Pickle Pub Crawl: Ferry Rides and Appetizers

Discover Victoria’s Waterfront with the Pickle Pub Crawl: Ferry Rides and Appetizers

If you’re looking for a relaxed, authentic way to explore Victoria’s vibrant harbor scene, the Pickle Pub Crawl offers just that—plus a splash of fun on the water. For around $52 per person, you’ll spend three hours hopping between four hand-picked waterfront venues, all while cruising on scenic ferries. Led by personable guides, this tour combines local culture, friendly atmosphere, and stunning harbor views—a perfect way to kick off or wind down a visit to Victoria.

What we love most about this experience is the unique combination of land and sea, giving you an insider’s perspective of Victoria’s lively waterfront. The free appetizers with each drink make the tour both tasty and budget-friendly, and the small group size ensures a personable, engaging vibe. On the flip side, a quick heads-up: since drinks are purchased separately, your overall cost can add up if you indulge heavily. Still, this tour shines for those who enjoy socializing, scenic views, and discovering local spots without the hassle of walking or driving between venues. It’s especially suited for travelers who appreciate authentic, laid-back experiences and don’t mind spending a bit on drinks to enjoy the full experience.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Waterfront hopping on ferries offers a fresh perspective of Victoria’s harbor.
• Guided visits to four carefully selected pubs reveal local culture and friendly atmospheres.
• Free appetizers with drink purchases add value and a tasty touch.
• The small group size enhances interaction and makes the tour personal.
• Suitable for social travelers who enjoy scenic views and a lively vibe.
• Rain or shine operation means you should pack appropriately.

A Closer Look at the Pickle Pub Crawl Experience

The tour begins at 10 Acres Commons, an industrial-chic gastro pub perched right on Victoria’s waterfront. From there, your guide—whose knowledge and personable style come highly praised—leads you through a series of four curated venues. The focus on local drinks and Victoria-inspired cocktails means you get to taste the city’s flavors while exploring its vibrant harbor.

The Scenic Ferry Rides

What sets this tour apart is the use of harbor ferries to move between venues. This isn’t just a convenient mode of transportation; it’s an experience in itself. These short rides serve as a scenic highlight, offering views of Victoria’s iconic landmarks—think marinas, historic buildings, and the distant Olympic Mountains. Many reviews mention how much they enjoyed “soaking up the beauty of the city from the water,” which provides a different perspective than walking tours or pub crawls solely on land.

Visiting Hand-Picked Waterfront Pubs

The four venues are carefully selected to showcase Victoria’s waterfront culture. While the specific pubs are not listed, reviews highlight the variety and quality of the spots—ranging from bustling, lively bars to cozy, hidden gems. The small group size (max 11 guests) helps keep the atmosphere lively and intimate, so you can quickly make new friends or enjoy a relaxed chat with your guide.

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Food, Drinks, and Atmosphere

Every stop offers the chance to purchase drinks—ranging from local brews to signature cocktails. The free appetizers are a thoughtful touch, making the experience more affordable and more enjoyable. Reviewers consistently rave about the delicious snacks and the reasonably priced drinks. One reviewer mentioned that “the venues had good drink prices and reasonable snacks,” which makes the tour a real value.

The Final Destination: Chinatown

The tour wraps up in Victoria’s historic Chinatown, a vibrant neighborhood with plenty of charm. Many travelers appreciate ending the tour in such a culturally rich area, giving them the chance to explore further on their own or grab dinner after the crawl.

What’s Included and What’s Not

The included elements—guide, four pub visits, two ferry rides, and appetizers with drinks—offer a comprehensive experience. However, drinks are not included in the price, which allows you to choose your favorites and control your spending. This flexibility is appreciated by many, especially since reviews mention good drink prices and a lively, friendly atmosphere.

If you’re concerned about the overall cost, keep in mind that you’re paying for the ferry rides, guided experience, and appetizers, making it a good value for those wanting to combine sightseeing with socializing.

