3 Ways to Enjoy the Water in Victoria, BC

Image: Robin Zebrowski

Victoria in the summertime… There really is no better way to get to know the city than by heading out onto the water. Not only is it a great way to stay cool when the temperature rises, but you’ll get a whole new perspective on the city—and BC…
 
1. Grab a Paddle
The Gorge Waterway is a narrow tidal inlet that connects Victoria Harbour to Portage Inlet. The gorgeous body of water is a thriving fish and wildlife habitat and has important spiritual significance for First Nations. Paddling past the beautiful homes, parks and bridges of the Gorge Waterway will give you a completely different perspective than the Inner, Middle and Outer Harbour.  Visit Ocean River Sports for information on kayak rentals and tours.
 
2. Meet Duffy
‘Duffys’ are the zero emission electric boats from the Victoria Harbour Ferry that take passengers on 75-minute tours up the historic Gorge Waterway. This is a leisurely way to see the area’s historic homes, working shipyards and—if you time it right—the reversing falls under Tillicum Bridge. The tours start at the Empress Dock.
 
3. Go Big or Go Home
The waters around Victoria are a thriving habitat for marine life, including orca, gray, humpback and minke whales. In fact, there are three orca pods—making up some 80 whales—in Victoria’s waters alone. There are plenty of tour operators in Victoria who are happy to get you out onto the water for a magical experience with these amazing creatures.
 
If you’d like to get a whole new perspective of Victoria from the water, book yourself a break at The Days Inn Victoria Uptown. Offering breathtaking views of the Gorge Waterway by day and the sparkling lights of the BC Legislature Building by night, the hotel is a fantastic base for a break in Victoria.

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