Vancouver offers some of the most scenic and diverse boat tours and cruises in Canada. Unlike many cities, Vancouver’s location on the Pacific Coast means you can explore both urban water vistas and wild natural landscapes. Whether you’re after a relaxing harbor cruise, an energetic zodiac adventure, or a sophisticated dinner cruise, the options are plentiful. We love tours like the Vancouver: Victoria, Gulf Islands Cruise, & Butchart Gardens for its combination of sightseeing, wildlife spotting, and time to explore Victoria’s historic streets. Others, like the Sailing Experience on a 50′ sailboat, provide a more intimate, hands-on sailing adventure. No matter your style, Vancouver’s waterfront provides a rich variety of memorable experiences.
Quick Overview
This list includes full-day tours to Victoria and the Gulf Islands, short scenic boat rides around Vancouver’s harbor, wildlife-focused excursions, and evening dinner cruises. There are eco-adventures, luxury yacht trips, and family-friendly options among the choices. Each offers something unique—be it the chance to explore the Butchart Gardens, learn about local marine wildlife, or enjoy vancouver’s skyline from the water. Read on to find the perfect boat tour or cruise for your trip.
1. Vancouver: Victoria, Gulf Islands Cruise, & Butchart Gardens
This full-day coach and ferry trip takes you from Vancouver to Victoria, with a highlight being Butchart Gardens, justifiably famous for its stunning floral displays. The tour includes comfortable coach transport, a relaxing 90-minute ferry crossing, and two hours to explore Victoria’s Inner Harbour and downtown. You can visit iconic sights like the Royal BC Museum, the Empress Hotel, or Chinatown.
What makes this trip stand out is the combination of scenic ferry rides, easy access to Victoria, and a chance to wander independently in a city rich with history and charm. With a 4.7/5 rating from over 1,000 reviews, travelers appreciate the well-organized itinerary and the chance to see British Columbia’s capital without the hassle. For those wanting a flexible day trip that balances sightseeing and free exploration, this tour offers great value at $165.
Bottom line: Perfect for travelers who want a full-day adventure, mixing natural beauty with urban charm, all in one seamless trip.
2. Post-cruise: Vancouver Tour with Lookout & Capilano Bridge
This tour is ideal for travelers arriving in Vancouver who want a rundown of the city’s highlights in a single day. It covers downtown, Chinatown, Gastown, Granville Island, and the Vancouver Lookout, offering panoramic city views. Then, it crosses the Lions Gate Bridge to visit the Capilano Suspension Bridge and the exciting Cliffwalk, with its glass floors and views over the rainforest.
With a perfect 5-star rating from 471 reviews, this tour is praised for its smooth organization and excellent guides. It’s a great value at $144.06, especially since it includes hotel pickup and drop-off from many downtown and airport hotels. The combination of urban sightseeing, natural scenery, and adrenaline-pumping suspension bridges makes it a well-rounded experience.
Bottom line: An excellent choice for first-time visitors who want to see Vancouver’s cityscape and natural wonders in one go.
3. Vancouver City and Seals Scenic Boat Tour by Vancouver Water Adventures
This 90-minute scenic boat tour takes you along Vancouver’s coastline, focusing on the Seal Colony, Lighthouse Park, and False Creek. Led by a knowledgeable local guide, the tour offers insights into Vancouver’s history and culture while getting you close to marine wildlife.
What makes this tour special is its family-friendly nature, the chance to see seals up close, and the relaxed pace. The reviews, with a 5.0/5 rating from over 450 travelers, mention how informative and friendly the guides are. At only $73.42, it’s a budget-friendly way to enjoy Vancouver from the water without sacrificing quality or scenery.
Bottom line: Perfect for families or those wanting a fun, educational introduction to Vancouver’s coastal environment.
4. Vancouver: City and Seal Boat Tour
At number 4 on our list the Vancouver: City and Seal Boat Tour offers a 1.5-hour cruise around Vancouver’s English Bay coastline. This tour is notable for its short duration and affordability, priced at just $71 per person. You’ll see Lighthouse Park, the Seal Colony, and cruise underneath the Lions Gate Bridge.
Guests love the firsthand wildlife experience and the views of the Vancouver skyline from the water. The boat is described as comfortable, and the tour provides a good mix of scenery and wildlife spotting, making it a great option for those on a tight schedule or seeking a quick water-based escape.
