Oh, hello there! I’m BOB, your friendly rubber duck, ready to take you on a splishy-splashy tour of the fabulous Ogden Point Breakwater in beautiful Victoria, British Columbia! Just imagine me bobbing along the waves, soaking in the sun, as I glide through this marvel of engineering.
It’s a gloriously sunny day, and the sparkling waters beckon me from Dallas Road. I waddle my way along the iconic breakwater, which stretches like a great concrete arm out into the mesmerizing Juan de Fuca Strait. What a fantastic view! I can see all sorts of vessels – cruise ships making grand entrances, ferries zipping across the harbour, and even float planes buzzing overhead. I kept my eyes out for wildlife sightings, such as seals, but alas, I did not spot any on our visit.
Now, let me spill the tea (or rather the seawater). Did you know that this breakwater was built because the City of Victoria wanted to welcome more shipping traffic after the Panama Canal opened? Smart thinking! With the powerful southeast gales trying to gatecrash the port, they needed some solid protection for the ships.
Construction on this beauty began way back in 1913. Over a million tonnes of stone and another million tonnes of granite were used – that’s a quack-load of rock! And through the years, Ogden Point has seen all kinds of action: grain terminals, fish processing plants, and major fires, oh my!
But today, oh boy, it’s a vibrant haven for both locals and visitors. In 1997, the first phase of public access opened, allowing more ducky pals and humans alike to enjoy the stunning views and get up close to the bustling marine life. And in 2002, the Greater Victoria Harbour Authority took charge to ensure this lovely spot remains a go-to destination for frolicking and fun.
As I float along, I can spot the lighthouse waving hello at the end of the breakwater. It’s not just there for decoration! This trusty beacon helps guide ships safely into the harbour. And trust me, from this vantage point, the views are breathtaking. I can peer south toward the strait, west to Macaulay Point Park, and north to the bustling James Bay area. My humans and I sat on the benches at the base of the lighthouse, mesmerized by the serenity of the view.
Now, I must caution my fellow adventurers: If you decide to explore the lower levels of the breakwater, be careful! Those large cement blocks can get quite slippery when wet, and I wouldn’t want you to take an unexpected dip. So, tread lightly, and watch out for those waves! When we were there, many humans were exploring the lower level, some diving in search of treasures, some fishing likely for a whale, and some just enjoying the thrill of navigating the original structure and the picturesque indigenous artwork that adorns the sides of the breakwater.
My journey did not include an adventure to the lower levels of the breakwater, but what it did include was a stop at the Breakwater Café and Bar for a cocktail and a bite to eat. My only regret is that I did not save space in my ducky tummy for a visit to the ice cream shop! Next time….
So, if you find yourself in Victoria on a sunny day, don’t just paddle around – hop on over to Ogden Point Breakwater! Whether you’re a rubber duck like me or a two-legged adventurer, there’s something magical waiting for everyone. Dive into the experience, soak in the scenery, and quack your heart out!
NEVER MISS A
