Plenty of private tour operators are waiting for you on shore. Most offer ship return guarantees, and most are cheaper (and often smaller and more personalized tours) than what the cruise line offers. The selection is sometimes more extensive, too.
Saw tons of humpback whales. Smaller boat, 16 people. Knowledgeable operators, very safe. The celebrity naturalist was actually aboard the non-celebrity tour. Saved fifty bucks.
Sit on left side of train going up. Better photo ops because train travels slower uphill. Bundle up, it's cold up there. Don't bother booking privately, you only save $5.
Save a bundle, take the shuttle to town and get your own high tea at the Empress. Then walk into town and enjoy one of the several Irish and Scottish pubs, many with live music.
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