Bottom line: An excellent, cost-effective way to see Vancouver’s harbor, wildlife, and iconic landmarks in under two hours.
5. Snorkel, Kayak, and Seal Adventure: Vancouver Boat Tour
This eco-friendly half-day adventure combines kayaking and snorkeling with Vancouver’s resident seals. Board a boat from Horseshoe Bay and head toward the Pam Rocks seal colony. The tour provides snorkel gear and wetsuits, allowing you to swim among seals, with the option to stay dry and just watch from the boat.
What makes this tour stand out is its focus on marine life and eco-activities. The reviews highlight how fun and memorable the experience was, with many mentioning the hot chocolate afterward as a nice touch. At $81.54, you get a full experience that balances adventure with relaxation.
Bottom line: Ideal for active travelers eager to combine wildlife viewing with kayaking and snorkeling.
6. NEW Vancouver Sightseeing Boat Cruise with Live Tour Guide
Launching in summer 2025, this double-decker catamaran cruise offers a 90-minute journey through Vancouver’s False Creek and Burrard Inlet. The reduced passenger number ensures everyone can sit outside and enjoy stunning views of the skyline and mountains. The route includes sights like Siwash Rock and English Bay, with live narration from the guide.
With a perfect 5-star rating from 212 reviews, travelers praise the informative, friendly service and the beautiful scenery. At $55.62, it’s a well-priced, relaxing way to see Vancouver’s waters amid comfortable surroundings.
Bottom line: Best suited for those wanting a peaceful, scenic cruise with engaging commentary and excellent value.
7. Vancouver Evening Dinner Cruise
For around $162, the Vancouver Evening Dinner Cruise offers a romantic way to experience the city’s waterfront. As the sun sets, enjoy live music and a Pacific Coast-inspired buffet, all while cruising past landmarks like Canada Place and the North Shore Mountains.
The reviews note that while the buffet is average, the atmosphere and views make up for it. This cruise is perfect for couples or those celebrating a special occasion, seeking an elegant evening afloat.
Bottom line: A great choice for a memorable, atmospheric dinner with scenic views and live entertainment.
8. Victoria & Butchart Gardens Tour with Gulf Islands Cruise Ferry
This 13-hour tour combines ferry rides, a visit to Butchart Gardens, and free time in Victoria. Starting with a ferry from Vancouver, the trip includes two hours at the gardens, time to explore Chinatown, and a photo stop at the Empress Hotel. The journey is packed with scenic ferry crossings over the Gulf Islands, offering wonderful views.
The tour is valued at $202.46, with a 4.5-star rating from over 540 reviews. Travelers love the engaging guides and the chance to see Vancouver Island’s highlights in one day. The long hours might not suit everyone, but if you’re eager to pack in a lot of scenery and gardens, it’s a top pick.
Bottom line: Ideal for those wanting a comprehensive day trip that combines natural beauty with urban exploration.
9. Vancouver: Indian Arm and Granite Falls Zodiac Boat Tour
This 3-hour zodiac trip takes you through Indian Arm fjord to see granite cliffs, waterfalls like Granite Falls, and learn about local geology. The boat’s speed and maneuverability make it suitable for seeing hidden coves and cascading waterfalls up close.
Rated 4.9/5 from 148 reviews, travelers rave about the spectacular scenery and informative guides. The Zodiac’s lively ride keeps things exciting, with the added benefit of mountain views and ocean air. It’s a perfect option for those wanting a more adventurous water trip.
Bottom line: Great for active travelers who want a fast-paced, scenic zodiac trip combining land and water views.
10. Sailing Experience on a 50′ sailboat
For about $111.19, this small-group sailing experience offers a relaxed way to see Vancouver from the water. You’ll sail aboard a Jeanneau sailboat, passing landmarks like Coal Harbour, Stanley Park, and the Bowen Islands. Snacks and beverages are included, making it a comfortable, intimate outing.
Reviews highlight how friendly and knowledgeable the crew are, with some calling it a highlight of their trip. The personalized experience and combination of sailing and sightseeing make this ideal for couples or small groups.
Bottom line: Perfect for anyone seeking a peaceful, interactive sailing adventure with great scenery and hosts.
11. Vancouver: Evening Cruise with Dinner Buffet
This 2.5–3.5 hour cruise at $158 offers a chance to see Vancouver’s skyline at sunset while enjoying a West Coast buffet dinner. The live music sets a relaxed mood, and the route includes sightings of Canada Place and Stanley Park.
