Will be arriving at Vancouver Airport about 2PM on Fri 8/14. Would like to go to Victoria, stay for Fri and Sat., then leave on Sun afternoon to return to Vancouver downtown -- stay Sun. night somewhat near Canada Place in preparation for 2PM cruise departure on Mon 8/17.

My research so far seems to indicate that the PCL bus from Vancouver Airport to Victoria, and then back from Victoria to Vancouver downtown is the best means of transportation to do this. Are there any better alternatives?

Best depends upon your definition. PCL is the most common mode, but if money is of little or no concern, helijet is an option, http://www.helijet.com/n/

Renting a car would be another option so you can be on your own schedule rather than the bus schedule.

Thanks to all for your responses. Helijet really looks cool, but I'm going to try to save my nickels and dimes for flightseeing when I get to Alaska. I wasn't too interested in renting a car, so it looks like i'll go with PCL. Is there anything special I need to know about the schedules, etc.?

Agai, I thank you for your insight.

Why don't you stay in Victoria and then take the PCL bus directly to the cruise ship termina. Here is their website so you can check schedules http://www.pacificcoach.com/Schedule/Cruiseship

Either way enjoy your visit and cruise.

Since you're going to be in Victoria on a Saturday evening, I highly suggest going out to Butchart Gardens and experiencing the best fireworks anywhere. Go out around 5:00, take a picnic with you, wander around the gardens and then find a spot on the grass to sit and watch the fireworks.