Ever seen tiny ferries zigzagging across the water, moving like they’re part of a choreographed dance? That’s Victoria Harbour Ferries at the Inner Harbour, and they’re as fun as they look.
These charming little boats turn the harbour into your personal playground, letting you explore Victoria in the most relaxing way possible.
But is the famous Victoria Harbour ferry just for tourists, or is there real value in hopping aboard? That’s what we’re about to find out.
Victoria Harbour Ferries at Inner Harbour
Victoria Harbour Ferries have been delighting visitors since 1990, and they’ve become a signature experience in the city.
Affectionately known as ‘pickle boats,’ these small, colourful boats connect key spots around the Victoria Inner Harbour.
This makes it easy to get from one attraction to another while enjoying spectacular waterfront views—and having fun along the way!
People love them for:
- ✅ The views: You get a front-row seat to Victoria’s beautiful Inner Harbour, complete with seaplanes, historic buildings, and bustling waterfront life.
- ✅ The fun factor: These boats feel like a mini adventure rather than just transportation. Bonus points if you catch the famous “Water Ballet” on weekends!
- ✅ The convenience: Forget parking hassles—these ferries connect major attractions, making Victoria easy to explore without a car.
This is a perfect experience for anyone who loves sightseeing, photography, or just soaking up the charm of the city at a leisurely pace.
If there’s one downside, it’s that the ferries don’t run late into the evening. But honestly, that’s just an excuse to slow down and enjoy the city while the sun’s still up.
What to See While You’re at Victoria Harbour Ferries
- Fisherman’s Wharf: A colourful floating village with fresh seafood, quirky houseboats, and local marine life.
- Empress Hotel: One of Victoria’s most iconic buildings, famous for the Empress afternoon tea and historic elegance.
- BC Legislature Buildings: Beautifully lit at night and open for free tours during the day.
- Chinatown & Fan Tan Alley: Canada’s oldest Chinatown, home to a hidden alleyway filled with shops and history.
- Royal BC Museum: British Columbia’s premier historical and natural history museum.
- Beacon Hill Park: The crown jewel of Victoria’s park system.
Best Things to Do at Victoria Harbour Ferries
Take the full Victoria Harbour Ferry Tour if you only have time for one thing. It gives you the best sights, a bit of history, and a relaxing ride across the water.
Costing $45, the tour is based on the five cornerstones of history, architecture, harbour life, aircraft, and wildlife.
Other great options include hopping off at Fisherman’s Wharf for a bite to eat or timing your visit to watch the Water Ballet, where the ferries “dance” in sync.
Every Saturday around 10:30 am, five pickle boats maneuver in unison to the music, to the thrill of visitors and locals alike.
Afterwards, you can grab some of Victoria’s best fish and chips, take a Victoria whale watching tour, or simply relax and breathe in the fresh sea air.
Pickle Boat Pub Crawl
Looking to have some adult fun on the ferries? Well, this exciting Inner Harbour pub crawl uses the Pickle Boats as transportation to 4 of Victoria’s best bars in Chinatown, Fisherman’s Wharf, and Victoria West’s Songhees Park.
Unfortunately, drinks aren’t included, but you’ll receive complimentary appetizers at each stop. The real fun is in the kitsch factor, though, as this is like few pub crawls you’ll ever embark on.
Where are the Victoria Harbour Ferries in Inner Harbour?
The Victoria Harbour Ferries operate within the Inner Harbour, connecting key locations like the Empress Hotel, Fisherman’s Wharf, and Chinatown.
The main hub is the Empress Dock, across from the Empress Hotel. But you can hop on from multiple stops along the waterfront.
Harbour Ferry Key Stops
There is a total of 14 stops. Below, I’ve listed the most important for visitors.
- Chinatown – Johnson Street, Chinatown, Fan Tan Alley, the Design District.
- Empress Dock – The ferries’ Inner Harbour hub across from the Empress Hotel.
- Oldtown – Downtown Victoria, Oldtown, Bastion Square.
- Fisherman’s Wharf – Fish and chips, whale watching, kayaking and fishing.
How to See Victoria Harbour Ferries from Victoria City Centre
- By Foot: The Inner Harbour is walkable from most downtown hotels and attractions.
- By Car: Parking is available near the Empress Hotel or Fisherman’s Wharf.
- By Bus: Local transit routes stop near the Inner Harbour, and it’s a short walk to the ferry docks.
- By Bike: Bike-friendly paths lead to the docks, and there are racks nearby to lock up.
Victoria Harbour Ferry Prices
- Adults (19+) – $15.00
- Youth (6-18) – $7.00
Tickets are the same price for trips from point to point, regardless of the length of the journey.
There’s no need to book ahead—just show up and hop on. Just remember, debit or credit are preferrable, as cash is only taken at the Empress Dock or Fisherman’s Wharf.
If you’re looking to plan ahead, tickets are available at the docks or online.
Harbour Tour
A 45-minute tour that focuses on the main sites throughout the Inner Harbour. The tours cover more ground (or water!) and offer more insight from drivers. This allows you to learn more about the city while you’re onboard.
- Adults (19+) – $45.00
- Youth (6-18) – $21.00
Gorge Tour
A more extensive 75 minute tour that includes a trip to the Upper Harbour, including the beautiful Gorge between Saanich and Esquimalt.
- Adults (19+) – $50.00
- Youth (6-18) – $30.00
*Children under six are free for all journeys and tours.
To book your tickets, visit the Victoria Harbour Ferries website.
What are the Victoria Pickle Boats Like? My Experience
The first time I took a Victoria Harbour Ferry, I thought it would just be a fun way to get across the harbour. I didn’t expect it to be the highlight of my day.
The boat ride was smooth, the views were unbeatable, and the captain threw in some fun facts along the way.
What surprised me most was how peaceful it was. Even with the city buzzing around me, being out on the water felt like a little escape. It’s also ridiculously photogenic—every angle looks like a postcard.
Ever since, I make sure to take all of my out-of-town friends along for a ride. And I’ve yet to hear a complaint!
My Tips for Taking the Victoria Harbour Ferries
- Try the full tour first. It gives you the best overview, and then you can use the ferries to hop between spots.
- Go early or late afternoon. Midday can be busy, especially in summer, but mornings and late afternoons are quieter.
- Bring a card. Most ferries no longer take cash. The Empress Dock and Fisherman’s Wharf take cash and cards.
- Watch the Water Ballet if you can. It’s unique, fun, and something you won’t see anywhere else.
- Dress for the breeze. Even on warm days, the wind off the water can be chilly.
Victoria Harbour Ferries FAQ
How much does it cost to ride the ferries?
Fares vary by age, but expect to pay around $7-$15 for a single trip or $21 -$45 for a full Harbour Tour.
What payment methods do the ferries accept?
All ferries take debit and credit cards. Point-of-sale machines are available onboard for your convenience. Cash is only an option at the Empress Dock or Fisherman’s Wharf.
Do I need to book tickets in advance?
No, just show up at a dock, and you can hop on. But if you want to take a tour, booking ahead is a good idea.
Are the ferries wheelchair accessible?
Due to the ferries’ compact size, only foldable wheelchairs and strollers are allowed. Check with the ferry company ahead of time if you need an accessible boat.
Do the ferries run year-round?
Yes, but schedules vary with the seasons. Summer has more frequent service, while winter runs on a reduced schedule.
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