A group of us total 11 couples are going on a cruise in May. We are flying into
Victoria on a Saturday night. I was wondering if you think we could do walking tour of down town, catch a shuttle bus to Buchart Gardens and then catch ferry to Vancouver Sunday evening and have a shuttle bus pick us up in Vancouver. Our ship leave Monday afternoon. Or do you think we should hire a tour company for the day. we are an adventurous group I just worry about all of us and our luggage getting on ferry etc.
Any advice would be greatly appreciated. The tour bus I contacted wanted so much
because of the cost for thebus to go on ferry and then return after it took us to Vancouver.
Thanks.
Ann
Traveling to Victoria BC in May with 10 couples
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Victoria is a very walkable city so you should be fine on a walking tour. There are also hop on hop off bus tours that will take you round to all the major sights. Be sure to check out the Royal BC Museum, which is right at the inner harbour, as it is first rate!
As for your group "moving about" together.....
The shuttle from the airport is a small bus.www.victoriaairportshuttle.com I am sure if you contacted them before you arrive, they could have an extra bus on hand to take you all in to Victoria. I see on their website that they also do tours to Butchart Gardens which might work for your group. There is also an express tour bus that goes to Butchart Gardens from the bus depot which is behind the Empress Hotel.
As for getting to Vancouver via the ferry, taking the bus from downtown Victoria to downtown Vancouver is very easy and efficient. www.pacificcoach.com. The bus leaves from the bus depot behind the Empress hotel, takes you right on the ferry, and delivers you to the bus depot in downtown Vancouver. I have seen "groups" ride the bus and I think if you contact the bus company they will be able to accomodate you with no problem. I really do not see the need for you to have to hire a tour company. Just contact the above mentioned companies and I am sure they will be able to help you.
Happy planning!
Just to add to Amygirls info the pacific coach bus line as you will see on their website has buses that will take you directly to the cruise ship terminal. It is very convenient as they will drop the luggage in the appropriate spot once you get to the terminal so you won't have to handle it. Be sure to take amygirl's suggestion to call ahead to bus line to let them know the size of your group. They add buses as necessary and need advance notice of large groups.
Enjoy your visit!
Thank you so much. Have a wonderful new Year.