Cruise Port Guide: Victoria, BC
Victoria, British Columbia is a Canadian cruise port located across the bay from Seattle, Washington. Cruise ships dock at the Ogden Point Pier which is within walking distance of downtown. Make sure to check with your cruise line before packing for your cruise if you will need your passport to go here. There are mixed answers floating around on the internet and checking with your cruise line is the best option.
Victoria is an easily walkable city, however, the farther you go the more things are spread out. Victoria has a city bus system that you should utilize if you plan on leaving the downtown or James Bay area. Water taxis are another way that some choose to skip the walk to the downtown area. Don’t underestimate the walking distances if you have limited time in port, it takes time to get around the city.
best things to do
Fisherman’s Wharf
This is a unique stop for any urban explorer. The grassy park opens up to the Fisherman’s wharf where you will find food and drink vendors, house boats and dock seating. You could spend a few hours enjoying the view and food if you so wanted to. The house boats are private residences however, so please be mindful that it is still someone’s neighborhood you’re exploring.
Beacon Hill Park
If you’re looking for a perfect picnic spot, this would be it. There are rose gardens, stone bridges, fountains and ponds to contribute to the natural beauty. Just a fun fact, Winston Churchill planted a tree here in 1929.
Craigdarroch Castle
The castle was built during Queen Victoria’s reign, between 1887 and 1890, and is now a historic site. Take a trip back in time to the Victorian era by taking a guided tour of the mansion. Admission is $20 per person, they do offer child and senior discounts.
Miniature World
Miniature World has over 85 miniature dioramas on display and a wide variety of themes. From Camelot to Swiss Family Robinson, they have the scenes. Admission is $19 per person and they offer child discounts. A thing to note: if you visit Victoria in the evening, they close rather early.
View the fairmont empress
The Fairmont Empress makes it onto most travel guides, but for the most part it is a photography stop. The hotel is a National Historic Site that overlooks the bay. If you want to venture inside they have several bars and restaurants to visit.
view the parliament buildings
These beautiful buildings are the home of the Legislative Assembly of British Columbia. If you want to take a self guided tour of the buildings, they are open weekdays 8:30 am to 4:30 pm. Be sure to check online before you visit in case they are closed for a special event.
Victoria, British Columbia is a beautiful stop on an Alaska cruise. No matter how long you have in port you will be able to find something to do. If you visit in the evening and have a chance to see the lights on the Parliament buildings it is even better.