Top Vancouver On the Water

See a different side to Vancouver as you explore the city from the water and explore spots that can only be reached by boat. Hop aboard for a scenic boat cruise through English Bay, exploring Vancouver’s city sights and natural wonders along the way. Pass by Lighthouse Park, Stanley Park, False Creek, and the Lions Gate Bridge, and visit the rocky Grebe Islets, known for their seal colonies.

There aren’t many places in the world where you can go snorkeling in a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve. On this half-day small-group boat tour, head to Howe Sound for a snorkeling and kayaking adventure. Look out for the region’s diverse range of wildlife—including whales, seals, sea lions, and porpoises—as you ride through rugged natural landscapes framed by lush forests and craggy mountains.

Kayak in Howe Sound and snorkel with Vancouver's resident harbor seals during this half-day eco-adventure. Board a boat from Horseshoe Bay with your adventure guide, headed toward the Pam Rocks seal colony. Slip into the provided snorkel gear and wetsuit, then dive in for an up-close experience with seals, following their lead. Kayak around the bay and the rocks, experiencing the marine environment while in a low-profile boat. A sightseeing-only option is available for those passengers who wish to stay dry on the boat. All kayaking and snorkeling equipment, refreshments and light snacks are included.

See Vancouver’s sights from a different perspective as you explore its waterways by boat. Join a small group and board your vessel for a cruise from False Creek. Make several stops along the way including Stanley Park, Lions Gate Bridge, and English Bay. Your skipper also takes you close to the city’s resident sea lion colony near Lighthouse Park to observe the marine animals.

There are many places across to take in views of Vancouver’s striking skyline, but most of them are in the busy city and can get quite crowded. But on this sightseeing boat cruise, you’ll be able to take in uninterrupted city and natural vistas. Head out into the waters of False Creek, ride past English Bay, sail past the Lions Gate Bridge, and much more.

This half-day whale-watching adventure from downtown Vancouver gives you the chance to see whales and other marine life, all with minimal logistical hassle. Hop aboard your luxurious catamaran, complete with heated indoor space and outdoor decks, and set sail. You'll learn all about the local history and geology from your naturalist guides, and can soak up views of the Pacific Northwest scenery while looking out for whales, seals, eagles, and other wildlife.

Skip the stress of renting a car with this scenic day trip from Vancouver to Whistler. Travel through BC’s fjords, inlets, and mountains with a guide providing commentary, enjoy photo stops along the way, and ride the Sea to Sky Gondola before free time in Whistler Village. With included transportation and hotel pickup and drop-off, relax and experience British Columbia’s natural beauty in a seamless, hassle-free way.

Your guide will give you a recount of Vancouver history while updating you on many of the newest and most interesting ventures of the City. The Kayak and Coffee tour departs from our Granville Island location in our Sit-On-Top or Sea Kayaks . At this time of day, the water smooth. Paddle through some of Vancouver's most luxurious marinas and historic waterways. Stop on the beach and fuel up with a Coffee and Snack. This is our most popular paddle tour.

Enjoy the exquisite waterfront views of Canada's premier West Coast city on a leisurely Vancouver Harbour sightseeing cruise. Travel past landmarks sites such as world-renowned Stanley Park and the city's rejuvenated Gastown district, marvel at the incredible North Shore Mountains from atop an open-air deck, and admire the stunning Lions' Gate Bridge. Choose from various departure times to suit your travel schedule.

Become more familiar with whales and other marine life on this whale-watching tour from Granville Island in Vancouver. Explore the Salish Sea and Strait of Georgia with a guide who shares interesting facts about sea life as you search for orcas, humpback whales, seals, sea lions, and sea birds. As it’s a small-group tour, you have plenty of opportunities to ask questions.

Trade the hustle and bustle of Vancouver for an immersive nature trip when you book tickets to Grouse Mountain. This outdoor and cultural park offers a range of seasonal attractions throughout the year, from wildlife viewing and family-friendly shows to the Skyride aerial tram. Book in advance to guarantee your admission—then, upon arrival, explore at your own pace and add on experiences that interest you most.

Head off the coast of Steveston Village for the chance to see British Columbia’s whales and a vast variety of other maritime wildlife on this half-day tour. Hop aboard a whalewatching vessel and journey through the Canadian Gulf Islands as you cross the Straight of Georgia, all the while carefully watching for signs of killer whales, humpback whales, seals, sea lions, and much more.

See Vancouver's dramatic skyline from the water on a small-group cruise in an inflatable Zodiac boat that accommodates just a small group of passengers. Navigate Vancouver Harbour, North Shore, English Bay, and False Creek, spotting some of the city's top sights and landmarks along the way. And since Vancouver Harbour is home to bald eagles, harbor seals, and dolphins, keep your camera ready and watch for wildlife as you go.

