Tours
Tours
The National Organizing Committee is very excited to welcome delegates to Victoria, British Columbia, Canada for the 25th Anniversary of the International Seaweed Symposium in May. We have curated a collection of tours for delegates which can be booked through the registration link. In addition, Greater Victoria has a wide variety of activities and experiences for visitors to explore! A list of suggestions is available on our Visit Victoria page.
Quick Links
To learn more about each tour, please click the buttons below.
Pre-Symposium Tours - May 3, 2025
Pre-Symposium Tours - May 4, 2025
Mid-Symposium Tours - May 7, 2025
Post-Symposium Tours - May 10, 2025
Pre-Symposium Tour - May 3, 2025
Botanical Beach Field Trip
Date: May 3, 2025
Time: 7:45am – 5:00pm*
Duration: 9 hours 15 minutes
Price: $210
Maximum Capacity: 20**
Tom Mumford and Bridgette Clarkston are leading a trip to one of the most spectacular rocky intertidal beaches in North America. Tom has been studying and leading field trips to this remote destination since 1970. Notably, this site was also the location of the Minnesota Seaside Station from 1901 to 1907, led by Dr. Josephine Tilden, a pioneer in marine biology. (Appropriate costumes are optional!)
Located on the traditional and unceded territory of the Pacheedaht First Nation, the intertidal zone at Botanical Beach is exposed to the full force of the Northeast Pacific Ocean and a fascinating mix of sandstone concretions and benches, coastal rainforest and bog. Visitors will see and touch the iconic kelp Postelsia palmaeformis, the surf-loving Lessoniopsis littoralis, and more than a hundred other species of algae. We will also explore the highly diverse sheltered coves and famous tide pools. And the inverts are just as spectacular as the algae!
Please note: This trip will be most interesting to Phycologists, and requires stamina and good balance. The hike to the beach is about 1200 meters (0.75 miles), and elevation gain/loss is about 100 meters along old logging roads. The rocky intertidal zone is steep, uneven, and slippery, and requires extra caution, especially if there is any surf. The roads, wooded trails and rocky intertidal are not American Disabilities Act compliant. The area is a BC Provincial Park, and there is absolutely no collecting of any specimens allowed. Bring your camera, and if you have a waterproof one, the tidepools provide some amazing underwater shots. We will be eager to help you identify the local seaweeds and experience the wonders of this highly diverse seaweed hotspot.
We may experience inclement weather, and participants will be required to have appropriate footwear and clothing.
Tour includes transportation, lunch, and park entrance fees.
*Return time may vary depending on weather and road conditions.
**Tour capacity is limited and available on a first-come, first-served basis. ISS25 reserves the right to cancel a tour if the minimum number of participants is not met or due to inclement weather. In the event of a cancellation, registrants will be notified by email and provided with a full refund.
Pre-Symposium Tour - May 4, 2025
Clover Point Intertidal Tour
Date: May 4, 2025
Tour time: 2:00pm – 4:30pm
Duration: 2.5 hours
Price: $15
Maximum Capacity: 20*
Discover the intertidal with seaweed biologists, Dr. Sandra Lindstrom and Dr. Katy Hind at Clover Point!
Dr. Sandra Lindstrom has studied the seaweeds of British Columbia for more than 50 years and has co-authored numerous papers and books. Dr. Katy Hind has been leading field trips and exploring algal biodiversity with students for over 20 years, focusing on the taxonomy and evolution of coralline algae.
Clover Point is an accessible, rocky intertidal zone along Dallas Road in Victoria that features shallow pools, small cobble and some larger boulders. There is a ramp to the rocky beach and those with accessibility needs could access the high or even mid-intertidal zones (please note the ramp is steep and does get very slippery in wet weather). The lower pools offer local kelp species such as Nereocystis leutkeana, Hedophyllum spp., and the beautiful feather boa, Egregia menziesii.
We look forward to meeting our guests at the picnic tables at the start time, and we will follow the tide down to the mid-low intertidal pools.
