Butchart Gardens

[cruisesusie]

We would like to go to Butchart Gardens - can it be done on our own? How far is it from the pier.

 

Thanks,

Susan

[LeftcoastBC]

Yes via public transport (need lots of time for tour and getting to a fro) Travel time from downtown just over an hour

 

REntal car best way and see the area about 25 K & a relaxed 30 mins

 

Tours available from Inner harbour tourist booth . leave regularly. Walk or taxi or bus from pier to Tourist booth 20 mins/5 mins/10 mins

[Keith1010]

You can do it on your own and that includes even getting a taxi.

 

Keith

[Putterdude]

Yes, it can be done on your own depending upon your time in port. If you have a late afternoon arrival then stick with a ship's tour. Otherwise it is about 15 miles or 35 to 45 mins away from the pier in a rural area of Victoria and you have a couple of options of getting there.

• if you can get together with another couple you could rent car and drive.
  
• you can take the CVS Cruise Victoria Shuttle from the terminal to the Empress Hotel and transfer to their (CVS) bus out to the Gardens.
  
• you can take a transit bus from just outside the cruise terminal gates, transfer to a #75 bus at the Royal Oak exchange...just tell the operator what you are up to and they will help you....reverse the process for coming back to the ship...cost $2.50 pp each way, CDN funds only...$1.65 if over 65.
  

http://www.cvscruisevictoria.com/

[cruisesusie]

Thanks everyone for your replies. There are many options to do it on our own. Looking forward to seeing the gardens.

 

Susan

[maritaysa]

We did it on our own in 2009 when we were on a shoestring budget. The local buses were very easy to use, and the scenery is beautiful!

[Putterdude]

The transit buses are certainly an option if you dock in Victoria in the early to mid-afternoon. However it is not something to consider with a late afternoon or early evening stop if only because the bus service does get a bit intermittent in the evenings.

[agabbymama]

Absolutely, easy to do on your own. We rented a car from Budget, and they pick you up at the ship and take you to their office.

 

Butterfly Gardens and State Winery are just up the the road a bit from Butchart Gardens. If you have a long enough Port time, easy to visit all 3.

 

Have a great trip!