My views do not necessarily reflect the views of my employer.
June 28, 2025
I met David Aiken on the Diamond Princess when he kept appearing to do his juggling act. We ended up sitting next to each other at lunch in Korea, and when David noticed I couldn’t keep up with the Japanese conversation, he kept me company in English. We hit it off, and I learned that he lived outside Victoria, Canada – just across the water from where my mom lives. He was back on the Diamond in August 2024 when my mom came to stay with me. I introduced them, went to host a segment of the Wake Show, and by the time I returned, Ron Voyage was already planning a trip for the three of us to visit David, stay at his Air BnB, and see his soon-to-open brewery during my next vacation.
When Princess restructured the Entertainment Department and MSC offered me a job, the trip to see David was sacrificed for employment. Since then, whenever I enjoy a particularly nice beverage, I send David a photo, and he often sends one back. I think of it as a sporadic global pub crawl, and it’s been a really fun way to keep in touch.
As we approached Canada, I told David that we’d be in Victoria for one day – how close was he again? He offered to come pick me up at the port, put me to work at his (now open) brewery, and get me back in time for all aboard. Now that was an offer I couldn’t refuse!
We caught up on my recent life changes (from Princess to MSC to Villa Vie) on the winding, forested roads to Shirley.
Before the brewery opened, David gave me a tour of the property:
The place is surrounded by woods.
David met a mountain man who cleared the forest in exchange for beer – there’s now a beer on tap in his honor.
After David’s wife made us pancakes, we opened the brewery in the garage behind the house.
I was blown away by the clever decorations and attention to detail.
David had clearly put thought into every centimeter (metric since we’re in Canada).
I can’t say if I was more delighted by the beer or the bathroom.
Let’s go inside…
I tasted every beer. Each one had a story with flavors as complex and fun as the people who inspired them. This is the review I posted:
Nestled in the forest of Shirley, Checkerhead Brewing is the brainchild of David Aiken—a globe-trotting juggler whose creativity pours into every brew. Each beer is a tribute to local friends or performer pals, giving every pint a personal story. From the coconut-bright Minnie Maniac Coconut Blonde to the honey-layered Catapult Honey Tripel and the malt-rich Man of the Mountain Mild, every sip is full of character—and so delicious, it’s hard to pick a favorite.
The brewing space is cozy, colorful, and welcoming, with quirky, hilarious décor that reflects David’s vibrant personality. His meticulous attention to detail infuses the entire experience with both quality and joy. With ingredients often grown on-site, and beers that surprise your taste buds while telling heartfelt stories, Checkerhead is a must-visit gem on Vancouver Island’s west coast.
My favorite part (besides the pizza we picked up for lunch) was watching David adapt to whoever walked in the door. Some were regulars; some were first-timers. With each personality, David shifted his “show,” tailoring it to his audience – sometimes putting on a video and juggling, and other times giving someone his full attention when they clearly needed to talk.
By the end of the day, I was an honorary member of the team.
I met David’s younger son, who was there to do some yard work, and we listened to music produced by both of his sons in the car ride back. I felt invigorated by a day full of laughter, good company, and delicious things to taste.
When we reached the dock, the Discovery Princess was parked next to us. I’ve cruised on the Discovery as a guest and worked on her sister ship, Enchanted. She looked massive next to our little Odyssey. Thousands of Discovery guests flooded the streets. Security asked for their fancy medallions at the checkpoints, I just showed my low-tech crew ID.
To my right was a giant ship of strangers with slick technology; to my left, little Villa Vie with no security guard at the base of the stairs. When I stepped aboard, the security guard greeted me by name, input my ID number without my saying it, and offered me cake – they were celebrating one of the security guard’s birthday. I balanced the cake in my fingers as I slung my bag onto the scanner belt and took a moment to appreciate how my life has evolved. I like working on a ship where people stick around long enough to for us to get to know each other, I like being recognized by people rather than machines, and I still get to meet up with friends I’ve made around the world.
Victoria Canada
Welcome to Victoria, the charming capital of British Columbia and one of Canada’s most picturesque port cities. Located on the southern tip of Vancouver Island, Victoria is known for its elegant blend of old-world charm and modern West Coast spirit. With its historic architecture, blooming gardens, scenic waterfront, and walkable downtown, Victoria offers a peaceful and refined atmosphere that feels a world away—yet it’s just a short sail from bustling Seattle.