Please dress for the weather as it can be windy, rainy and cooler by the sea.
Please note: Participants are required to arrange for their own transportation to the field site in Clover Point Park. It can be accessed by bus (#7), taxi/Uber, or bicycle and there is often much to see including kite surfers, kite flyers and dog walkers. Participants will need to arrive with appropriate clothing and footwear.
*Tour capacity is limited and available on a first-come, first-served basis. ISS25 reserves the right to cancel a tour if the minimum number of participants is not met or due to inclement weather. In the event of a cancellation, registrants will be notified by email and provided with a full refund.
Mid-symposium tour
Sip and Savour on Salt Spring Island
Date: May 7, 2025
Time: 7:30am – 7:00pm*
Duration: 11.5 hours
Price: $360
Maximum Capacity: 52**
This full-day adventure takes guests through the wonders of the West Coast, exploring one of the many small islands accessible from Greater Victoria. Embark on an unforgettable journey filled with stunning sights both en route to and on Salt Spring Island, local flavours and an evening presentation and social event at the Shaw Centre for the Salish Sea.
Guests will be transported to the ferry terminal and will enjoy a scenic crossing to Salt Spring Island, encouraged to do a moderate hike at Ruckle Provincial Park before a delightful lunch at the Salt Spring Cider House, followed by a presentation by a local marine biologist who will share insights on marine ecology on the Island. Guests will then be encouraged to attend a presentation and social with Josie Iselin at the beautiful Shaw Centre for the Salish Sea, a not-for-profit community organization dedicated to connecting the public with the Salish Sea Bioregion and its ecosystems.
Tour includes transportation, lunch, entrance fees, evening refreshments and administrative fees.
*Return time may vary depending on weather and road conditions.
**Tour capacity is limited and available on a first-come, first-served basis. ISS25 reserves the right to cancel a tour if the minimum number of participants is not met or due to inclement weather. In the event of a cancellation, registrants will be notified by email and provided with a full refund.
North to Nanaimo: A Cultural Experience
Date: May 7, 2025
Time: 8:00am – 6:00pm*
Duration: 10 hours
Price: $330
Maximum Capacity: 52**
Immerse yourself in the rich Indigenous culture of the region as we journey to Nanaimo. Your adventure begins at the breathtaking Malahat Skywalk, a stunning elevated walkway that offers panoramic views of the forests and mountains surrounding Saanich Inlet, providing an ideal backdrop of reflection and photography.
After soaking in the natural beauty, we will travel to the City of Duncan, for a guided Totem tour, where you will explore the iconic Totem Poles that tell powerful stories of Indigenous heritage and craftsmanship.
After a lunch inspired by local ingredients, guests will travel a little further North, to Saysutshun (Newcastle Island), for another guided cultural tour highlighting the natural beauty of this small island and the traditions of the Indigenous people who have lived in harmony with the land for generations. The return trip to the conference centre is expected to be quite scenic!
Tour includes transportation, lunch, park entrance and administrative fees.
*Return time may vary depending on weather and road conditions.
**Tour capacity is limited and available on a first-come, first-served basis. ISS25 reserves the right to cancel a tour if the minimum number of participants is not met or due to inclement weather. In the event of a cancellation, registrants will be notified by email and provided with a full refund.
West to Whiffin Experience
Date: May 7, 2025
Time: 8:00am – 6:00pm*
Duration: 10 hours
Price: $235 ($190 if opt out for Zipline)
Maximum Capacity: 51**
This full-day tour is designed for those seeking an active day filled with excitement and exploration! The adventure begins at the Adrena LINE Zipline Adventure Park, where guests will have the option to either soar through the treetops on a zipline offering breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape or to lounge next door at the 17 Mile Pub over brunch and board games. All guests will convene at the Pub with time to eat before travelling to Whiffin Spit, where marine biologist, Amanda Swinimer of Dakini Tidal Wilds, will share insights into the amazing diversity of local seaweeds. Our afternoon will culminate with a visit to Seaflora Skincare, renowned for its award-winning seaweed skincare products made on Vancouver Island. Guests will have the chance to experience unique varieties like Mazzaella, discover the benefits of these natural ingredients and explore (and purchase) exceptional skincare products.
