerings	Guided Tour	Tasting Experience
Traditional Ciders	Learn about the cider-making process	Sample a variety of cider flavors
Seasonal Ciders	Explore the orchard and production facilities	Discover the nuances of each cider
Specialty Ciders	Gain insights into the history and heritage of the cidery	Pair ciders with local snacks

City of Totems

In Duncan, British Columbia, the ‘City of Totems’ showcases a remarkable collection of First Nations totem poles, offering visitors a glimpse into the rich cultural heritage of the region. As part of the day trip, travelers can explore the city’s vibrant downtown, where towering totem poles stand as powerful symbols of Indigenous history and tradition.

The highlights of the Duncan walking tour include:

1. The world-famous Duncan Totem Poles, featuring intricate carvings that tell the stories of local First Nations communities.

2. The Cowichan Valley Museum, which provides insight into the area’s indigenous art, crafts, and cultural practices.

3. The Eagle Plaza, home to a stunning 55-foot tall totem pole that serves as a centerpiece for the community.

4. Opportunities to interact with local artisans and learn about the significance of totem pole carving.

Inclusions and Accessibility

The day trip package includes Malahat Skywalk admission, deluxe mini-coach transportation with air conditioning, round-trip ferry tickets, a guided cider tasting at Merridale Cidery, and a walking tour of Duncan’s historic downtown. The experience is designed to be accessible for all ages and abilities, with wheelchair-friendly pathways and facilities.

Feature	Details
Accessibility	Wheelchair accessible
Age	Suitable for all ages
Activities	Elevated walkway, tower lookout, cider tasting, city tour
Inclusions	Admission, transportation, ferry, tastings, guided tour

The package offers a well-rounded exploration of the natural and cultural highlights of Vancouver Island, catering to a diverse range of travelers.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is the Weather Typically Like During the Tour?

The weather on Vancouver Island is typically mild and pleasant, with average temperatures ranging from 15-20°C (59-68°F) during the day. Conditions are often sunny, though occasional rain showers are possible, so dressing in layers is recommended.

Are There Any Dietary Restrictions Accommodated on the Tour?

The tour operator accommodates dietary restrictions, such as vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options. Customers should notify the operator of any special dietary needs when booking the tour to ensure their preferences are catered for.

How Much Walking Is Involved Throughout the Day?

The tour involves moderate walking, including a 600-meter elevated pathway at the Malahat SkyWalk and a walking tour in Duncan. The overall walking distance is manageable for most guests, though some travelers may find the pace challenging.

Can I Store My Luggage During the Tour?

The tour doesn’t provide luggage storage, but participants can ask the guide about options to store their bags during the day. Travelers should plan to carry any necessary items with them throughout the tour.

Is There an Option to Extend My Stay on Vancouver Island?

There doesn’t appear to be an option to extend your stay on Vancouver Island as part of this day trip package. The itinerary is set with a fixed duration and return to the starting location in Vancouver.

Recap

This day trip from Vancouver showcases the stunning natural beauty of Vancouver Island.

Visitors can enjoy a scenic ferry ride, explore the elevated Malahat SkyWalk, discover the charming Merridale Cidery, and admire the iconic totem poles in Duncan.

With comfortable transportation and guided activities, this excursion provides an unforgettable way to experience the island’s natural wonders.

You can check if your dates are available here: