Cruise Ship Excursion Review: Butchart Gardens, Picnic, and Victoria Highlights

The beautiful Butchart Gardens in Victoria, Canada was the destination of our final shore excursion that we chose during our seven day cruise to Alaska on the Norwegian Pearl. The ship arrived in the evening and we were quickly off to the gardens by way of a cushy motor coach. Our guide pointed out some interesting architecture during our drive and even some history about Victoria. When we arrived at the gardens, an impressive picnic basket of delicious foods was presented to us and we had the choice of eating at a table or spreading out on the luscious lawn.

And here is where you will need to decide what you really want to do.  The clock is ticking and it is getting dark. Do you slow down and enjoy the excellent picnic or do you eat quickly and run off to look at all the wonderful sights the the Butchart Gardens offers?  My choice was to see as much of the gardens as was humanly possible before the sun went down.

From the moment you step into the gardens you a greeted by an explosion of color. The greens of the lawns are bordered by reds, pinks, purples, and blues.

Everywhere you turn there is something to see, even hidden in the shadows. You will be amazed as you walk through gateway after gateway of blooming magic.

Wonderful fountains cascade throughout the different garden areas. The simple lighting illuminating them in the setting sun.

I could have spent days here just photographing all the different flowers.

I was sad when the sun began to dip down below the horizon. But luckily that sadness was soon replaced by OOs and Ahs as the fireworks began. The show was set to some great music including some high energy swing. Make sure you get a good seat so that you can see the animated ground effects!

The Butchart Gardens, Picnic, and Victoria Highlights is a well rounded choice for anyone trying to decide which shore excursion to choose in Victoria.  You get food, beauty, and explosions!  Be sure to head on over to our photo website for more images from the Port of Victoria and The Butchart Gardens. BG Customs Photography