Quick Details
Victoria’s Harbour is a strategic asset, the life-blood of the city and the homeland of the Lekwungen People, known today as the Esquimalt Nation and Songhees Nation who continue to be the keepers of this beautiful land and the stories connected to it.
Get a first-hand look at how the harbour functions today as a seaport and seaplane airplane terminal as well as a cruise ship and ferry destination. Uncover the secrets of historic landmarks like the Parliament Buildings, bridges, wildlife habitats, and float home communities. Immerse yourself in the natural splendor and see why Victoria was established as the main port in Western Canada, and the capital of British Columbia.
This intimate tour gets you up close and personal with some of our favorite things – ocean views, marine life and history. For a more in depth look into our region’s Indigenous history, we highly recommend you consider including a walking or canoe tour with Explore Songhees.
Camera to capture the memories!
We accept walk-up bookings on a first come first serve basis! Tours can be booked 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.
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: Victoria harbour represents the homeland and waters of the Lekwungen speaking peoples, who are today the Songhees Nation and Esquimalt Nation and who have been here since time immemorial before the arrival of European navigators. Learn about our city’s Indigenous culture and 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.
Purchase your tickets and depart at the Empress Dock in the marina in front of The Empress Hotel. On the way back, your captain will give you the option of ending your tour at Fisherman’s Wharf or returning to the starting point at the Empress Dock.