About the building
Mermaid Wharf is an iconic 5-storey steel and concrete waterfront building situated at 409 Swift Street in Victoria's historic Old Town. Completed in 2000 by the Limona Group, the development features 98 modern industrial-style units with 9-foot ceilings, gas fireplaces, and large windows overlooking the Upper Harbour. It is one of the few buildings in Victoria with zoning that permits short-term vacation rentals, making it a highly sought-after destination for both residents and investors.
Mermaid Wharf is registered as strata plan VIS4930, built on a poured-concrete foundation with brick facing; Citified credits Tenfold Projects with the project. Suites run from studios of around 520 square feet to one-bedroom-and-den plans in the 700s and 800s, and the top-floor corner homes have nine-foot ceilings and private roof patios of more than 580 square feet reached by their own stair. Gas fireplaces are common.
Residents share a rooftop deck with barbecues and harbour views, bike and kayak storage and a private kayak dock, and the ground-floor patios open directly onto the David Foster Harbour Pathway. Secure underground parking and an elevator serve the building, and the strata fee includes gas, hot water, water and the caretaker. One listing reports pets allowed with no restrictions and no rental restrictions; confirm the current short-term rental rules with the strata and the City. Chinatown, Market Square and the Johnson Street Bridge are a block or two away.
About Downtown
Victoria’s Downtown is the most rapidly growing neighbourhood in the city. New residents of all ages are attracted to the area’s rich historic character and its vibrant waterfront. The downtown has a thriving arts, culture and entertainment district combined with an impressive variety of dining and shopping choices, all within easy walking distance. The Royal BC Museum and Chinatown (Canada’s oldest) are perennial attractions for visitors and residents alike. The neighbourhood also hosts celebrated landmarks like the Empress Hotel, provincial Parliament Buildings and the Royal and McPherson Theatres.
Parks
The Downtown neighbourhood has green space along the waterfront, which includes Reeson Park near the Johnson Street Bridge. Cridge Park is located to the south, next to the downtown Lawn Bowling Club and Crystal Garden and near the entrance to Beacon Hill Park. Centennial Square, situated next to Victoria’s historic City Hall, is the downtown’s primary venue for events.
Schools
Chinese Public School (Chinese language and cultural classes for children and adults)
Victoria Conservatory of Music
Victoria Academy of Ballet
Victoria School of Contemporary Dance
Pacific Design Academy
Over 15 English language schools
Gardens & Markets
The Yates Street Community Garden is operated by the Downtown Residents Association
Bastion Square Public Market runs Thursdays to Sundays between May and end of September
Ship Point Night Market operates Friday and Saturday evenings from mid June to mid September.
About Victoria
Victoria’s Downtown is the vibrant heart of British Columbia’s capital city, blending historic charm with modern urban energy. It is the city’s most rapidly growing neighbourhood, attracting new residents of all ages to its mix of heritage architecture, bustling waterfront, and thriving cultural scene. With scenic harbour views and tree-lined streets, downtown Victoria offers a dynamic urban lifestyle while remaining walkable and accessible.
The area boasts a rich arts, culture, and entertainment district, featuring galleries, theatres, live music venues, and festivals throughout the year. Residents and visitors enjoy an impressive variety of dining, shopping, and service options, all within convenient walking distance. Historic and iconic landmarks, such as the Royal BC Museum, the Fairmont Empress Hotel, the provincial Parliament Buildings, and Canada’s oldest Chinatown, provide both character and a strong sense of place. The Royal and McPherson Theatres further enhance the city’s reputation as a hub for the performing arts.
Downtown Victoria’s waterfront plays a central role in community life, offering promenades, marinas, and public spaces that encourage outdoor recreation and social engagement. The combination of rich history, vibrant culture, and urban amenities makes downtown Victoria a highly desirable neighbourhood for residents who value both convenience and quality of life.
Today, Victoria continues to grow while maintaining its unique blend of heritage, modern development, and coastal beauty, making it a welcoming and dynamic place to live, work, and explore.