Often called the “Garden City,” Victoria delights visitors with its vibrant floral displays, especially in the famous Butchart Gardens, and its stately buildings like the British Columbia Parliament Buildings and Fairmont Empress Hotel. The city’s British roots are reflected in afternoon tea traditions, red double-decker buses, and charming pubs—but its heart beats with Pacific Northwest energy, creativity, and Indigenous heritage.
History:
Victoria, the capital of British Columbia, has a rich and layered history that stretches back thousands of years. Long before European settlement, the area was home to the Lekwungen-speaking Coast Salish peoples, who thrived here with complex social structures, seasonal villages, and a deep connection to the land and sea. In 1843, the Hudson’s Bay Company established Fort Victoria as a fur trading post, which soon grew into a colonial settlement. The city became the capital of the colony of British Columbia in 1868 and has since evolved into a charming blend of Indigenous heritage, British colonial architecture, and modern Canadian culture. Today, Victoria retains its historic charm while embracing its vibrant, multicultural identity.
Itinerary:
Arrival: Saturday, June 28 8:00am (Please allow time for port clearance)
Departure: Saturday June 28 All aboard: 9pm Sail away: 10pm
Weather
- Average Temps in Late June: Highs around 68°F (20°C), lows near 52°F (11°C)
- Dress in Layers: Mornings and evenings can be cool, even in summer
- What to Wear: Comfortable walking shoes, light jacket or windbreaker, and an umbrella—just in case
The Victoria, British Columbia cruise port is located on the southern tip of Vancouver Island, along the scenic Inner Harbour—a natural, deep-water harbor sheltered by the nearby San Juan Islands. This protected location offers calm waters and a picturesque setting for arriving ships. Just a short distance from downtown Victoria, the port provides easy access to the city’s top attractions.
Near the Pier:
Cruise Ship Dock: Ogden Point Terminal South B
Address: 185 Dallas Road, Victoria, BC
Nearby Essentials
- ATM: At the Cruise Terminal
- Pharmacy/ Grocery/Snacks: Thrifty Foods – 475 Simcoe St (10-minute walk)
- Nearest Golf: Victoria Golf Club (private) or Cedar Hill Golf Course (public, 15–20 min drive)
Getting Around:
Getting around Victoria from Ogden Point Cruise Terminal is easy and flexible, thanks to several transit options:
- Cruise shuttle: Pacific North West Transportation Service shuttles run every ~15 minutes during ship calls. A one-way ticket is $10 USD or $15 USD for a day pass and drop you downtown near Government Street.
- Walking: A flat, scenic 2 km (~30–40 min) walk along the waterfront (via James Bay/Inner Harbour pathway) brings you to downtown attractions like the Parliament Buildings and Fairmont Empress.
- Taxi and rideshare: Taxis are available at designated stands. Fares to downtown are ~10–12 CAD . Uber launched mid-2023.
- Public buses: BC Transit routes #30/31 go directly from just outside the terminal along Dallas Road into downtown. A day pass costs 5 CAD, payable onboard (exact cash or Umo app). https://www.bctransit.com/victoria/
- Hop‑On Hop‑Off bus: CitySights offers a looped tour with a stop at Ogden Point, running hourly from ~10:06 AM to 6:06 PM.
- Several car rental companies—including Enterprise, Budget, Avis, National, and Hertz—offer competitive rates and cruise passenger discounts.
Near the Pier:
Fisherman’s Wharf – This lively marina‑pier cluster is a colourful mix of floating homes, working boats, seafood kiosks, quirky shops, and eco‑tour operators—a laid‑back, photogenic slice of coastal life. Iconic eats like Barb’s Fish & Chips, The Fish Store, Pirate Pizza, and Jackson’s Ice Cream dot the docks—all serving fresh, local fare on floating platforms. Wildlife lovers can spot harbour seals splashing near the float homes; adventurous souls can hop on a kayak or whale‑watching tour right from the wharf
Dallas Road Walkway – Stretching 4–6 km along the waterfront past the wharf, the Dallas Road pathway features separate walking and cycling lanes, beach access, benches, murals, and scenic stairs down to rocky tidelines . Highlights include the Mile 0 monument, Beacon Hill Park frontage, Clover Point, and the Ogden Point lighthouse and breakwater lighthouse—perfect for strolling, jogging, storm-watching, or simply enjoying ocean views toward the Olympic Mountains. Accessibility features (benches, paved paths) and washrooms along the route make it family‑friendly—though pedestrians and cyclists sometimes share the path closely, so do stay aware.
