Pickle Pub Crawl in Victoria’s Inner Harbour

This review takes a close look at the Pickle Pub Crawl in Victoria’s Inner Harbour, a tour designed for those who want to see the city’s highlights while sampling its local beverage scene. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveler, this tour offers a blend of scenic views, engaging storytelling, and a taste of Victoria’s laid-back pub culture.

What makes this experience appealing? First, the unique water taxi rides give a fresh perspective of Victoria’s picturesque harbor and waterfront neighborhoods. Second, the multiple stops at local pubs and historic sites provide not just drinks but a chance to soak in the local vibe and stories behind each spot.

However, it’s worth noting that some travelers have found the snacks and drink inclusions a bit inconsistent, and certain reviews point out that the tour’s organizational flow could improve. For those who enjoy meeting new people and exploring Victoria’s waters and pubs in one go, this tour is likely to hit the mark. It’s particularly ideal for social travelers, first-timers, or anyone looking to combine sightseeing with some relaxing pub time.

Key Points

• Authentic Victoria views: Experience harbor ferry rides that reveal the city’s colorful waterfront neighborhoods.
• Local pub culture: Stop at traditional pubs and historic sites with lively atmospheres and local character.
• Informative guides: Many reviews praise guides for their friendly, knowledgeable approach.
• Flexible experience: Includes optional snacks and drinks, with a focus on social fun rather than heavy meals.
• Value for money: At around $52, you get a mix of transport, sightseeing, and tastings that many find worthwhile.
• Some organizational quirks: A few reviews mention timing issues or less-than-stellar snacks, so expectations should be realistic.

Introduction and Overall Impression

The Pickle Pub Crawl promises an afternoon of fun, scenic harbor views, and a taste of Victoria’s vibrant pub scene—all wrapped into roughly three hours. From the moment you start at the Inner Harbour, you’re set for a lively exploration that combines water taxi rides, historic landmarks, and local pubs.

What we love most about this tour are the charming boat rides across the harbor, which add a playful, almost childlike sense of adventure to the experience. Plus, the casual, social atmosphere at each stop makes it easy to connect with fellow travelers and locals alike.

A potential drawback? The included snacks and drinks are somewhat variable, and some guests note that the organization could be sharper—so it’s best suited for those who enjoy a relaxed, informal outing rather than a meticulously curated experience.

This tour is perfect for adventurous spirits, first-time visitors eager to cover multiple sights effortlessly, and those who appreciate a good mix of scenery, culture, and casual drinking.

The Itinerary: What to Expect at Each Stop

Start at Inner Harbour

The tour kicks off at Victoria’s beloved Inner Harbour, a hub of activity and beautiful views. Here, you meet your guide and board your first harbor ferry. Expect to be introduced to iconic sights like the Empress Hotel and the Parliament Buildings—though the main focus is on the scenic water journey.

This initial stop is about 40 minutes long and involves free access to the harbor area, giving you time to snap photos and get a feel for the city’s heart. Reviewers repeatedly mention how the ferry ride adds a special touch, offering a different perspective of Victoria’s waterfront.

Bastion Square and Old Town

Next, you land in Bastion Square, a bustling historic district filled with lively pubs and boutique shops. One of the pubs here has been a local fixture for 30 years, featuring live music every night and on-tap drinks. Expect another 40-minute stop with plenty of opportunity to chat, soak in the atmosphere, and enjoy the views of the harbor.

Guests often comment on the lively, friendly ambiance and the chance to relax in an authentic setting. The pub’s outdoor area, with views of the waterfront, is particularly appreciated.

Fisherman’s Wharf

The third stop is at Fisherman’s Wharf, one of Victoria’s most colorful and charming neighborhoods. Imagine floating houses, lively seaplanes, and a whole area dedicated to community and quirky charm. Guests usually spend around 40 minutes here, enjoying cold beers, pizza, and people watching.

Many reviews highlight the spectacular scenery and the lively buzz of Fisherman’s Wharf. Watching the seaplanes take off and land, or exploring the floating homes, makes this stop a highlight. If you’re into casual, picturesque environments, this is a perfect spot.

Chinatown and BC’s Second Oldest Brewery

The final stop takes you to Victoria’s Chinatown, a historic area with narrow alleyways and heritage buildings. Here, you’ll visit one of BC’s oldest breweries, which doubles as a restaurant. The tour lasts about an hour, giving you time to enjoy more drinks, good food, and the historic scenery.

