This brand new ferry service from downtown Vancouver has opened the doors for locals and tourists alike to fully experience BC’s newest wine region, the Cowichan Valley in a single day.
Cowichan Valley Wine Tours
Nestled on Vancouver Island, the Cowichan Valley is rapidly becoming a must-visit wine region, celebrated for its unique terroir and diverse varietals. In Hul'q'umi'num', Quw’utsun or Cowichan, translates to the warm land. With the warmest average temperature on Vancouver Island, the Mediterranean-like climate provides ideal conditions for cool-climate varietals such as Pinot Noir, Pinot Gris, and Chardonnay. While many still think of BC wines only from inland the province, boutique wineries in the Cowichan Valley have been quietly gaining worldwide recognition, securing both national and worldwide metals year after year.
Planning the Trip
There are endless reasons to visit Vancouver Island from Vancouver, with wine being high on the list. But if you’re tight for time or would prefer a short trip, Hullo Ferry’s new service from downtown Vancouver to Nanaimo is the perfect way to access Twofiveo Tour Co.’s highly rated Nothin’ To Wine About Cowichan Valley Wine Tour and be back home before bedtime.
When To Go
This Cowichan Valley wine tour is offered from Spring to late Fall, and can even be booked in the Winter upon request for bigger groups. Summer is of course the peak season for tours and space on weekends fills up fast. Spring and Fall are the shoulder seasons for wine tours making them ideal for those who want to avoid the crowds and enjoy the pleasant temperatures that the Cowichan Valley offers.
How To Book
Twofiveo’s Cowichan Valley wine tour bookings are as easy as ever to book either online or over the phone. If you’d prefer to call, we can let you know which ferry time to book as Hullo’s ferry schedule varies by day and time of year. If you’d prefer to book online, select the pickup from Nanaimo option and be sure to mention that you plan to take the Hullo ferry in the booking form. We will get back to you with which ferry times to book and will provide you with a discount code that Hullo has generously offered exclusively for Twofiveo’s guests valid for through September and October 2024. Once your wine tour is booked and you have the Hullo discount code, simply visit their website to book your ferry rides online.
Getting to Vancouver Island
Hullo Ferry’s service departs from behind the Vancouver Convention Centre, easily accessible by all public transport in the heart of Downtown Vancouver. There’s no need to arrive super early, but make sure to show up there at least 10 minutes before your scheduled departure time to get to the dock and board the vessel.
This fast trip only takes about an hour and a quarter to get from downtown Vancouver to downtown Nanaimo. Enjoy the scenic boat ride and Twofiveo will be there on the other side to pick you up and set off on the Cowichan Valley wine tour!
About the Wine Tour
Your friendly driver and guide will welcome you in the port where you head towards the Cowichan Valley to visit four well selected winery’s. Throughout the day you’ll not only sample the wine but also gain an understanding about each wineries unique approach to Valley varietals.
Not only is this a great way to experience the region, but this wine tour makes a great activity for get-togethers and celebrations like birthdays, bachelorette parties, family trips, etc.
Our bus is equipped with bluetooth and karaoke! Whether you want to get on the mic and sing your heart out, or just relax and enjoy the valley views, Twofiveo Tour Co. is here to accommodate whatever kind of experience you’re looking for.
Lunch
Several Cowichan Wineries have a picnic policy allowing guests to have lunch during their tasting. For an additional fee, Twofiveo will arrange a sandwich platter from a local deli for guests to enjoy at one of our relaxing winery stops. Be sure to note any dietary restrictions when booking so that they can be accommodated. Alternatively, there is an option to arrange a restaurant stop upon request. When you make your booking, be sure to explain your lunch preferences and you will be contacted to confirm the day is customized exactly how you’d like it to be.
What’s Included
A friendly driver, guide and shoulder to cry on
Pick up and drop off from the Nanaimo Hullo Ferry terminal
A visit to four Cowichan wineries
All associated tasting fees
A discount code for your Hullo Ferry booking
Bottled water on the bus
Bluetooth and Karaoke on the bus
What to Bring
Two pieces of government issued ID
Dress for the weather
Gratuities are always appreciated
Drop off
You will be dropped off at the Hullo Ferry Nanaimo terminal at the predetermined time decided when your wine tour booking was made, depending on Hullo Ferry’s schedule. You should expect to arrive back in Vancouver around 9:00pm or earlier.
Have a question about something? Check out the FAQ page or Contact Us.
We had an incredible time on this winery tour and I would absolutely recommend Twofiveo Tour Co to anyone wishing to visit some wineries on Vancouver Island! Erika was so wonderful and lovely to deal with when booking the tour, and even organized a delicious sandwich platter for our group of 11 including veggie and coeliac options for our lunch midway through the tour. The selection of wineries we visited were all so unique and the wines were incredible in every single one! Api was such a great (and very patient) guide who went above and beyond to ensure we had the best experience possible and we really enjoyed his company. I would also have to give him 5 stars for putting up with our attempts at karaoke on the bus! Our entire group unanimously agreed that if we ever come back to the Cowichan Valley to do a wine tour we will try to book with Erika and Api again.
The Cowichan Valley is an up and coming wine scene with charming boutique wineries and breathtaking vineyard views. Whether you're a seasoned wine enthusiast or a casual taster, exploring the Cowichan Valley promises a delightful journey through exquisite wines and scenic beauty. Book your tour today!
Interested in Brewery, Cidery and Distillery Tours? Check out the Little of Everything Craft Mix Tour. This tour is a great alternative day trip from Vancouver too.
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