The intertidal zone is uneven, slippery, and requires extra caution. The roads, trails and rocky intertidal are not American Disabilities Act compliant. We may experience inclement weather, and participants are required to have appropriate footwear and clothing.
Tour includes transportation, lunch, park entrance and administrative fees.
*Return time may vary depending on weather and road conditions.
**Tour capacity is limited and available on a first-come, first-served basis. ISS25 reserves the right to cancel a tour if the minimum number of participants is not met or due to inclement weather. In the event of a cancellation, registrants will be notified by email and provided with a full refund.
Whale Watching with Eagle Wing Tours
Date: May 7, 2025
Tour: 9:00am – 1:30pm*
Duration: 4.5 hours
Price: $220
Maximum Capacity: 60**
Prepare for an exhilarating whale and wildlife watching tour, where adventure awaits at every turn! Guests will check in at Fisherman’s Wharf, located in the heart of Victoria, about a 20-minute brisk walk from the Victoria Conference Centre, before boarding for a thrilling 3.5 – 4-hour ocean experience that promises to be the most comprehensive whale watching tour.
The boat sets sail surrounded by stunning coastal scenery as guests enter the natural habitat of majestic whales! With multiple wildlife stops, guests will enjoy world-class interpretation and personalized service that delivers the “WOW” factor. Knowledgeable guides will share fascinating insights about the whales, wildlife, and their ecosystems.
Tour includes lunch, the wildlife tour and administrative fees.
*Please note: Participants are required to check in at Fisherman’s Wharf at 9:00am sharp.
**Tour capacity is limited and available on a first-come, first-served basis. ISS25 reserves the right to cancel a tour if the minimum number of participants is not met or due to inclement weather. In the event of a cancellation, registrants will be notified by email and provided with a full refund.
See the City on Two Wheels!
Date: May 7, 2025
Tour 1: 9:00am – 12:00pm
Tour 2: 2:00pm – 5:00pm
Duration: 3 hours
Price: $110
Maximum Capacity each tour: 12*
Experience one of the most scenic trails in Victoria from the seat of an E-bike! This 3-hour self-guided electric bike tour of the Lochside Trail will have guests cruising along the 29 km Lochside Trail through charming countryside, lush farmland, beaches, unique urban backyards, and more.
A shuttle bus will pick guests up at the Victoria Conference Center at the tour start time and dropped off on the Saanich Peninsula. Guests will receive an E-bike, a safety briefing, a helmet and a map identifying the location to return the bike and helmet among other local attractions.
Tour includes rental of an e-bike and helmet. Participants will be required to dress appropriately and purchase their own food.
*Tour capacity is limited and available on a first-come, first-served basis. ISS25 reserves the right to cancel a tour if the minimum number of participants is not met or due to inclement weather. In the event of a cancellation, registrants will be notified by email and provided with a full refund.
Natural History Tour at the Royal BC Museum
Date: May 7, 2025
Tour 1: 10:30am – 11 :15am
Tour 2: 11:30am – 12:15pm
Tour 3: 1:30pm – 2:15pm
Tour 4: 2:30pm – 3:15pm
Duration: 1.25 hours
Price: $24
Maximum Capacity each tour: 20*
A 30-minute guided tour of the Natural History gallery, where British Columbia’s rich and diverse natural heritage comes to life. This tour will take you on a journey through time and across the varied landscapes of the province.
Step back into the Ice Age and meet the iconic Woolly Mammoth. See the largest elk in North America in the forest and listen to the sounds of the crashing waves of the coastline in the seashore dioramas.
