We remained on the Eurodam during our stop at Victoria, British Columbia. Nevertheless, we were required to complete a Canadian customs declaration card.
Our family cruised to Alaska aboard the MS Eurodam.
Alaska was amazing. We loved our time in Juneau, Sitka, Ketchikan and Glacier Bay National Park. But, our departure from Alaska felt abrupt. In fact, the Eurodam spent 30 hours traveling at top speed to reach Victoria, British Columbia. Why? Because it's the law.
The Passenger Vessel Services Act of 1886 dictates that only U.S.-flagged vessels may begin and end a voyage in the U.S. without making a foreign stop. Unfortunately, only one cruise ship in the world meets the requirements of this controversial 19th century law.
Our Alaskan cruise itinerary included a stop in Canada, like it or not.
We arrived to Victoria, BC on the evening before we returned to Seattle. Rather than get off the ship, we used our time to pack. Unfortunately, it was a dead night aboard the Eurodam.
B.B. King's All Stars played a single set beginning at 10:30 p.m., but otherwise, there was no live entertainment that evening. Even the bars were closed on alternating floors. In the end, we felt like our cruise had effectively ended two days before we returned to Seattle.
If you're considering a cruise to Alaska, it's worth researching when (and for how long) your ship will stop in Victoria. Hopefully, you can make a day of it.
Things to Do and See in Victoria, BC
In Port
Fairmont Empress Hotel - Early 1900s hotel famous for its lobby and afternoon tea.
Parliament Building - Guided tours are available year-round.
Thunderbird Park - Home to many totem poles.
Chinatown - The oldest Chinatown in Canada.
Emily Carr House - Historic site and childhood home of painter Emily Carr.
Royal British Columbia Museum - 19th century museum with three permanent galleries.
Craigdarroch Castle - Historic family home of coal baron Robert Dunsmuir.
Maritime Museum - Large collection of maritime artifacts and model ships.
Excursions
Butchart Gardens - Floral display gardens located in Brentwood Bay.
Butterfly Gardens - Indoor facility featuring many species of butterflies and moths.
