DISCOVER VANCOUVER CITY BUS & BOAT TOUR
Overview
This full-day tour covers the tourist essentials when visiting Vancouver. Visit the landmarks and hidden gems that make Vancouver the vibrant city it is. Enjoy a visit to Stanley Park, where there is one of the most impressive collections of totem poles in downtown Vancouver. Tour past English Bay Beach and Gastown. Soak in the incredible views from the top of the Vancouver Lookout, and explore Granville Island, home of Vancouver’s most famous food market. Following an exciting sightseeing tour on land, board a zodiac boat to continue your adventure on the water. From this unique vantage point, experience stunning city views and uncover the vibrant marine life that thrives just offshore. After your boat tour you will return to where your tour began. This tour is best suited for families, young at heart travellers, and newcomers to Vancouver.
Itinerary
Please note that this is a sample itinerary and it is subject to change due to unforeseen circumstances, such as weather or road closures.
A day in Vancouver
- Kick off your adventure at Canada Place and Jack Poole Plaza, where you’ll see the iconic Olympic Cauldron, a lasting legacy of Vancouver’s 2010 Winter Games
- Head over to Stanley Park, where you’ll encounter the First Nations Totem Poles collection, and have the chance to join your guide for an optional walking tour. Uncover the history and stories of the Indigenous peoples of the land
- Take a scenic stroll along the Seawall toward Prospect Point, where you’ll be treated to views of the Lions Gate Bridge and the rugged North Shore Mountains
- Then, enjoy a driving tour featuring Vancouver’s must-see spots, from the sandy shores of English Bay and the lively West End to the False Creek waterfront and historic Gastown, the city’s original neighborhood known for its famous steam clock
- Ride a glass elevator up the Vancouver Lookout, where sweeping, 360-degree views of the city await (admission included)
- Visit Granville Island, a charming urban oasis brimming with things to do. Enjoy some free time for lunch and a bit of shopping, explore the bustling public market, browse art galleries, or unwind with a coffee as you take in the waterfront views of False Creek
- Join a City and Seals Boat Tour departing from Granville Island (included). Learn about local history while you discover the marine wildlife off Vancouver’s shores. You can also upgrade to a Granite Falls Tour for an additional cost
- Return to your preferred pick-up location at approximately 5:30pm, or purchase Vancouver attraction tickets at our office to continue your adventure
*Photo courtesy of ©Vancouver Water Adventures
Canada Place & Jack Poole Plaza
Begin your journey at two of Vancouver’s iconic waterfront landmarks: Canada Place and Jack Poole Plaza. Shaped like a sailing ship, Canada Place embodies Canadian pride and serves as a central hub for tourism. Right next door, Jack Poole Plaza offers stunning views of the harbor and mountains and is home to the Olympic Cauldron, a symbol of the 2010 Winter Games and the four host First Nations. This area captures the spirit of Vancouver’s cultural energy and beauty.
Stanley Park & Brockton Point
Next, visit Stanley Park, one of Vancouver’s premier attractions and a stunning coastal rainforest filled with diverse plants and towering trees. Surrounded by mountain views and the city skyline, the park offers an incredible natural escape. You’ll also have the option to take a short guided tour of the First Nations Totem Poles at Brockton Point, showcasing intricate carvings from various Indigenous Nations, with some poles dating back to the 1880s.
West End & English Bay
Leaving Stanley Park, head into Vancouver’s lively urban core. The West End, a trendy neighborhood, offers a unique blend of city life and scenic beauty. At English Bay, or First Beach, you’ll find sandy shores and stunning sunset views. This spot is also famous for the annual Polar Bear Swim, where brave participants have taken a New Year’s Day plunge since 1920.
False Creek & Gastown
Continue your bus tour through False Creek and historic Gastown. False Creek provides unique city views from all directions and is home to the iconic Science World, a geodesic dome originally built for Expo 86 and now a beloved science center. In Gastown, Vancouver’s oldest district, stroll along cobblestone streets and catch a glimpse of the famous steam clock, a charming nod to the city’s past amid its modern skyline.
Vancouver Lookout
This 168-meter tower, an easily recognizable landmark, provides unbeatable views of Vancouver. From the top, take in the city’s mix of urban skyline, North Shore Mountains, and the glistening Pacific Ocean. A swift glass-elevator ride brings you up, where you can capture photos, enjoy the sights, and get an impressive overview of this beautiful coastal city.
Granville Island
Cross the bridge to Granville Island, a charming peninsula in the heart of Vancouver. Known for its bustling public market filled with fresh produce, artisanal foods, and handcrafted items, this area invites you to wander its vibrant streets. You’ll have free time to browse galleries, shops, and choose a perfect spot for lunch.
City and Seals Boat Tour
For the last stop of your tour ,climb aboard a Zodiac boat for a thrilling ride along Vancouver’s stunning waterfront. Your journey will take you past scenic landmarks like Stanley Park, Siwash Rock, Lighthouse Park, and into the lively waters of False Creek. Along the way, visit a bustling seal colony and soak in incredible views of West Vancouver, including luxury celebrity homes. Your guide will share fascinating stories about local history, geology, and the beauty of Howe Sound, adding depth to this unforgettable coastal experience.
FAQs
What does the City and Seals Boat Tour consist on?
The City and Seals Boat Tour includes a Zodiac boat ride equipped with safety gear and provided waterproof jackets. Participants will enjoy a guided experience, highlighting local wildlife, landmarks, and history.
This part of the tour ensures an intimate and refreshing experience of Vancouver from the water. Each trip lasts approximately 2 hours, allowing for ample time to explore and learn about the surrounding environment.
What is my departure time and location?
We offer daily morning departures of this tour during its operational season.
You can check availability in the provided calendar and book your desired date online or through an agent. When completing the booking, select a pick-up location in downtown Vancouver from the options available. The pick-up time for each location will appear next to it. Arrive at your chosen pick-up point at least 15 minutes before specified departure.
If you need to change your pick-up location, please inform us prior to departure.
Can I purchase additional activities in Vancouver?
Absolutely! Visit our office at 636 Hornby Street in downtown Vancouver to buy tickets for the top local attractions and sports events at special rates.
Options include the Capilano Suspension Bridge Park, Harbour Air, Flyover in Vancouver, Grouse Mountain Gondola, and various local hockey, football, soccer, and lacrosse games. Our knowledgeable staff is available to provide recommendations and additional information.
Please contact us if you don’t see any availability that fits your schedule. We will try our best to accommodate you when possible.
Coming Back Soon!
Duration
Size
Adult (13+)
Child (3-12)
May 1 - October 13, 2024 | See confirmation email for exact departure times
Pick Up Times
Highlights
- Get to know the city that has it all: nature, a lively urban scene, and a vibrant community
- Stop at the famed Stanley Park with and take in the beautiful scenery
- Join an informative & fun guided walking tour of the Totem Poles at Brockton Point
- Drive through the trendy West End and the adventurous English Bay Beach
- Enjoy panoramic views of the city from the Vancouver Lookout tower
- Stop at Granville Island and stroll through the Public Market and the shopping & entertainment streets
Inclusions
What to Bring:
- Sweater or jacket in case it’s a chilly day (recommended)
- Light rainjacket in case of drizzle and for the boat tour
- Comfortable walking shoes
- Sunscreen & sunglasses
- Backpack
- Reusable water bottle
- 2 pieces of ID
- Camera (recommended)