Victoria, British Columbia, Part III of our Alaska Series

Our Final Port of Call

Victoria delivers a delightful blend of British pomp and outdoor adventure. Here you can admire Victorian architecture at Craigdarroch Castle and eat your way around Canada’s oldest Chinatown. Explore “Garden City” floral displays or go biking in the “Cycling Capital of Canada”. 

As the capital and cultural heart of British Columbia, Victoria has something to do for everyone. Though Victoria isn’t as big as Toronto or Montreal, it makes up for its size with charm, history, and plenty of wide-open garden space. The harbor city of Victoria is one of the oldest cities in the region, and as a capital, Victoria has made a name for itself with its museums, gardens, and traditions like afternoon tea ceremonies, castle tours, and other refined activities. Today, more and more young people are flocking to BC and Victoria specifically for technology jobs, breathing new life into the city. On a cruise to Victoria, BC, you’ll quickly gain knowledge of British colonialism in the 19th century and how British occupation continues to impact the personality of Victoria today. After all, the city was named for Queen Victoria herself.

Victoria Highlights

Craigdarroch Castle

The Victorian-era Craigdarroch Castle looms over you as you arrive. It’s hard to believe a castle this magnificent is located in one of Victoria’s neighborhoods on Rockland Avenue since it looks like something out of a period movie. A guided tour of the castle is a must. Explore the nooks and crannies, tour the grand halls, and soak in the opulence while learning about the original builders and residents of the castle, the Dunsmuir family.

Parliament Buildings

History buffs shouldn’t miss the Parliament Buildings during a Victoria, Canada cruise. Located on Belleville Street, these government legislative buildings light up at night. Take the free 45-minute tour if you have time. You can also check out the Legislative Library or catch a spirited debate or two.

Butchart Garden

55 acres of garden and 26 greenhouses mean you could easily spend an entire day at Butchart Garden lost in thought among some of the most beautiful blooms in Victoria. One definitive Victoria experience is afternoon tea at the Butchart Garden. The traditional afternoon tea is a centuries-old practice featuring sandwiches and snacks that you can book in advance of your cruise to Victoria, BC.

Beacon Hill Park

If you’re craving time in nature or some relaxed family fun, look no further than the free and conveniently located Beacon Hill Park on Cook Street, behind the Parliament Buildings. Pack a picnic, take photos of the world’s largest totem poles, or stroll the grounds while visiting on a Victoria, Canada cruise.

If you would like more information on our Alaska Group Cruise, sailing round trip July 29, 2023 from Seattle, and visiting Ketchikan, Juneau, Skagway, and this beautiful city, email Collins@FitzgeraldTravel.com. We would love to have you onboard with us!