Pickle Pub Crawl: Ferry Rides and Appetizers

Imagine combining the best of Victoria’s vibrant waterfront with a relaxed, social atmosphere and a splash of local culture. That’s exactly what the Pickle Pub Crawl offers. With an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 from nearly 50 reviews, this tour has clearly struck a chord with travelers looking for a lively, authentic experience in British Columbia’s capital city.

What makes this tour stand out? First, the unique combination of ferry rides and pub hopping means you get to see Victoria from the water as well as from its charming streets. Second, the small group size and the presence of a knowledgeable guide create an intimate vibe that’s perfect for making new friends. But, a potential consideration: this is a drinking-focused tour, so it’s best suited for those over 19 and comfortable with alcohol — and it runs rain or shine. Overall, if you’re into casual socializing, scenic views, and local flavor, this tour offers a memorable way to spend an afternoon.

Key Points

• Waterfront experience: Hop on ferries to travel between venues, enjoying stunning views of Victoria’s harbor.
• Local venues: Visit four hand-picked pubs that showcase Victoria’s lively bar scene.
• Cultural insights: Guides share stories about Victoria’s history and culture, enriching the experience.
• Cost-effective snacks: Enjoy free appetizers with your drink purchase, adding value to your visit.
• Small groups: Limited to 11 guests, ensuring a friendly, personalized experience.
• Duration: A compact 3-hour tour, perfect for an afternoon outing.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An Authentic Splash of Victoria’s Waterfront Charm

Starting at 10 Acres Commons, an industrial-chic gastro pub perched on Victoria’s waterfront, sets the tone for the entire experience. This lively spot provides a casual yet stylish setting to gather your group, meet your guide, and get ready for a fun journey. The tour’s focus on waterfront venues is a great choice because it offers a different perspective of the city that you might not see on foot alone.

From here, the real fun begins with ferry rides that ferry you from one pub to the next. These short boat trips are included, giving you a chance to soak in the stunning harbor views, glimpse Victoria’s skyline, and get a sense of the city’s maritime vibe. Several reviews highlight how these rides make the experience feel more special — rather than just a pub crawl, it’s a seaside adventure.

Visiting Hand-Picked Venues

The four venues included in the tour are carefully selected to show the best of Victoria’s bar scene. While the exact names of all venues aren’t listed, travelers can expect a mix of lively waterfront pubs and cozy local bars. One review mentions that the tour visits some lesser-known spots — avoiding the typical tourist-heavy areas — which helps you experience Victoria like a local.

The venues are known for their drink prices and quality, with some reviews noting that the snacks are delicious and reasonably priced. The tour emphasizes local brews and Victoria-inspired cocktails, which adds a flavorful local touch to your outing.

The Guide: Your Local Ambassador

A highlight of the experience is the role of the guide. Multiple reviews praise guides like Jack, Roberto, and Emily for their knowledge, friendliness, and ability to keep the group engaged. They share stories about Victoria’s history and culture, making the experience both fun and educational. For instance, one reviewer said, “Jack stayed responsible, even though we tried our best to get him to join in our shenanigans!” indicating guides are committed to safety while keeping the mood lively.

The small group size (max 11 guests) fosters an intimate atmosphere where everyone can mingle, ask questions, and enjoy the scenery without feeling rushed or overwhelmed.

The Food and Drink: Good Value for Money

The tour’s inclusion of free appetizers with a drink purchase is a big plus. It means you can enjoy some tasty snacks without extra cost, which helps stretch your budget and keeps you fueled for more fun. Reviewers repeatedly mention the reasonable drink prices and delicious snacks, making it a great value, especially when paired with the included ferry rides and guided experience.

It’s important to note that drinks are not included in the price, so you’ll want to budget for your own beverages. The tour is most suitable for those who enjoy social drinking and want to discover Victoria’s bar scene in a relaxed setting.