Reviews suggest it’s a nice, romantic experience, though some note the buffet is average. It’s well suited for special occasions or date nights.
Bottom line: A solid pick for an elegant, scenic evening cruise with dining and entertainment.
12. Vancouver Brunch Cruise
For $136, this brunch cruise combines delicious food with spectacular views from the open top deck. You’ll see Indian Arm, mountain landscapes, and potentially bald eagles. It’s an ideal mid-morning outing that pairs local cuisine with nature.
Travelers praise the panoramic vistas and wildlife sightings. The brunch buffet plus the opportunity to take photos makes it a favorite for leisurely mornings.
Bottom line: Great for relaxed mornings with good food and scenic scenery, especially if you want an unobstructed view.
13. Vancouver: Harbor Sightseeing Cruise
This 1-hour cruise priced at $53 offers a quick, scenic escape to see Vancouver’s harbor, Stanley Park, and Lions Gate Bridge. It’s a straightforward way to get a water perspective of the city’s highlights, with onboard commentary enriching the experience.
Rated 4.6/5, reviews highlight how informative and comfortable the ride is, making it perfect for short sightseeing breaks or families.
Bottom line: An affordable, no-fuss cruise ideal for a quick overview of Vancouver’s waterfront.
14. Post-Cruise Shore Excursion: Capilano Suspension Bridge & Grouse Mountain
This 7-hour tour at $192.25 takes you over Lions’ Gate Bridge to visit the Capilano Suspension Bridge and the Grouse Mountain gondola. It’s designed for post-cruise travelers wanting to maximize their time in Vancouver’s North Shore. You’ll enjoy walking the world’s longest suspension bridge, learning about local wildlife, and browsing the Treetops and Cliffwalk.
The tour has a 5-star review from 75 travelers, many mentioning how informative and fun it is. It’s best suited for those comfortable with moderate walking and wanting a full day of sightseeing.
Bottom line: Ideal for active travelers eager to combine nature walks with mountain views during a port stop.
15. Vancouver: Harbour Sightseeing Cruise
Similar to the shorter harbor cruise, this 1-hour trip offers a relaxing way to see Vancouver’s waterfront, focusing on mountain vistas and city landmarks. The cruise features a fully licensed bar for those wanting a drink while enjoying the scenery. It’s rated 4.5/5 and offers a comfortable, informative experience.
Perfect for travelers with limited time but wanting a taste of Vancouver from the water.
Bottom line: A quick, enjoyable cruise for a water-based city intro.
16. Scuba Dive Boat Charter in Vancouver (Certified Divers Only!)
For certified divers, this 5-hour dive trip offers access to Vancouver’s best dive sites in Howe Sound. You’ll explore pinnacles, canyons, and sponge bioherms, with potential sightings of seals, octopus, and wolf eels. The boat is equipped with heated cabins and professional gear.
Rated 5.0/5 from 60 reviews, divers rave about the professional staff and diverse marine life. The tour is best suited for experienced divers seeking a true underwater adventure.
Bottom line: A top choice for certified divers wanting to explore Vancouver’s rich marine environment.
How to Choose Your Vancouver Boat Tour
Choosing the perfect boat experience depends on your interests, budget, and available time. For a full-day trip combining gardens and city exploration, the Victoria & Butchart Gardens Tour offers incredible value. If you prefer a shorter, scenic water ride, the Vancouver: City and Seal Boat Tour or the Harbor Sightseeing Cruise are excellent options. For those interested in wildlife, the Seal and Wildlife Tours or the zodiac adventure provide up-close encounters.
Budget-conscious travelers can opt for the Vancouver: Harbour Sightseeing Cruise or the Scenic Waterway Tour. If you’re seeking a romantic dinner with a view, the Vancouver Evening Dinner Cruise is a memorable choice. For adventurers and certified divers, the scuba dive offers a unique underwater perspective.
Book early for popular tours, especially the full-day trips and specialty experiences, to secure your spot on these highly-rated adventures.
Vancouver’s boat tours and cruises combine urban sights, marine wildlife, and spectacular scenery into unforgettable experiences. Whether you’re after a relaxing water cruise, an adventure on zodiac boats, or a luxurious dinner cruise, there’s an option suited for your style and schedule. Consider what you most want to see and do—then set sail for Vancouver’s waters for a trip you’ll remember long after your trip ends.