Get a new perspective on Vancouver by getting out onto the water. This small-group boat tour takes you sailing around the city and its harbor aboard a 50-foot Jeanneau sailboat departing from North Vancouver. Relax with an included drink and snack as you take in the views of Coal Harbour, Stanley Park, Passage and Bowen Islands, Point Atkinson, Howe Sound, and more.

Many of the best spots to see the Vancouver skyline can get pretty busy, so get away from the crowds by enjoying cityscape and mountain views from the water on this small-group boat cruise. Enjoy some complimentary alcoholic drinks and light snacks as you sail through the Vancouver coastal waters, taking in views of Stanley Park, the Lions Gate Bridge, and much more. A chance to see

Not everyone wants a hardcore, all-day fishing mission. Coastal Catch and Cruise is a relaxed 4-hour “try-it-without-the-grind” experience that mixes sightseeing with a casual, guided catch session. Departing from a central downtown Vancouver marina, you’ll cruise toward the West Vancouver Lighthouse area for scenic coastline views and hands-on fun: flounder fishing, plus Dungeness crab and spot prawns (where permitted and conditions allow). You’ll ride on a 3-Star boat with practical comfort for real time on the water—an enclosed cabin/helm, comfortable seating, an enclosed restroom, basic galley function, and weather protection to keep the trip enjoyable if wind or spray picks up.

Immerse yourself in the splendor of British Columbia's wild scenery, and make visiting one of Vancouver's top sights stress-free, when you prebook admission tickets to Capilano Suspension Bridge Park. Choose from a range of start times, and have the freedom to explore independently: Hike through the temperate rainforest, admire views from the Capilano Suspension Bridge, take in the thrilling Cliffwalk, and more.

Turn dinner into an adventure with this Zodiac tour from Vancouver to Bowen Island at the mouth of Howe Sound. In addition to dinner and a drink at a restaurant on Bowen, your experience includes a high-speed boat ride, ocean-ready gear, and sightseeing along the Vancouver waterfront.

Ride out into the waters off the coast of Vancouver and experience the Howe Sound Fjord—a UNESCO biosphere reserve—on this 4-hour small-group boat tour. Meet your guide at the bustling hub of Granville Island before exploring the cerulean waters of False Creek. Pass by downtown Vancouver, Stanley Park, Lighthouse Park, and more, before docking to explore Bowen Island, stopping to enjoy a complimentary alcoholic beverage, specialty coffee, or ice cream.

Delight in the beauty of British Columbia—and discover views that many other visitors miss—on a lunchtime cruise to the Indian Arm fjord. Enjoy a unique dining experience as you float through Vancouver’s Inner Harbor and Burrard Inlet en route to the fjord. Stroll the deck; indulge in a freshly prepared buffet meal; and take in the beautiful sights including the Coast Mountains, verdant forests, and local wildlife.

Paddle the coastal waters of Howe Sound on this guided kayaking tour. Take a tour boat out of West Vancouver before hopping into your kayak (or onto your stand-up paddleboard) to discover marine wildlife and views of towering mountains. With no experience needed, and all equipment included, this half-day tour lets you relax on the water.

Departing from historic Granville Island, join Vancouver’s Original Whale Watchers on an intimate west coast adventure. Every tour is different as we explore the Strait of Georgia, Howe Sound, the Canadian Gulf Islands, and beyond in search of killer whales, humpbacks, seals, sea lions, eagles, and more! Sightings guaranteed or your next trip is free. Your adventure is professionally guided by a marine naturalist who will share insight on animal behaviour and provide you with a personalized educational experience. You will learn about the wildlife, ecology, history, and geography of our coast with particular emphasis on marine conservation. Tours vary between 3-5 hours depending on where the whales are on the day of your adventure.

This cruise offers a more relaxed and comfortable way to see Vancouver from the water. Unlike larger sightseeing boats or high-speed tours, our custom small-group pontoon features lounge-style sofa seating, close-to-the-water views, and an open layout for panoramic sightseeing and photos. Guests can take in both Vancouver’s vibrant downtown waterfront and its beautiful natural scenery, including coastal views, open water, and mountain backdrops. The experience feels more like enjoying Vancouver from a floating lounge, with a smooth ride, light local commentary, onboard music, and a more personal atmosphere throughout the cruise. With its smooth ride and comfortable layout, it is especially well-suited for guests looking for a calmer sightseeing experience, including couples, families, and multi-generational groups.