Practical Details and Tips

Meeting point is at the northeast corner of Government Street and Humboldt Street, inside 10 Acres Commons, in the Belmont Building. Look for the guide in a red vest—easy enough to spot. The tour runs rain or shine, so bring appropriate clothing if the weather isn’t perfect.

The maximum capacity is 11 guests, with a minimum of 4. If the group isn’t large enough, the tour will either be rescheduled or refunded. You must be 19+ with two pieces of ID to purchase alcohol—so plan accordingly.

The tour typically takes place in the afternoon, making it a great way to enjoy a relaxed, social activity after a morning of sightseeing. It’s advisable to book in advance to reserve your spot, with the flexibility of pay later if you prefer.

Why This Tour Works Well

The expert guides are frequently praised for their local knowledge, humor, and personable style—they make the experience engaging without feeling rushed. The combination of scenic ferry rides, carefully selected venues, and authentic local culture offers a genuine taste of Victoria that’s hard to match with more conventional tours.

Travelers who enjoy social activities, scenic views, and small-group experiences will find this tour particularly appealing. It’s also ideal for those who appreciate good value—getting tasty snacks, scenic transportation, and local drinks—without feeling overwhelmed.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This pub crawl is perfect if you’re looking for a relaxed, friendly, and scenic way to explore Victoria’s waterfront. It’s especially suited for travelers who enjoy socializing, discovering hidden gems, and having informal, authentic experiences. It’s also a good choice for those who don’t want to walk long distances or drive, thanks to the ferry rides that break up the day beautifully.

However, if you’re a light drinker, pregnant, or under 19, this tour isn’t suitable. Also, if you prefer a more structured, museum-style tour with historical narration, this lively pub crawl might not be your best fit.

FAQs About the Pickle Pub Crawl

What is the duration of the tour?
The tour lasts about three hours, typically scheduled in the afternoon, making it a perfect mid-day activity or a lively way to start an evening.

Where do we meet for the tour?
You meet at the northeast corner of Government Street and Humboldt Street, inside 10 Acres Commons restaurant, in the Belmont Building. Look for the guide in a red vest.

Are drinks included?
No, drinks are purchased separately, but free appetizers are provided with each drink you buy. Many reviews mention good drink prices, which helps keep the experience affordable.

Is the tour suitable in bad weather?
Yes, the tour runs rain or shine, so bring appropriate clothing if rain looks likely. The venues provide indoor seating, so you’ll stay dry during the stops.

What’s the maximum group size?
Up to 11 guests can join, ensuring a friendly and intimate experience. If the minimum of 4 isn’t met, the tour might be rescheduled or refunded.

Do I need ID to participate?
Yes, you must present two pieces of ID to purchase alcohol in Canada, and you must be 19 or older.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours prior for a full refund, giving you excellent flexibility.

Is this tour good for meeting people?
Absolutely. Several reviews mention how much they enjoyed meeting fellow travelers and forming new friendships in a lively, social atmosphere.

Final Thoughts

The Pickle Pub Crawl: Ferry Rides and Appetizers offers a delightful mix of scenic vistas, local culture, and social fun. It’s well-suited for travelers who enjoy small-group experiences, waterfront scenery, and authentic local pubs. The addition of ferry rides provides a unique twist that sets it apart from typical pub crawls, making it a memorable highlight of any Victoria trip.

This tour offers great value for those eager to experience Victoria’s waterfront from both land and sea, all while enjoying good food and drinks. Whether you’re traveling solo, as a couple, or with friends, it’s a relaxed way to connect with the city’s lively spirit and beautiful setting.

If you’re after a fun, informal, and scenic experience with knowledgeable guides, this pub crawl could become a highlight of your visit. Just be ready to enjoy yourself, keep an eye on the weather, and prepare for some tasty snacks and memorable views.

You can check availability for your dates here: