Exploring Victoria by Cruise Ship

Sailing into Victoria cruise port is one of the most welcoming sights on an Alaska itinerary. Victoria is British Columbia’s capital and offers a perfect mix of coastal scenery and historic landmarks. Whether docking for just a few hours or spending a full day, the city always has something new to uncover.

The city reflects its colonial past with iconic architecture like the Parliament Buildings and Fairmont Empress while also celebrating First Nations heritage through vibrant totem poles along the waterfront. Its location at the southern tip of Vancouver Island makes it a cultural and natural hub, where gardens, seaside paths, and lively neighborhoods come together.

With its mild climate and compact layout, Victoria is easy to explore on foot. Many of the main attractions are about a mile from the port, making a walk through the city both scenic and practical.

Over the years I have explored Victoria in every season and from both day and evening calls. During full days, I ventured to Abkhazi Garden for tea surrounded by landscaped grounds, admired the colorful floating homes at Fisherman’s Wharf, and watched seaplanes skim the bay. Each visit feels different depending on the light and the time of year.

The city’s historic charm is best captured at Craigdarroch Castle, where preserved Victorian rooms and stained glass windows highlight a different side of local history. Walking past the Fairmont Empress, I have admired it in daylight and later glowing under strings of lights at night. Beacon Hill Park always provides a touch of nature, and more often than not I have spotted a deer wandering across the lawns.

Victoria has also given me small traditions. Every trip I make a point of finding a Coffee Crisp candy bar, a Canadian favorite I have come to love. These small rituals, combined with familiar sights, make Victoria feel both comfortable and exciting each time my ship returns.