Follow Dallas Road to Beacon Hill Park with gardens, walking paths, and peacocks.
Nestled along the southern edge of downtown Victoria, Beacon Hill Park is a cherished 183-acre green space that seamlessly blends natural beauty with recreational amenities. Established in 1882, it stands as one of Canada’s oldest urban parks and is situated on the traditional territory of the Lekwungen-speaking peoples of the Songhees and Xwsepsum Nations.
Witnessing:
Parliament Buildings – The British Columbia Parliament Buildings are one of Victoria’s most iconic landmarks. Overlooking the Inner Harbour, these grand structures house the Legislative Assembly of British Columbia and are a striking example of neo-baroque architecture, completed in 1898. The buildings are beautifully lit at night by more than 3,000 white lights, making them a standout feature of the waterfront skyline. Visitors can take free guided or self-guided tours to explore the elegant chambers, learn about the province’s political history, and admire the impressive art and stained glass. The front lawn is also a popular spot for photos and public events.
The Inner Harbour is the heart of Victoria and one of the most picturesque waterfronts in Canada. The harbour is a lively hub of activity, especially in summer. Visitors can stroll the waterfront promenade, watch seaplanes land and depart, browse local artisan stalls, or simply enjoy the street performers and views. It’s also a gateway to whale-watching tours, harbor ferries, and kayaking excursions. Whether by day or night, the Inner Harbour offers a vibrant and welcoming atmosphere that captures the spirit of Victoria.
Fairmont Empress Hotel – Overlooking Victoria’s Inner Harbour, the Fairmont Empress Hotel is one of Canada’s most iconic and historic hotels. Opened in 1908, this grand, ivy-covered building is a stunning example of Edwardian architecture and has welcomed royalty, celebrities, and dignitaries for over a century. Inside, its elegant interiors reflect timeless luxury, and one of its most beloved traditions is afternoon tea, served daily in the sophisticated Lobby Lounge. Even if you’re not staying overnight, visiting the Empress is a must—whether to admire its grand façade, sip tea, or simply soak in the refined ambiance that defines this Victoria landmark.
Craigdarroch Castle – Perched on a hill in Victoria’s historic Rockland neighborhood, Craigdarroch Castle is a lavish Victorian-era mansion built between 1887 and 1890 by coal baron Robert Dunsmuir. This “bonanza castle” features four floors and 39 ornate rooms, including dozens of fireplaces, stained-glass windows, intricate woodwork, and an impressive 87-step tower climb offering panoramic views of the San Juan Islands and the city skyline. Originally a private residence, the Castle has served many purposes—military hospital, college, music conservatory—since it opened as a historic house museum in 1979. It’s now a National Historic Site of Canada and attracts roughly 150,000 visitors annually . A self-guided tour takes around 90 minutes and is aided by informative displays that bring the Dunsmuir family’s story to life . Highlights include original Victorian furnishings, exotic woods imported from Chicago, and beautifully restored stained glass. Recent restoration efforts have restored areas like the Victorian kitchen to their former 19th-century grandeur.
- Location: 1050 Joan Crescent, Victoria, BC. Open: 10 AM–5 PM
- Admission: Approx. $23.50 adult; discounts for youth, seniors, and students. Includes private parking
Learning:
Royal BC Museum – Situated at 675 Belleville Street in Victoria’s Inner Harbour Cultural Precinct, the Royal BC Museum (founded in 1886) is British Columbia’s provincial museum and archives, housing nearly 7 million artifacts spanning the natural world, Indigenous cultures, and colonial history.
Inside, explore three expansive permanent galleries:
- Natural History features fossils, taxidermied wildlife, and interactive tide pools.
- Becoming BC showcases BC’s development through replica scenes—including an immersive “Old Town” street display.
- First Peoples Gallery highlights Indigenous heritage, including totem poles, ceremonial houses, and updated exhibits co‑curated with First Nations.
Adjacent Thunderbird Park features remarkable totem poles and historic buildings, enhancing the on‑site experience.
- Hours: Daily 10 AM–5 PM (closes 6 PM on select days); advanced ticket purchase recommended .
- Admission: Approx. CA $30 (19+); discounts for youth, seniors, students, and Indigenous visitors; includes access to archives and IMAX ($11–$12 extra).
