Plan Your Journey
Tour 02VI-EN · Victoria, Malahat & Nanaimo
Gardens, Coastlines & Island Charm.
A two-day Vancouver Island journey blending celebrated gardens, Victoria’s heritage waterfront, elevated forest panoramas and the rugged coastal beauty of Nanaimo.
Vancouver Island, beyond the harbour
Embark on a two-day journey through Vancouver Island that brings together world-renowned gardens, historic neighbourhoods, waterfront communities and some of the island’s most memorable natural landscapes. Accompanied by an experienced guide, the route moves from Victoria’s cultural heart to the forest canopy and rugged shores farther north.
Day one begins with a scenic ferry crossing through the Gulf Islands before arriving at Butchart Gardens, followed by Victoria’s Chinatown, Beacon Hill Park, Mile Zero and colourful Fisherman’s Wharf. The evening opens into time around the Inner Harbour, framed by the Parliament Buildings, Fairmont Empress and the city’s distinctive coastal atmosphere.
Day two reveals a different side of Vancouver Island. Walk high above the forest at Malahat SkyWalk, continue to the rocky shoreline and coastal trails of Neck Point Park near Nanaimo, then return through the Gulf Islands by ferry. Together, the two days create a rich portrait of island heritage, natural beauty and West Coast character.
Experience highlights
Your two-day island journey
Travel through Vancouver Island at a relaxed pace, balancing cultural landmarks and waterfront neighbourhoods with forest viewpoints, coastal trails and scenic ferry crossings. Each day reveals a different dimension of the island’s character.
Day 1
Begin your Vancouver Island escape with a scenic BC Ferries crossing from Tsawwassen to Swartz Bay. Watch the Georgia Strait, Gulf Islands and Coast Mountains unfold around you, with the possibility of spotting seals, sea lions or even whales along the way.
Scenic ferry crossingStep into the world-renowned Butchart Gardens, a 55-acre National Historic Site created within a transformed limestone quarry. Explore the dramatic Sunken Garden, tranquil Japanese Garden and seasonal displays that shift from spring tulips and summer roses to enchanting winter illuminations.
Time to explore the gardensTravel through one of North America’s oldest Chinese communities and take in its distinctive architecture, narrow alleyways and vibrant streetscape from the comfort of the vehicle. This brief narrated pass-by offers a glimpse into a cultural heritage that remains an important part of Victoria’s identity.
Narrated pass-byContinue through the lush landscapes of Beacon Hill Park, where Garry oak trees, gardens and open green spaces reflect Victoria’s relaxed character. Nearby, Mile Zero marks the symbolic western terminus of the Trans-Canada Highway and is home to the Terry Fox Memorial, a meaningful Canadian landmark overlooking the Strait of Juan de Fuca.
Scenic city landmarksExperience one of Victoria’s most colourful waterfront communities, where floating homes, fishing boats, local shops and casual seafood spots create a distinctly West Coast atmosphere. Enjoy time to stroll the marina, photograph the harbour and take in the lively maritime character just minutes from the Inner Harbour.
Waterfront explorationCheck in to your Victoria hotel before enjoying dinner time and an evening at leisure around the Inner Harbour. Parliament Buildings, the Fairmont Empress, Government Street, seaplanes and the waterfront promenade create an elegant setting for exploring the city at your own pace.
Evening at your leisureDay 2
Check out of your Victoria hotel and begin the journey north through Vancouver Island’s forested interior and coastal landscapes. The second day shifts from heritage and harbour scenery to elevated viewpoints and rugged shoreline environments.
Rise above the forest canopy on the Malahat SkyWalk, where an accessible elevated boardwalk leads to a striking 10-storey spiral lookout tower. From the summit, take in sweeping 360-degree views of coastal mountains, forests, islands and the shimmering waters of the Salish Sea, with the option of a spiral slide on the return journey.
Panoramic forest experienceDiscover one of Nanaimo’s most beautiful coastal parks, known for rugged shoreline, forested trails, rocky bluffs, sandy coves and sandstone formations shaped by the sea. Walk through tranquil coastal scenery and enjoy panoramic views across the Salish Sea and nearby islands.
Coastal nature stopConclude your island journey with a scenic BC Ferries voyage from Duke Point back to Tsawwassen. Relax as forested islands, coastal waterways and sparkling ocean views provide a memorable final perspective on Vancouver Island before returning to the Lower Mainland.
Scenic return sailingConvenient complimentary pick-up
Complimentary pick-up is available from the listed Vancouver and Richmond hotels, as well as the Canada Place area. Your designated location and exact pick-up time will be confirmed after booking.
655 Burrard Street, Vancouver, BC V6C 2R7
1000 Burrard Street, Vancouver, BC V6Z 2R9
900 West Georgia Street, Vancouver, BC V6C 2W6
900 Canada Place Way, Vancouver, BC V6C 3L5
1038 Canada Place Way, Vancouver, BC V6C 0B9
300-999 Canada Place Way, Vancouver, BC V6C 3B5
8811 River Road, Richmond, BC V6X 3P8
Room arrangements & pricing
Tour pricing is in Canadian dollars and varies by room arrangement and guest composition. All prices shown exclude 5% GST.
Tour details
Your island story unfolds over two days
From Victoria’s celebrated gardens and heritage waterfront to forest-canopy panoramas and Nanaimo’s rugged shoreline, experience the island through a well-paced journey of culture and scenery.