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About Victoria Harbour

Victoria Harbour, located in Victoria, BC, on Vancouver Island’s southeastern coast, is a stunning waterfront that captures the city’s unique charm. Known as the Inner Harbour, it’s a lively hub where floatplanes and ferries glide through the water, offering breathtaking views of the Olympic Mountains across the Strait of Juan de Fuca. The scenic causeway invites visitors to stroll, enjoy street performances, and soak in the vibrant atmosphere. As a gateway to British Columbia’s capital, Victoria Harbour blends natural beauty with urban energy, making it an ideal spot to begin exploring the region.

Victoria Harbour has been a cornerstone of Victoria, BC, since its founding in 1843 as Fort Victoria, a Hudson’s Bay Company trading post. It became a vital port during the 1858 Fraser River Gold Rush, serving as a supply hub for miners. Today, the harbour is framed by historic landmarks like the Fairmont Empress Hotel and BC Parliament Buildings, which light up at night. Visitors can explore nearby attractions such as the Royal BC Museum or Canada’s oldest Chinatown, enjoy waterfront dining, or take a short walk to Beacon Hill Park. The harbour is also a launch point for kayaking, whale-watching tours to spot orcas and seals, and floatplane trips. Annual events like the Victoria Dragon Boat Festival and Swiftsure International Yacht Race add to its cultural vibrancy, making it a must-visit destination on Vancouver Island.

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