- Accessibility: Fully wheelchair-friendly, with complimentary transport-style wheelchair use and accessible restrooms.
Emily Carr House – This beautifully restored provincial and national historic site is the birthplace and childhood home of renowned Canadian artist and author Emily Carr.
Step inside Carr House to explore Emily’s early life, her family’s story, and the lasting legacy she left on Canadian art and literature.
- Hours of Operation: 10:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.
🎟 Drop-in Welcome – Wander through the historic home, relax in the gardens, and browse the charming gift shop featuring Emily Carr art cards, prints, books, and more. - Guided Tours available daily at 10:00 a.m., 12:00 p.m., and 2:00 p.m.
Bug Zoo – A charming two-room mini‑zoo featuring ~50 species of live arthropods, including giant millipedes, stick insects, glow‑in‑the‑dark scorpions, tarantulas, and Canada’s largest leaf‑cutter ant colony. It’s one of North America’s largest tropical insect collections.
- Guided tours run continuously during open hours (about 1 hour long), with educators showcasing live insects and arachnids, often allowing hands‑on interactions .
- For self‑guided visits, expect to spend 20–60 minutes exploring at your own pace.
- 10 a.m.–4 p.m.
Admission Fees:
- Adults (18–64): CA $18. Seniors (65+): CA $12 Youth (5–17): CA $8
Discovery:
Nestled within the Fairmont Empress Hotel just minutes from the Inner Harbour, Miniature World showcases over 85 intricately detailed dioramas spanning themes from historic battles and fairy tales to futuristic space scenes and the world’s smallest operational sawmill. Covering approximately 6,500 sq ft of exhibit space, the attraction offers animated features like moving trains, lights, and sound effects, making it a hit with families and history buffs alike. Most guests spend 45–60 minutes exploring miniature worlds like Camelot, Circus World, and the Great Canadian Railway.
- Location: 649 Humboldt St., inside the Empress Hotel
- Hours: Daily, typically 10 AM–6 PM
- Admission: CA $19 adults, CA $11 youth, CA $9 children (5–12)
Abkhazi Garden – A hidden one‑acre oasis created in 1946 by Prince Nicolas Abkhazi and Princess Peggy Abkhazi—a love story spanning war, exile, and reunion. Blending West Coast natives like Garry oaks and glacial rock with mature rhododendrons, Japanese maples, conifers, alpine bulbs, and serene ponds, the garden unfolds along gravel and stone paths beneath towering floral canopies
- Heritage home & teahouse: The couple’s modest summerhouse now serves as a cozy tearoom offering light lunches, traditional teas, and a chance to relax with garden views
- Garden & Teahouse open daily 11 a.m.–5 p.m.
- Admission by suggested donation: $10 per person—proceeds support garden upkeep
China Town
Victoria’s Chinatown, centered on Fisgard Street and marked by the iconic Gate of Harmonious Interest, is the oldest Chinatown in Canada and the second-oldest in North America, founded in the mid‑1800s during the Fraser River Gold Rush . Initially comprised of simple wooden huts built by Chinese merchants from San Francisco, it grew into a bustling, self-sufficient enclave complete with theatres, schools, temples, opium dens, and hospitals by the early 1900s . Today, Victoria’s Chinatown—designated a National Historic Site in 1995—is a vibrant blend of heritage architecture, narrow alleys like Fan Tan Alley (Canada’s narrowest commercial street), quaint shops, modern cafés, and authentic eateries. The red-and-gold arch, stone lion guardians, and Phoenix-roofed balconies are not just decorative—they echo the resilience, cultural pride, and communal spirit of Chinese Canadians who shaped this enduring neighbourhood.
Exploring:
Butchart Gardens – Victoria’s Butchart Gardens, located about 23 km north of downtown in Brentwood Bay, is a captivating 55‑acre floral sanctuary built on the site of a former limestone quarry. Founded in 1904 by Jennie Butchart and her husband Robert, it has evolved into a series of meticulously landscaped “garden rooms”—including the iconic Sunken Garden, the fragrant Rose Garden, the serene Japanese Garden, and the elegant Italian Garden—showcasing over 900 species and attracting more than a million visitors annually. The estate, still family-run and designated a National Historic Site of Canada in 2004, delights year‑round with seasonal highlights: spring tulip and bulb displays; summer concerts, boat tours, evening illuminations and fireworks; fall foliage and dahlias; and winter magic with Christmas lights, carollers, and ice skating.
