Recommended itinerary: 2 Destinations, 4 Days
Travel advisory:
Busy weekend expected
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Posted: Thursday, July 30, 2026
Busy weekend expected
BC Day long weekend is the busiest weekend of the year for ferry travel on the coast. Our major routes between the Lower Mainland and Vancouver Island are expected to be at or near capacity for vehicles during peak times.
Be prepared for sailing waits if a booking has not been made in advance of travel. Depending on when you arrive, there may be limited or no space available for drive-up vehicles. Check Current Conditions before leaving for the terminal for the latest sailing and capacity information, and check Service Notices for operational updates.
If your plans are flexible, consider taking transit and travel as a foot passenger. Walk-on bookings are available on our major routes at no additional cost and are recommended to help secure your preferred sailing. BC Day long weekend travel tips can be found here.
EXPERIENCE
Victoria Getaway
Explore the timeless charm of Victoria
Escape to Victoria for a charming coastal getaway filled with garden strolls, ocean adventures, and historic elegance. Explore vibrant downtown streets, enjoy local cuisine, and soak in the natural beauty of Vancouver Island’s southern tip.
Use this recommended itinerary as a guide for planning your trip through Southern Vancouver Island.
RECOMMENDATION 1
Metro Vancouver to Victoria
Start your adventure with a scenic ferry ride from Metro Vancouver (Tsawwassen) to Swartz Bay on Vancouver Island. On the way to Victoria, stop at the iconic Butchart Gardens to stroll through vibrant floral displays, then step into the lush, tropical world of the Victoria Butterfly Gardens, where over 70 species of butterflies flutter freely. You will also encounter tropical birds, fish, poison dart frogs, tortoises, a large iguana, and even a flamingo. After a day of exploring, head into Victoria to relax and enjoy a delicious meal at one of the city’s many vibrant restaurants.
Ferry route:
Metro Vancouver (Tsawwassen) to Victoria (Swartz Bay)
Images provided by FlyBoy Productions
RECOMMENDATION 2
Day Trip to Cowichan Valley
Spend the day winding along the scenic Malahat Highway toward the Cowichan Valley. Stop at the Malahat SkyWalk to climb the 250-metre spiral tower for panoramic views. Continue into the Cowichan Valley, referred to as “Canada’s Provence," where rolling vineyards, farm stands, and small-batch producers await. With 13 wineries and countless craft makers, it is a haven for food and drink lovers.
RECOMMENDATION 3
Victoria
Discover all that downtown Victoria has to offer from morning till night. Begin your day with a delicious brunch at one of the city’s popular spots, then head out on a whale-watching tour across the Salish Sea, spotting orcas, porpoises, seals, otters, sea lions, cormorants, and bald eagles along the way. Finish your day by dining at a waterfront restaurant while watching the sun set over the water.
Credit: Destination BC/Jordan Dyck
RECOMMENDATION 5
Victoria to Metro Vancouver
Wrap up your trip by renting a bike to explore the city’s scenic routes, charming neighbourhoods, and beautiful parks. In the afternoon, indulge in a traditional Afternoon Tea, soaking in the elegance and charm that define the city. With your appetite satisfied, take a leisurely drive up to Swartz Bay to begin your journey home.
Ferry route:
Victoria (Swartz Bay) to Vancouver (Tsawwassen)20% OFF
Orca Spirit Adventures
VICTORIA, BC
Enjoy 20% off a whale-watching tour when you book with BC Ferries before Oct 31.
BEST SELLER
Malahat SkyWalk
MALAHAT, BC
Climb the 250m Spiral Tower at your own pace, wander the elevated TreeWalk through ancient Douglas Fir and Arbutus, and race down the world-famous Spiral Slide as many times as you dare.
FAMILY FAVOURITE
Victoria Butterfly Gardens
VICTORIA, BC
Wander through a lush, simulated rainforest where thousands of tropical butterflies and moths flutter all around you.
UP TO 15% OFF
Oak Bay Beach Hotel
VICTORIA, BC
Enjoy up to 15% off the best available rate when you book online using the link below.
Blackout dates may apply.
10% OFF
Villa Eyrie Resort
MALAHAT, BC
Enjoy 10% off the best available rate with a minimum 2-night stay when you use code BCFERRY online to book your next stay.
Blackout dates may apply.
15% OFF
Chateau Victoria Hotel & Suites
VICTORIA, BC
Get 15% off the best available rate on when you book online using the link below.
Blackout dates may apply.
15% OFF
Rosemead House
VICTORIA, BC
Enjoy 15% off the best available rate when you use code BCFERRIES online to book your next stay.
Blackout dates may apply.
20% OFF
The Vic, Ascend Hotel Collection
VICTORIA, BC
Enjoy 20% off the best available rate on your next stay when you book with the link below.
Valid for stays through Sep 30, 2026. Blackout dates may apply.
15% OFF
Inn at Laurel Point
VICTORIA, BC
Enjoy 15% off the best available rate when you book online using the link below.
Blackout dates may apply.
10% OFF
Hotel Grand Pacific
VICTORIA, BC
Enjoy 10% off the best available rate when you book online using the link below.
Blackout dates may apply.
10% OFF
Best Western Plus Carlton Plaza
VICTORIA, BC
Enjoy 10% off the best available rate when you use code FERRY62063 online to book your next stay.
Blackout dates may apply.
10% OFF
Parkside Hotel & Spa
VICTORIA, BC
Enjoy 10% off the best available rate when you use code FBCF online to book your next stay.
Blackout dates may apply.
20% OFF
Days Inn on the Harbour
VICTORIA, BC
Get 20% off the best available rate when you book online using the link below.
Blackout dates may apply.
