Victoria Express

Take advantage of the Hood Canal Bridge closure to travel on the Victoria Express, explore Victoria, and get to know your neighbors to the north. Riding the Victoria Express is a great, inexpensive way to travel to one of the most beautiful cities on the west coast.

We are fortunate to be so close to a city that is steeped in British traditions. One of the most charming of these traditions is Afternoon Tea. Historically, Afternoon Tea in Britain is served before 5pm, and includes a small selection of sandwiches and little cakes. It is served at small tables in the parlor or outside, not in the dining room. If Afternoon Tea is skipped, Brits traditionally take High Tea after 5pm. This is served at the dining table, and includes a variety of hot foods

Tea at the Empress

Consider signing up for one of the Victoria Express Afternoon Tea specials. A reminder of British Columbia’s English roots, Afternoon Tea at The Empress Hotel has been one of Victoria’s traditions for almost a century. You haven’t had a scone until you’ve eaten one of award-winning Pastry Chef D’Oyen Christie’s freshly baked raisin scones with heavy cream and strawberry preserves. It is the perfect accompaniment to a cup of the hotel’s secret Tea at The Empress blend in the Library. You will transported to another era.

For a different setting, try Afternoon Tea at the Gardens -Butchart Gardens, that is. This is a melange of Afternoon and High Tea traditions, serving warm sausage rolls (made from Vancouver Island pork) and quiche in the afternoon. Lemon Poppy Seed loaf or chocolate Grand Marnier truffles guarantee that those with a sweet tooth will not be disappointed. These are of course accompanied by a large pot of tea of your choice.

Victoria Express Afternoon Tea Special – Includes round trip ferry tickets from Port Angeles to Victoria aboard the Victoria Express, Afternoon Tea at the Empress Hotel. $93 per person.

Victoria Express Afternoon Tea at the Gardens – Includes round trip ferry tickets from Port Angeles to Victoria aboard the Victoria Express, Afternoon Tea at Butchart Gardens. $116.50 per person

Don’t forget that United States Citizens will need a passport or an enhanced driver’s license to travel to Canada after May 31, 2009.