Every visit is a sensory journey: stroll sunken terraces lined with vibrant blooms, inhale rose-scented archways, pause by tranquil ponds and fountains (Ross Fountain, Dragon Fountain, Star Pond), and savor afternoon tea or local fare. Sustainable gardening techniques—composting, drip irrigation, natural pest control—reflect the Gardens’ ongoing commitment to environmental stewardship.
Visitors docking at Ogden Point (cruise terminal) are ~25 km from the Gardens (~40–50 minutes by road). Options include:
- Express Shuttle: Leaves from downtown (accessible by terminal shuttle or bus).
- Taxi/Uber: CA$60–150 round-trip.
- BC Transit: Take local bus to Legislature, transfer to #75 bus
Hiking:
The Matheson Lake Loop, tucked into Metchosin just 35–40 minutes west of Victoria, is a scenic 3.8 km moderate circuit around a peaceful forest lake. It features:
- Diverse terrain: mix of wide gravel sections, marshy boardwalks, rocky shoreline paths, and narrow forest lanes.
- Varied difficulty: moderate elevation shifts (40–55 m gain), some steep or slippery rocky bits—great to wear proper footwear.
- Stunning views: lakefront outlooks, small forested islands (like Gillespie Island), and scenic creek crossings.
- Wildlife & refreshment: a sandy beach perfect for swimming or a picnic in summer, plus chances for fishing and birdwatching.
Just 30 minutes west of Victoria, the Lone Tree Hill Hike is a favorite among locals for its short but rewarding climb to panoramic peaks. This 1.6 km (round-trip) trail ascends roughly 100 m, earning a moderate rating – expect some steep, rocky sections, but nothing technical.
- 📏 Distance: ~1.6 km
- ⏱ Time: 45 min to 1 hr round-trip
- 📈 Elevation Gain: ~100 m (364 m summit)
- 🛣 Difficulty: Moderate; steep gravel and rocky sections
- 🚻 Amenities: Small gravel parking, pit toilet at the trailhead
Hidden Gems:
- Moss Lady- Greenery cloaks this serene sculpture inspired by the famous Lost Gardens of Heligan.
- Fan Tan Alley – The narrowest street in Canada was once a spot for dastardly doings, now a historic piece of Chinatown.
- Fisgard Lighthouse – An operating lighthouse from the 1860’s.
- Mile 0 – A monument stands at one of the starting lines of the Trans-Canada Highway, formerly the longest uninterrupted highway in the world.
- Pterosaur Jaw Bone – The first flying reptile discovered in British Columbia was for years forgotten in a cabinet.
- Macaulay Point Ruins – Hidden within the waterfront hills resides this dilapidated military stronghold.
- Centre of the Universe – a cheeky name for an observatory visitor’s center.
Tasting:
- Victoria Public Market – Artisan food stalls and local vendors
- Red Fish Blue Fish – Oceanfront fish & chips made sustainably
- Nourish Kitchen & Café – Seasonal farm-to-table fare in a historic house
- Tea at the Empress – Traditional afternoon tea with views of the harbour
- Local Craft Beer – Try a pint at Phillips Brewing or Vancouver Island Brewing
Checkerhead Brewing – n 2015, David received a “Brew Your Own Beer” kit for Father’s Day, and it felt like being handed the keys to a car for the first time. The realization that he could actually make beer himself was thrilling. He hasn’t looked back since.
Since 1981, David has traveled the world as a comedy juggler, crossing paths with some of the most uniquely gifted weirdos on the planet. Inspired by these glorious misfits — people he deeply admires — he began brewing beers that celebrate their personalities and spirit. His mission: to craft beers that are
Inspired by clowns.
Enjoyed by all.
Located in Shirley, about an hour from Victoria.
Travel Tips:
Currency & Cards
Canadian currency is used, but most places accept U.S. dollars and major credit cards. You’ll receive change in Canadian dollars. Tipping customs are similar to the U.S.
Mind the Crosswalks
In Victoria, pedestrians do not always have the right of way unless indicated. Use crosswalks and wait for signals.
Leave Your Name Tag Onboard
For your privacy and safety, it’s best not to wear your cruise ship name tag ashore. It can signal that you’re a visitor and may attract unwanted attention.