AK...Butchart Gardens excursion

[angelmomma530]

We are traveling to AK in Aug on Ruby Princess. Our last port is Victoria, BC. It is an evening port 7pm-mid. I really would like to visit Butchart Gardens. What time does it start getting dark there in Aug? I have seen pics and its beautiful at dusk and evening + fireworks, etc but would like to see the flowers in the light also. Basically, is it worth it?

[cruiselvr1]

We are traveling to AK in Aug on Ruby Princess. Our last port is Victoria, BC. It is an evening port 7pm-mid. I really would like to visit Butchart Gardens. What time does it start getting dark there in Aug? I have seen pics and its beautiful at dusk and evening + fireworks, etc but would like to see the flowers in the light also. Basically, is it worth it?

I had a friend who took this excursion last September on her cruise to Alaska. She says there was a lot of people upset that because it was dark outside she and the others said that they could not see much of the gardens in the dark.

[Cruiserkenn]

I have been on the evening shore excursion, many times. The gardens are beautifully illuminated, once it gets dark. Go for sure!

 

It is a great experience.

 

It get dark late in early August, but much earlier in late August.

 

No matter! I have enjoyed it at all times.

[weathermom]

Sunset is at about 9pm in early august and 8pm by the end of august. Desk lingers awhile though. Dusk and early evening is a beautiful time to see the garden/lights.

[BrnBrok]

I have not been to the Gardens later in the day, but my early day trip was excellent. These Gardens are a must see at any time

[xlxo]

Sunset is at about 9pm in early august and 8pm by the end of august. Desk lingers awhile though. Dusk and early evening is a beautiful time to see the garden/lights.

Official sunset time is 8:29pm on August 15th in Vancouver/Victoria. http://www.timeanddate.com/sun/canada/vancouver?month=8&year=2015

 

Twilight will go until 9pm on that day.

 

For a ships arriving at 7pm

• I guess you won't be getting on the bus until 7:30pm.
  
• You arrive at the gardens at 8pm (30 min drive to Brentwood Bay). In daylight, I typically want 2 hours there. If the ship is delayed.... you will be getting to the gardens there with even less sunlight. If you are walking under a tree canopy, there is even less light.
  
• Fireworks is only available on Saturdays. http://www.butchartgardens.com/activities/fireworks
  

[mapleleaves]

Depending on WHEN in August, you'll have at least an hour of daylight at the Gardens.

 

If this is a one-and-only trip, another option is to leave the ship in Victoria, overnight at a hotel, visit Butchart in the morning, then take the Victoria Clipper to Seattle late afternoon. Just be sure to let the crew know of your plans.

[angelmomma530]

Cruise is Aug 9-15. It is a Saturday we would be there. Mapleleaves it is a one and only but the leaving ship in Victoria is a thought.