Victoria is one of the few cities in the world where seaplanes land right in the middle of town, and taking one up for a short scenic flight is an unforgettable way to see the city and its setting. This tour leaves from the Harbour Air terminal at 950 Wharf Street on the Inner Harbour, a few minutes' walk from the Empress. After boarding, the floatplane taxis out past the whale-watching boats and harbour ferries, lifts off over the water and climbs above the city. From the air you see how Victoria fits together: the Fairmont Empress and the Parliament Buildings framing the harbour, the leafy neighbourhoods and Beacon Hill Park running to the sea, the rocky shoreline of the Strait of Juan de Fuca and, across the water, the jagged Olympic Mountains in Washington State. The route also takes in the islands offshore, Mount Douglas, Elk Lake, the farms and inlets of the Saanich Peninsula and the deep fjord of Finlayson Arm, depending on conditions. The whole experience, from boarding to landing, takes about half an hour, and the landing on the harbour is a highlight in itself. This page links to the Victoria Panorama Scenic Seaplane Tour on Viator, rated 4.5 from 226 reviews.
Before you book: seaplanes fly by sight, so flights depend on the weather, and low cloud, fog or strong winds can delay or cancel them, more often in the winter months. Book for early in your stay so that you have time to rebook, and check the cancellation terms on the booking page. Every seat on a small floatplane is a window seat, but the pilot may assign seats to balance the aircraft, so do not count on sitting up front. An extended option is offered for a longer route.
On the day: check in at the Harbour Air terminal on Wharf Street before your departure time, and pack light, since space on the aircraft is limited. The cabin can be noisy, and headsets or ear protection are usually provided. Bring a camera or phone with a strap and wear a dark top to cut reflections on the windows.
Who it suits: anyone who wants a different perspective on the city, couples marking an occasion and photographers, especially on a clear, crisp November day when the mountains are sharp. Nervous flyers are often reassured by how short and smooth the flight is, but the take-off and landing on water feel different from a jet. For a longer trip, Harbour Air also flies scheduled seaplanes between Victoria and downtown Vancouver.
What to expect
The experience
A short scenic floatplane flight from the Inner Harbour over the city, the coastline, the Saanich Peninsula and Finlayson Arm, landing back on the harbour.
Best time
A clear, calm day, ideally in the morning; book early in your trip so a weather cancellation can be rebooked.
How long
About 30 minutes from boarding to landing, plus check-in time at the terminal.
Tips
Pack light, wear dark clothing to avoid window glare, and check the cancellation terms before you book.
Quick picks
- Best for
- Couples, photographers and anyone who wants the big picture of Victoria and its setting.
- Families
- Children who are happy flying will love the water take-off, though the price adds up for a family.
- Couples
- A memorable shared treat on a clear day, followed by a drink on the harbour.
- Pair with
- The Inner Harbour walk and Parliament tour, or the food tour that ends nearby on Wharf Street.
- Time needed
- About an hour including check-in.
Good questions
Where does the Victoria seaplane tour leave from?+
It departs from and returns to the Harbour Air terminal at 950 Wharf Street on the Inner Harbour. The terminal is a few minutes' walk from the Fairmont Empress.
How long is the Victoria Panorama seaplane flight?+
The experience takes about 30 minutes from boarding to landing. An extended option with a longer route is also offered.
What do you see from the seaplane?+
You see the Inner Harbour, the Empress and the Parliament Buildings, the coastline and offshore islands, the Saanich Peninsula and Finlayson Arm. On clear days the Olympic Mountains stand out across the strait.
Do seaplane tours run in winter?+
Flights operate in winter but depend on visibility and wind. Book early in your trip so you can rebook if the weather cancels your flight.
Can I choose my seat on the seaplane?+
Every seat is a window seat, but the pilot may assign seats to balance the aircraft. Do not count on sitting next to the pilot.