A knowledgeable guide will help guests uncover the gallery’s highlights and hidden treasures, showcasing the unique ecosystems that make British Columbia a natural marvel. The Royal BC Museum is also home to an IMAX Theatre. Be sure to check out showtimes!
Please note: Participants will check in at the Royal BC Museum, a 5-minute walk from the Victoria Convention Center or the Fairmont Empress Hotel.
*Tour capacity is limited and available on a first-come, first-served basis. ISS25 reserves the right to cancel a tour if the minimum number of participants is not met or due to inclement weather. In the event of a cancellation, registrants will be notified by email and provided with a full refund.
The Butchart Gardens with optional addition of the Shaw Center at the Salish Sea
Date: May 7, 2025
Tour: 11:00am – 7:00pm
Duration: 8 hours
Price: $165*
Maximum Capacity each tour: 56**
Nestled in the heart of Brentwood Bay, Butchart Gardens is a world-renowned 55-acre paradise that has captivated visitors for over 120 years. Created by the visionary Jennie Butchart, this stunning display garden is a testament to her dream of transforming a former quarry into a breathtaking haven of lush greenery and vibrant bloom. In 2004, Butchart Gardens was designated a National Historic Site of Canada, celebrating its centennial legacy.
In Spring, the garden comes alive with over 300,000 blooming bulbs, including daffodils, tulips, and hyacinths, infusing the air with their delightful scents. Take on a journey through this floral wonderland and experience the enchanting beauty of Butchart Gardens – the perfect escape for nature lovers and garden enthusiasts alike!
Following the afternoon in the Gardens, guests will then be encouraged (but not required) to attend a presentation and social event with
Josie Iselin at the Shaw Centre for the Salish Sea, a not-for-profit community organization dedicated to connecting the public with the Salish Sea Bioregion
and its ecosystems.
*Please note: The tour includes transportation, entrance fees, evening refreshments and administrative fees. Lunch/meal is not included, but food is available on-site at The Butchart Gardens.
**Tour capacity is limited and available on a first-come, first-served basis. ISS25 reserves the right to cancel a tour if the minimum number of participants is not met or due to inclement weather. In the event of a cancellation, registrants will be notified by email and provided with a full refund.
Tour and Social Hour at Industrial Plankton
Date: May 7, 2025
Time: 1:00 pm – 4:00 pm
Duration: 3 hours
Price: $45
Maximum Capacity: 54
Step behind the scenes at Industrial Plankton to see where their gametophyte and algae bioreactors are manufactured. During the tour see the bioreactors in action producing gametophytes and microalgae and get a chance to talk to the creators behind them.
Industrial Plankton is a leader in bioreactor innovation, founded in 2010 with clients in 35 countries. This is a great opportunity to tour their new facility — just a short drive from the conference center.
Join us to engage with industry experts, explore the latest advancements, and enjoy local beer, wine, non-alcoholic refreshments, and snacks at Industrial Plankton.
Eat like a Canadian
Date: May 7, 2025
Tour 1: 2:30pm – 5:00pm
Tour 2: 3:00pm – 5:30pm
Duration: 2.5 hours
Price: $168
Maximum Capacity each tour: 24*
Join us for a delightful 2.5-hour culinary adventure that showcases the rich flavors and history of Victoria! The tour kicks off with a fun water taxi from Empress Hotel to Finest at Sea, a local favourite established in 1977 with one of the largest fishing fleets in British Columbia. You will indulge in exquisite local seafood, sampling delicacies like candied salmon and smoked sablefish.
Then off to Imagine Studio Café, where you will enjoy Bannock, a traditional First Nations dish of delicious fried bread that offers a taste of Indigenous culture. Continuing the culinary exploration, we will head to Fisherman’s Wharf to savor one of Canada’s most famous creations: the Hawaiian pizza. Discover the intriguing history behind this beloved yet divisive item.
