Part of what makes Vancouver scenery so spectacular is the combination of water and mountains–the downtown peninsula is surrounded by English Bay (the Pacific Ocean), False Creek (the waterway that runs south of downtown), and the Burrard Inlet. Consequently, boat tours and cruises are an excellent way to experience Vancouver’s outdoor beauty, particularly on sunny days, though they remain enjoyable even in the rain.

Most boat tours and cruises operate mainly from late April to October, which marks the summer season. However, if you plan to visit Vancouver between October and April, it is advisable to check the official company websites for information on private tours/charters and special events. For example, Harbour Cruises offers boat tours of the Carol Ships Parade of Light in December. Non-tour options, like the Aquabus, are available year-round, providing flexibility for visitors.

Harbour Cruises

Harbour Cruises is one of Vancouver’s oldest city cruise companies, providing a diverse range of tours. For travelers and sightseeing enthusiasts, their one-hour Vancouver Harbour Tour (available from late April through September) serves as an excellent introduction to the city. This tour features a narrated experience of the sights on the Burrard Inlet, along with fantastic photo opportunities and views of the Vancouver skyline, North Shore mountains, and Stanley Park. Additionally, they offer Sunset Dinner Cruises during the summer season.

In late July and early August, there are Fireworks Cruises, providing a unique opportunity to view the annual Celebration of Light Fireworks.

The Vancouver Aquabus

The Vancouver Aquabus operates as a mini “water bus” designed for ferrying people around False Creek. Unlike a traditional boat tour, it does not include a tour guide or amenities. Many locals utilize the Aquabus for easy transit from Yaletown to Granville Island, among other routes.

For visitors, the Aquabus presents an economical way to see Vancouver from the water. It operates year-round regardless of the weather, making eight stops around False Creek, including Science World. You can start from Granville Island and hop on and off, or stay onboard for the full circular route, making it a convenient sightseeing option. Families with children may find this option particularly appealing as it allows for easy disembarking at multiple points, making it a more flexible experience than an organized tour.

False Creek Ferries

Similar to the Aquabus, False Creek Ferries are small boats favored by locals for transportation around False Creek. They offer an excellent sightseeing experience at a low cost, allowing you to remain aboard for the entire route or hop on and off at designated stops.

Starting from Granville Island, False Creek Ferries make stops at Vanier Park (home to the Museum of Vancouver, Vancouver Maritime Museum, and Bard on the Beach), Yaletown, Science World, and the Vancouver Aquatic Centre (one of the city’s top indoor public pools).

Accent Cruises Dinner Cruises

While Harbour Cruises operate on the Burrard Inlet north of downtown, Accent Cruises’ public summer Dinner Cruises begin from Granville Island, sailing northwest around Stanley Park. This route provides stunning views of several Vancouver landmarks, including Vanier Park, Kitsilano Beach, and English Bay Beach, alongside the city skyline and Vancouver’s iconic bridges (Burrard Bridge, Granville Street Bridge, and Lion’s Gate Bridge). Additionally, private charters are available year-round for those seeking a unique experience.

It is worth noting that Accent Cruises are dinner cruises rather than traditional sightseeing tours, providing a delightful culinary experience alongside the beautiful views.

Summer Salsa Cruises

Crowned as the Best Boat Cruise in Vancouver during Georgia Straight’s Best of Vancouver Awards 2014, the Summer Salsa Cruises (running from July to August) feature “the best in Latin music on three levels of the largest cruising vessel in Vancouver, the MV Britannia.” Additionally, there are family-friendly day cruises available, making it a perfect outing for both adults and children.