Vancouver’s seaplane day trip to Victoria and the renowned Butchart Gardens offers a captivating blend of natural beauty and cultural exploration. Soaring over the Gulf Islands, passengers embark on a 35-minute aerial journey before disembarking in Victoria for a shuttle ride to the stunning 55-acre floral paradise. With ample free time in the city, visitors can enjoy the local charm, indulging in shopping, dining, or discovering iconic landmarks. This all-inclusive package promises a remarkable day of discovery, leaving travelers eager to uncover the secrets that await them in this picturesque corner of the Pacific Northwest.
Key Points
- This 8-hour seaplane tour departs from Vancouver Harbour Flight Centre, providing a 35-minute scenic flight over the Gulf Islands to Victoria.
- The tour includes round-trip airfare, ground transportation, and admission to the renowned Butchart Gardens, allowing visitors to explore its 55 acres of floral displays.
- After visiting Butchart Gardens, the tour provides free time to explore downtown Victoria, including its shops, cafes, and historic landmarks such as the Parliament Buildings and Royal BC Museum.
- The tour is highly rated by customers, with an overall rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars based on 110 reviews, particularly for the knowledgeable guide and smooth transportation.
- The tour offers a flexible cancellation policy, allowing full refunds up to 24 hours prior to departure, and is bookable through the Vancouver Harbour Flight Centre.
Overview of the Tour
Departing from the Vancouver Harbour Flight Centre, this 8-hour seaplane tour transports guests to the beautiful city of Victoria and the renowned Butchart Gardens.
Priced at $501.89 per person, the tour includes round-trip airfare, ground transportation, and admission to Butchart Gardens. Travelers can conveniently book this experience with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
The day begins with a 35-minute seaplane flight over the scenic Gulf Islands before arriving in Victoria. From there, guests will explore the iconic Butchart Gardens, have free time in downtown Victoria, and return to Vancouver on a scheduled afternoon flight.
This comprehensive package offers an unforgettable day of sightseeing and natural wonder.
You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in Victoria British Columbia.
Itinerary and Schedule
The tour begins with participants arriving for check-in at the Vancouver Harbour Flight Centre at 7:50 am, before departing for Victoria by seaplane at 8:30 am for a 35-minute flight.
Upon arrival in Victoria, a shuttle departs at 10:00 am to take visitors to the renowned Butchart Gardens, where they’ll have around 4 hours to explore the diverse flora and landscaping at their own pace.
At 1:00 pm, the shuttle returns to downtown Victoria, providing free time to stroll through the charming streets and shops.
Transportation and Flights
A scenic 35-minute seaplane flight transports visitors from Vancouver’s waterfront to the picturesque city of Victoria, where they’ll disembark for the next leg of their journey.
The seaplane departs from the Vancouver Harbour Flight Centre, offering stunning aerial views of the Gulf Islands along the way.
Upon arrival in Victoria, guests can then take a shuttle to the world-famous Butchart Gardens, about a 45-minute drive from the city center.
At the end of the day, travelers can catch a scheduled return flight back to Vancouver, making this a truly seamless and convenient day trip.
The round-trip airfare is included in the package, ensuring a hassle-free experience from start to finish.
Butchart Gardens Experience
Upon arrival at Butchart Gardens, visitors can embark on a self-guided tour to explore the world-renowned horticultural masterpiece spanning 55 acres of meticulously designed floral displays and lush landscapes.
Strolling along the winding paths, they’ll discover themed gardens like the Italian Garden, Japanese Garden, and Sunken Garden, each showcasing vibrant blooms and creative plantings. The iconic Ross Fountain serves as a centerpiece, surrounded by manicured lawns and towering trees.
Visitors can also visit the historic Butchart family residence, a former cement factory transformed into a stunning attraction.
With ample time allotted, guests can wander at their own pace, stopping to admire the breathtaking scenery and capture stunning photographs throughout the gardens.
More Great Thing To Do NearbyFree Time in Victoria
Once visitors complete their time at Butchart Gardens, they’ll have the opportunity to explore the charming city of Victoria during the free time allotted.
Whether you’re interested in browsing local shops, visiting a museum, or simply taking in the picturesque harbor views, Victoria offers a wealth of activities to enjoy.