Guests will take in the sights of Victoria’s most iconic landmarks, including the Pendray Inn, the BC Legislature Building, and the Steamship Terminal, then experience a unique maple syrup tasting alongside the most popular dessert in Western Canada – the Nanaimo Bar.
Along Government Street guests will be offered traditional poutine from a beloved Canadian institution, Beavertails, before wrapping up with a BC wine tasting, featuring an ice wine to complement the flavours of the day.
Please note: Stops may vary based on availability. While our hosts will do their best to accommodate allergies, gluten and dairy may be difficult to avoid. A pescatarian option is available, but this tour is not tailored to vegan or vegetarian diets.
*Tour capacity is limited and available on a first-come, first-served basis. ISS25 reserves the right to cancel a tour if the minimum number of participants is not met or due to inclement weather. In the event of a cancellation, registrants will be notified by email and provided with a full refund.
Clover Point Intertidal Tour
Date: May 7, 2025
Time: 4:30 pm – 7:00 pm*
Duration: 2.5 hours
Price: $ 15
Maximum Capacity: 23**
Discover the intertidal with seaweed biologists, Dr. Sandra Lindstrom and Dr. Katy Hind at Clover Point!
Dr. Sandra Lindstrom has studied the seaweeds of British Columbia for more than 50 years and has co-authored numerous papers and books. Dr. Katy Hind has been leading field trips and exploring algal biodiversity with students for over 20 years, focusing on the taxonomy and evolution of coralline algae.
Clover Point is an accessible, rocky intertidal zone along Dallas Road in Victoria that features shallow pools, small cobble and some larger boulders. There is a ramp to the rocky beach and those
with accessibility needs could access the high or even mid-intertidal zones (please note the ramp is steep and does get very slippery in wet weather). The lower pools offer local kelp species such as Nereocystis leutkeana, Hedophyllum spp., and the beautiful feather boa, Egregia menziesii.
We look forward to meeting our guests at the picnic tables at the start time, and we will follow the tide down to the mid-low intertidal pools.
Please dress for the weather as it can be windy, rainy and cooler by the sea.
Please note: Participants are required to arrange for their own transportation to the field site in Clover Point Park. It can be accessed by bus (#7), taxi/Uber, or bicycle and there is often much to see including kite surfers, kite flyers and dog walkers. Participants will need to arrive with appropriate clothing and footwear.
*Tour capacity is limited and available on a first-come, first-served basis. ISS25 reserves the right to cancel a tour if the minimum number of participants is not met or due to inclement weather. In the event of a cancellation, registrants will be notified by email and provided with a full refund.
Post-symposium tour
Post-symposium Dive Tour
Date: May 10, 2025
Tour: 8:00 am – 4:00 pm
Duration: 8 hours
Price: $525*
Maximum Capacity: 12 guests per tour**
Dive into the breathtaking underwater world of the Salish Sea, explore diverse marine life, stunning kelp forests, and captivating shipwrecks. This full-day dive charter offers an exhilarating experience that promises to delight both novice and seasoned divers.
Guests will depart at 8 am at the Victoria Conference Centre and travel to the Tulista Park Boat Ramp in Sidney. From there guests will set off on a six-hour journey for a two-tank dive excursion.
Don’t forget to bring your personal dive equipment.
To ensure a safe and enjoyable experience, participants will be required to provide diving experience and certification details during registration. This information will be shared with our hosts at a local dive shop and your guide to ensure proper safety measures tailored to your skill level.
*Tour includes transportation, lunch and gear rental. Participants should bring a dry bag with a towel and a change of clothing.
**Tour capacity is limited and available on a first-come, first-served basis. ISS25 reserves the right to cancel a tour if the minimum number of participants is not met or due to inclement weather. In the event of a cancellation, registrants will be notified by email and provided with a full refund.
Cancellation Policy
We hope you are able to join us on the tour(s) you have selected, but we know that plans can change. If you must cancel, you have until 30 days prior to the day of your tour to cancel for a full refund less administrative fees. Cancellations after that point are non-refundable.