Guests consistently praise the brewery’s setting—an old building with views of the blue bridge—and note that the beer selections are usually good, with some reviewers pointing out the quality of the Brussels sprouts appetizer as particularly memorable.

Transportation, Group Size, and Price

The tour’s private transportation—mostly the harbor water taxis—adds a fun, relaxed element. The group size is limited to 11 travelers, ensuring a personable experience. The overall cost is about $52 per person, which covers the water taxi rides, guide, and a few snacks.

Many reviewers feel this price offers solid value for the variety of sights, the scenic rides, and the social atmosphere. But it’s worth noting that drinks are not included in the price, and additional purchases are on you, which some guests find a bit confusing or unexpected.

What the Reviews Say

The reviews paint a generally positive picture: many praise guides for their knowledge, friendliness, and sense of humor. Several mention the water taxi rides as a highlight, offering scenic views that you wouldn’t easily access otherwise.

One reviewer called the tour “a lot of fun” and appreciated the variety of venues, while others enjoyed the relaxed pace and social vibe.

However, not all feedback is glowing. Some travelers found the snacks to be minimal or inconsistent, with comments about waiting times and organizational hiccups. For example, one reviewer felt the snacks were “difficult to share” and not very substantial, which might be a consideration for those expecting a full meal or more generous tastings.

The Value Proposition

At around $52, this experience balances sightseeing, transportation, and tastings reasonably well. The harbor ferry rides alone are worth the price, giving you a distinctive view of Victoria’s waterfront that many visitors overlook. The guided component ensures you’re not just wandering aimlessly, and the social aspect can lead to fun conversations and new friendships.

If you’re someone who enjoys casual drinking, scenic boat rides, and exploring neighborhoods like Fisherman’s Wharf and Chinatown, you will find this tour a worthwhile introduction to Victoria. But if you prefer highly curated, food-focused tours or expect included drinks, you might find this tour too informal or variable.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This tour is ideal for adventurous travelers, first-time visitors to Victoria, and those who enjoy a mix of sightseeing and social drinking. It’s perfect if you want to see different parts of the city without spending hours on your own or organizing multiple transportation elements.

It’s also suited for groups or couples looking for a relaxed, fun afternoon with a scenic twist. However, if you need a more structured, food-centric experience or prefer all-inclusive drinks and snacks, you might want to consider other options.

The Pickle Pub Crawl offers a lively, scenic way to experience Victoria’s harbor and historic neighborhoods. The highlight for many is the harbor ferry rides—a refreshing departure from traditional walking tours—and the chance to relax at local pubs with a friendly guide.

While some reviews point out inconsistent snacks and organizational hiccups, the overall vibe remains upbeat and social. It’s a flexible, affordable option that balances sightseeing with casual drinking, making it perfect for those who love exploring in a laid-back setting.

This tour is especially suited for travelers who enjoy a mix of water views, local culture, and meeting new people. If you’re after a fun, informal way to discover Victoria’s waterfront and pub scene, this experience is definitely worth considering.

Is drinks included in the tour price?
No, drinks are not included. Guests are encouraged to purchase their own beverages at each stop.

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 3 hours, including all stops and ferry rides.

What is the group size?
The maximum group size is 11 travelers, keeping the experience intimate and personable.

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

Are snacks provided?
Snacks are included if you purchase a drink at each stop, but reviews suggest the snacks vary and may be minimal.

Can I bring a service animal?
Yes, service animals are allowed on the tour.

What transportation is used?
Private transportation includes harbor ferry rides, which are part of the experience and essential for the scenic aspect.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Most travelers can participate, but note that it’s geared towards adults enjoying beverages. Reviewers mention it as a relaxing, social outing.

What if I need to cancel?
You can cancel for free up to 24 hours before the tour. Refunds are provided if canceled within this window.

Is the tour offered in languages other than English?
Currently, it is offered in English only.

Who operates the tour?
Hidden Victoria Tours runs this experience, with many guides praised for their friendliness and knowledge.

In short, if you’re looking for a relaxed, scenic way to enjoy Victoria’s harbor, pubs, and local culture—preferably with some fun water taxi rides—this tour offers a memorable, value-packed outing.