Some highlights include:
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Strolling down Government Street, where you’ll find a mix of boutiques, art galleries, and cafes.
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Admiring the grand architecture of the British Columbia Parliament Buildings.
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Discovering the city’s maritime heritage at the Royal BC Museum.
With the flexibility to explore at your own pace, the free time in Victoria is sure to leave a lasting impression on your seaplane adventure.
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Included Services and Amenities
The seaplane day trip to Victoria and Butchart Gardens includes a comprehensive package of services and amenities to ensure a seamless and enjoyable experience for visitors. The package includes round-trip airfare via seaplane, ground transportation to and from Butchart Gardens, and admission to the iconic gardens. Gratuities are also covered, providing a hassle-free experience. To further enhance the trip, the following amenities are included:
Amenity | Description |
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Seaplane Flight | 35-minute scenic flight over the Gulf Islands |
Butchart Gardens | Self-guided tour of the renowned floral gardens |
Victoria Exploration | Free time to explore the city’s shops, museums, and attractions |
With these inclusive services, travelers can enjoy the beauty of Vancouver Island without worrying about the logistics.
Customer Feedback and Ratings
Consistently, the seaplane day trip to Victoria and Butchart Gardens has received positive customer feedback, with an overall rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars based on 110 reviews.
Travelers have praised the experience, with high marks for the knowledgeable guide (4.8/5), the smooth transportation (4.7/5), and the overall service (4.2/5). However, a few guests noted minor issues with the organization, rating it 4.1 out of 5.
According to reviews, the highlights of the tour include:
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The scenic flight over the Gulf Islands to Victoria
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The breathtaking beauty of the world-famous Butchart Gardens
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The opportunity to explore the charming shops and attractions of downtown Victoria
Booking and Cancellation Policy
For those interested in booking this seaplane day trip, the cancellation policy is quite flexible, allowing for full refunds up to 24 hours prior to the scheduled departure. The tour can be booked through the Vancouver Harbour Flight Centre, located at 1055 Canada Place. The price per person starts at $501.89, and the entire experience lasts around 8 hours. To provide a quick overview, here is a table outlining the key booking and cancellation details:
Booking Details | Value |
---|---|
Tour Name | Vancouver: Seaplane Day Trip to Victoria & Butchart Gardens |
Departure Location | Vancouver Harbour Flight Centre |
Duration | 8 hours |
Price | From $501.89 per person |
Cancellation Policy | Free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund |
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Book a Private Charter for the Seaplane Flight?
Private charters for the seaplane flight may be available, but they’re not mentioned in the tour details. You’d need to contact the tour operator directly to inquire about booking a private charter and get pricing information.
Are There Any Dietary Restrictions or Special Accommodations Available?
This tour doesn’t mention any specific dietary restrictions or special accommodations. However, travelers are advised to contact the tour operator directly to inquire about any such needs, as they may be able to accommodate them upon request.
What Is the Best Time of Year to Visit Butchart Gardens?
The best time to visit Butchart Gardens is during the spring and summer months when the flowers are in full bloom. Visitors can enjoy the vibrant colors and lush greenery across the expansive gardens during this prime visitation period.
Are There Any Discounts or Packages Available for Groups?
Group discounts may be available for the Butchart Gardens, though the specific details aren’t provided in the knowledge. Visitors should check with the tour operator or Butchart Gardens directly to inquire about any group packages or discounted rates.
Can I Extend My Stay in Victoria After the Tour?
Yes, travelers can extend their stay in Victoria after the tour. However, they’ll need to make their own arrangements for accommodations, transportation, and activities beyond what’s included in the package. Additional costs would apply for any extended stay.
Recap
This day trip to Victoria and the Butchart Gardens from Vancouver offers a perfect blend of scenic seaplane flights, immersive experiences at the renowned gardens, and free time to explore the city’s charms.
Travelers can expect a well-organized itinerary, comfortable transportation, and ample opportunities to appreciate the natural beauty and vibrant culture of the region.
With rave reviews and a hassle-free booking process, this package is an ideal choice for those seeking an unforgettable day of discovery.
You can check if your dates are available here:More Tour Reviews in Victoria British Columbia
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