More Great Tours Nearby

Exploring Victoria’s Waterfront and Chinatown

The tour concludes in Victoria’s historic Chinatown, offering an excellent opportunity for further exploration. From here, you might choose to stroll along the streets, visit shops, or simply soak in the vibrant atmosphere. The ending point’s location is convenient for those planning to extend their visit or head to other attractions.

Practical Details: What You Need to Know

The tour costs $52 per person, which is quite reasonable considering the ferry rides, expert guiding, and appetizers included. It lasts about 3 hours, usually scheduled for the afternoon, making it easy to fit into a day of sightseeing.

Meet-up is straightforward at the northeast corner of Government Street and Humboldt Street at 10 Acres Commons. Look for the guide in a red vest — easy to spot. Since the tour runs rain or shine, bringing an umbrella or rain jacket is wise, especially if visiting during fall or winter.

The group size is limited, so booking in advance is recommended, especially during peak season. Remember, participants must be 19 or older with two pieces of ID to enjoy alcoholic beverages.

This pub crawl isn’t just about drinking; it’s about experiencing Victoria’s waterfront and local culture in a relaxed, social way. The ferry rides add a dash of maritime adventure, and the small-group setting makes it perfect for travelers who enjoy personal interaction and insider insights. Whether you’re a solo traveler, a small group of friends, or a couple looking for a fun afternoon, this experience can be tailored to your pace and interests.

The combination of scenic views, knowledgeable guides, and the chance to sample local drinks makes this a well-rounded, affordable option. Many reviews mention that guides like Jack and Roberto are fun, responsible, and full of local knowledge — vital qualities that elevate the experience beyond just a pub crawl.

This tour works beautifully for social travelers eager to meet new people and explore Victoria’s waterfront in a spontaneous, informal setting. It’s ideal for adults 19+ who enjoy casual drinking and want to learn a little about Victoria’s history and culture along the way.

Those seeking a more active, scenic experience while enjoying drinks will find this tour hits the mark. But if you’re looking for a quiet, historical, or cultural-only tour, this might not suit your interests. Pregnant women and those under 19 will need to skip, but friends and family can still enjoy the waterfront and Chinatown independently.

The Pickle Pub Crawl: Ferry Rides and Appetizers offers a lively, authentic way to experience Victoria’s waterfront, with the added bonus of scenic boat rides and local bar culture. It’s a great value at just over fifty dollars, especially with included ferry trips and free snacks. Thanks to its small-group setting, knowledgeable guides, and relaxed vibe, it’s perfect for travelers looking for a fun, social afternoon that mixes sightseeing with local flavor.

If you’re curious about Victoria’s coastal charm, want to mingle with other visitors, and enjoy the laid-back bar scene, this tour is an excellent choice. It’s a memorable way to see the city’s harbor, discover hidden gems, and walk away with stories and new friends.

Is the tour suitable for people who don’t drink alcohol?
Since the tour involves purchasing drinks to enjoy the appetizers, it’s best suited for those who are over 19 and comfortable with alcohol. If you don’t drink, you might still enjoy the scenic ferry rides and social atmosphere, but the main focus is on drinking and appetizers.

What if it rains?
The tour runs rain or shine. It’s wise to bring a rain jacket or umbrella, especially during the wetter months, as the ferry rides and outdoor venues will be exposed to weather.

How many people participate in each tour?
The maximum group size is 11 guests, creating an intimate and friendly environment. If fewer than four people book, the tour may be rescheduled or refunded.

Are the ferry rides included in the price?
Yes, the tour includes two harbor ferry rides that connect the waterfront venues, adding a scenic touch and a break from walking.

Where exactly do I meet the guide?
Meet at the northeast corner of Government Street and Humboldt Street, inside 10 Acres Commons. Look for the guide wearing a red vest — a quick and easy spot.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Reserving now and paying later offers flexibility as your plans evolve.

This tour’s charm lies in its blend of scenic views, local culture, and social fun, making Victoria’s waterfront even more memorable. It’s best suited for travelers who want a relaxed, engaging way to explore the city’s maritime side — and don’t mind a bit of rain or a lively pub atmosphere.

You can check availability for your dates here: