Discover Victoria’s Inner Harbour with the Pickle Pub Crawl

A 3-hour journey through Victoria’s lively waterfront and historic neighborhoods, the Pickle Pub Crawl offers a fun mix of scenic ferry rides, local brews, and vibrant pubs. Led by engaging guides, you’ll explore some of the city’s top spots—from the iconic Empress Hotel and Parliament Building to Fisherman’s Wharf and Chinatown—all while enjoying tasting opportunities and stunning views. Costing around $52 per person, this tour is perfect for those who want a relaxed but lively way to see the city’s highlights and sample its local flavors.

What we love about this experience is the unique combination of water transportation and pub culture, which makes the tour stand out from typical city food walks. Plus, the small-group setting ensures a more personal and engaging experience, with plenty of opportunities to chat with locals and fellow travelers. The ferry rides are not just transportation—they’re part of the adventure, giving you sights you wouldn’t get from land alone.

One thing to consider is that drinks are not included, so you’ll want to budget for additional beverages if you plan to sample extensively. Also, some reviews mention the walking involved, which varies in intensity but is manageable for most.

This tour suits adults and travelers who enjoy a mix of scenic views, local brews, and a lively social atmosphere. Whether you’re visiting Victoria for a weekend or just want a different way to explore the city’s waterfront, this experience offers a memorable taste of both culture and scenery.

Key Points

Unique transportation: Experience Victoria’s sights from a harbor ferry, combining scenic views with pub hopping.
Local flavors: Taste Victoria-inspired cocktails and local beers at multiple stops.
Small-group vibe: Intimate tours with expert guides foster better conversations and local insights.
Waterfront focus: Includes visits to Fisherman’s Wharf and Chinatown, highlighting Victoria’s historic and vibrant neighborhoods.
Flexible options: Snacks are available with drink purchases; drinks are not included in the ticket price.
Customer satisfaction: The tour maintains a strong rating of 4.6 based on over 100 reviews, with many travelers praising guides and scenery.

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A Deep Dive into the Victoria Pickle Pub Crawl

If you’re looking for a way to combine Victoria’s scenic waterways with its lively pub scene, this tour delivers on both fronts. It’s designed to be more than just a pub crawl—it’s an experience that marries stunning views and local culture with a relaxed, social atmosphere. For around $52, you get a three-hour journey that takes you from the Inner Harbour to some of the city’s most beloved spots, all while traveling between venues on a harbor ferry.

The Itinerary: What to Expect

The tour kicks off in Victoria’s iconic Inner Harbour, a bustling hub framed by historic landmarks like the Empress Hotel and the Parliament Buildings. Here, you’ll start with a local pub, soaking in the harbour views while enjoying your first taste of Victoria’s drink scene. The 40-minute visit offers a chance to appreciate the city’s waterfront ambiance and snap some photos of the skyline.

Next, you’ll hop on a ferry to Bastion Square, a charming historic area with lively live music every night. The pub here is a local staple with over 30 years of history, offering unlimited items on tap—a real treat for beer lovers. Reviewers love the vibe here, with one praising the “amazing views” and “great live music.”

Afterward, a water taxi whisks you over to Fisherman’s Wharf, a colorful floating neighborhood packed with boats, vendors, and excellent people-watching. Expect to enjoy cold beers, pizza, and the lively seaside atmosphere. Many travelers mention how “the views and the people watching are the best in the city,” and some quote their tours as “so much fun.”

The final stop is in Victoria’s Chinatown, where you’ll visit the second-oldest brewery in BC. Set in a beautiful historic building, this brewery offers a full restaurant experience with more than just beer—expect a chance to try some local brews, and perhaps a meal if you wish. Our guides typically spend about an hour here, giving you ample time to soak in the ambiance and enjoy the local flavors.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

One of the biggest draws is the combination of water travel and pub culture. Many reviews highlight how the ferry rides add a special dimension to the experience. As Jack or Elizabeth, your guides, share tidbits about Victoria’s history and culture, you’ll find the tour both entertaining and educational.

Another highlight is the variety of venues. From the historic Empress Hotel to the lively Fisherman’s Wharf and Chinatown brewery, each stop offers a different vibe. The diversity allows you to experience Victoria’s different sides—luxurious, rustic, and historic—all within a manageable walking distance.

Authentic Feedback from Travelers

Reviewers consistently praise the knowledgeable guides. One mentions Jack as “phenomenal,” while another calls Kristen “incredible.” Their friendly, engaging style makes the tour more memorable, blending interesting stories with practical tips.

Many travelers also highlight the views—“the harbor ferries are a great way to see Victoria from the water,” and the scenic waterfront makes every stop special. The small-group size (maximum 11 travelers) encourages a friendly atmosphere, making it easier to meet new friends or ask questions.

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What Could Be Better?

Some reviews point out that not all stops meet expectations—whether it’s food quality or the amount of time spent. A few mention that appetizers could be more substantial, and some felt the walking was more than they expected. Drinks are not included in the price, which has caused some disappointment when additional costs for beverages or snacks add up.

It’s also worth noting that the tour involves some walking and boat rides, so travelers should be prepared for a bit of activity. While most find this manageable, those with mobility concerns might want to consider this.

The Value for Money

For approximately $52, you’re getting a combination of scenic ferry rides, local drinks, and visits to a variety of unique venues. When you factor in the small-group setting and guided commentary, the tour offers good value—especially for travelers who enjoy a social, relaxed pace and want to see Victoria from a different perspective.

Who Would Love This Tour?

This experience is perfect for adults who enjoy a mix of sightseeing, local food, and socializing. Whether you’re interested in the waterfront, historic neighborhoods, or just want a fun way to spend an afternoon, this tour hits many marks. It’s especially suited for those who appreciate guided insights and want a more intimate experience rather than large, impersonal group tours.

Final Words

The Pickle Pub Crawl in Victoria’s Inner Harbour offers a unique take on city exploration, combining scenic ferry rides, local pubs, and waterfront views. It’s a relaxed, social way to get a taste of Victoria’s lively culture and historic charm. Guides are praised for their friendliness and knowledge, making the experience both enjoyable and informative.

While it isn’t a gourmet tour—drinks aren’t included and some appetizers are modest—the overall value lies in the combination of views, local ambiance, and fun. It’s best suited for travelers who want to combine sightseeing with casual drinking and socializing, all in a small-group setting.

If you’re looking for a lighthearted, scenic, and socially engaging way to see Victoria, this tour could be just what you need to make your trip memorable.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are drinks included in the tour price?
No, drinks are not included. You will need to purchase your beverages at each stop, although snacks are available with drink purchases.

How long does the tour last?
The tour runs for approximately 3 hours, including ferry rides, walking, and pub visits.

Is this tour suitable for all ages?
The tour is designed for adults; it involves drinking and some walking. Most travelers can participate, but those with mobility issues should consider the walking involved.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins at 10 Acres Commons, 620 Humboldt St, and ends in Victoria’s Chinatown at 500 Fisgard St, about a 10-minute walk from the start.

Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, since the tour books frequently and has a limited group size, reserving ahead is recommended.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, there’s free cancellation up to 24 hours before the tour, offering a full refund if you need to cancel.

What should I bring?
Bring comfortable shoes, a camera for the views, and some cash or card for additional drinks or snacks you might want to purchase along the way.

Whether you’re in Victoria for a quick visit or a longer stay, the Pickle Pub Crawl offers a relaxed way to see the city from its water and enjoy some of its best local spots. With friendly guides, scenic ferry rides, and a vibrant pub scene, it’s an experience that combines sightseeing and socializing—perfect for making your trip more memorable.