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VICTORIA GORGE TOUR

Quick Details

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Adults Ages 19+
CA$50
Youth Ages 6-18 yrs
CA$30
Child Under 6 yrs
Free

Gorge Waterway Tour

Step back in time, relax and enjoy this scenic 75 minute guided tour featuring historic neighborhoods, working shipyards, and more!

Your guide will share the rich history of the Lekwungen speaking peoples, who are known today as the Songhees Nation and the Esquimalt Nation, and who have lived on the land since time immemoriam. Discover the politics, culture, and everyday life of the early Victorian residents. Learn how the Gorge once nearly lost to decades of industrial pollution, is recovering as a result of extensive local restoration efforts and responsible business practices. These resilient ecosystems are returning to healthy systems supporting new life.

This intimate tour gets you up close and personal with some of our favorite things – ocean views, marine life and history.


TOUR HIGHLIGHTS

Each of our tours is created around our Five Cornerstones. This guarantees you the quintessential Victoria experience while giving our captains the freedom to share local secrets and personal memories of their home.

History: Learn about the Esquimalt Nation and Songhees Nation, who lived in the area before the arrival of European navigators, the Victorian settlers who contributed to the early development of the city, and how Victoria has grown over the years.

Architecture: Get a unique view of the many original buildings that line the Inner Harbour, compare the modern skyline to historic photographs, and hear the tragic tale of the famous architect Francis Rattenbury.

Harbour Life: Glimpse into Victoria’s rich naval history, experience the hustle and bustle of everyday life in the port, and you might even see one of the many sailing and boating events.

Aircraft: Look to the skies and learn about the role Victoria played in the World Wars, or watch seaplanes land and take off right beside you on the water.

Wildlife: Victoria is home to an abundance of wildlife, including sea otters, seals and sea lions, blue herons, bald eagles and, of course, magnificent orca whales.


TICKETS + DEPARTURE

Tickets can be purchased online or from the Empress Dock. Same day ‘walk-up’ bookings are available on a first come first serve basis from our staff at The Empress dock or from any of our Captains.

All tours leave from The Empress dock located in the marina in front of the Empress Hotel.


QUESTIONS

Find answers to our most frequently asked questions. Still have questions? Our friendly staff are always happy to help! Give us a call: 250.708.0201 or ask one of our dock crew.