Indulge in the most storied afternoon tea in Canada inside the Fairmont Empress's grand Bengal Room — a ceremony of finger sandwiches, house-blended Empress teas, freshly baked scones, and patisserie that has welcomed royalty since 1908.
What to expect
Be seated in the elegantly restored Lobby Lounge or Bengal Room, surrounded by Edwardian columns and a hum of refined conversation. A three-tiered stand arrives laden with house-made finger sandwiches, warm scones with Devonshire cream and house jam, and a selection of handcrafted patisserie. Choose from over 20 loose-leaf tea blends including the proprietary Empress Blend. The service is unhurried, gracious, and exactly what a luxury port day deserves.
Good to know
Reservations are absolutely essential — book directly on the Fairmont Empress website at least 2–4 weeks ahead for peak summer sailings. Smart-casual dress is required; jackets for gentlemen are appreciated. The hotel is a 5-minute walk from the cruise terminal on the Inner Harbour. Sittings typically last 1.5 hours; confirm your all-aboard time.
Sail there
Luxury cruises that call at Victoria — book through us, the fare is identical and your concierge stays on your side.
More to do in Victoria
- Private Whale Watching Expedition: Orcas & Marine Wildlife
- Butchart Gardens: After-Hours Illuminations & Private Garden Walk
- Galavant Private Victoria Highlights Tour in a Luxury Vehicle
- Craigdarroch Castle: Gilded Robber-Baron Mansion Exploration
- Malahat Skywalk: Spiral Tower & Forest Canopy Walk Above Saanich Inlet