Seeing Vancouver from the water gives you a view you can’t get on land: the downtown skyline, Stanley Park, the beaches and the North Shore mountains in one sweep. If you’re comparing Vancouver yacht tours, a few questions will narrow it down fast. Which route do you want? How long do you want to be out? How many people are coming? What’s your budget?
We run private yacht charters out of Granville Island, so here’s how our routes, pricing and booking work.
Our most popular Vancouver yacht tour routes
False Creek and English Bay
This is the easiest route to start with. We head out through False Creek, past Science World, then into English Bay with the city skyline stretching along the shoreline. It suits anyone who wants to see the waterfront without committing to a full day, and it’s a great option for skyline photos or simply relaxing on the water.
Harbour & City Highlights Cruise
This is our classic Vancouver sightseeing boat tour. On our Harbour & City Highlights Cruise, we leave Granville Island and pass Stanley Park, the Lions Gate Bridge, Coal Harbour and Canada Place, where the Alaska cruise ships dock. It’s the favourite for first-time visitors, families, and locals showing friends around, because the downtown core looks completely different with the North Shore mountains behind it. Plan on three hours.
Sunset & BBQ Dinner Cruise
If you’d rather slow down in the evening, this is the one. Our Sunset & BBQ Dinner Cruise is timed for golden hour, with the skyline lighting up as you cruise the waterfront. The boat has a full kitchen with a BBQ, so you can cook onboard, and we provide the ice, water and sodas. It works well for couples, small groups and celebrations.
Bowen Island and Indian Arm
If you want more time on the water, head beyond the main harbour. Our destination trips are made for that:
- Bowen Island: Our Bowen Island yacht tour is an easy way to see the island and its waterfront village.
- Indian Arm: A quiet stretch of coastline with striking scenery, Indian Arm is ideal if you’d rather be surrounded by nature than the city skyline.
Vancouver yacht tour prices
Our private charter is $369 per hour for the whole boat. That includes a licensed captain and space for up to eight guests.
| Charter length | Boat total | Per person (8 guests) |
|---|---|---|
| 1 hour | $369 | about $46 |
| 3 hours | $1,107 | about $138 |
| 4 hours | $1,476 | about $185 |
The price covers fuel, ice, bottled water, sugar-free sodas, and cups, plates and utensils. Because it’s a private charter, the whole yacht is yours, unlike a ticketed cruise where you share with strangers.
Food and drinks are easy. Bring your own at no extra charge, or we can pick up your order from the BC Liquor Store and Granville Island Market before you board.
How to choose the best Vancouver yacht tour for your group
- First-time visitors: Choose the Harbour & City Highlights the cruise to see the main waterfront attractions in one trip.
- Couples: The sunset cruise is a relaxed dinner on the water.
- Families and friends: Tell us your group’s ages and needs, and we’ll plan around them.
- Nature lovers: Bowen Island and Indian Arm.
- Special occasions: Birthdays, anniversaries, proposals and corporate outings all work well on a private charter. See our private charters and celebrations for ideas.
Tips before you book
- Dress in layers. Vancouver weather can change quickly, and it’s usually cooler on the water than on land.
- Wear soft-soled shoes. They grip the deck, and high heels aren’t allowed onboard.
- Arrive early. We leave from Granville Island Public Market, near the Aquabus dock. Parking is easy, and there’s time to grab a coffee. Your confirmation email lists the exact meeting spot.
- Book ahead for popular times. Sunset departures, holidays and weekend evenings fill up fast. A $300 deposit holds your date. If your plans change, you get a full refund when you cancel at least 48 hours before departure.
- Last-minute? If the calendar is open, we can take bookings as little as two hours before departure.
Book your Vancouver boat tour
Ready to pick a route? Tell us your date and where you’d like to go, and we’ll help you plan it. You can also call us at 604-729-1360.
Frequently asked questions
What’s the best way to see Vancouver from the water?
A private harbour cruise is one of the best ways to see Stanley Park, Coal Harbour and the Lions Gate Bridge.
How much does a private yacht tour in Vancouver cost?
Our private charters start at $369 per hour for the whole boat for up to eight guests.
How long are Vancouver boat tours?
The Harbour & City Highlights Cruise runs three hours. Our four-hour Signature Charter adds a Bowen Island excursion. Other destination trips depend on the route.
Where do your tours depart from?
Granville Island Public Market, near the Aquabus dock. Your confirmation email has the exact meeting point.
Can I book a private sunset cruise?
Yes. Every charter is private, including the Sunset & BBQ Dinner Cruise.
Are private yacht tours family-friendly?
Yes. Life jackets are onboard in kids’ and adult sizes, and there’s a washroom on the boat. When you book, tell us your group size and any needs for children.
Can we bring our own food and drinks?
Yes, at no extra charge. There’s a full kitchen with a BBQ, fridge and microwave, and a large cooler for your use.
Can I take a private charter to Bowen Island?
Yes. Our four-hour Signature Charter includes an excursion to Bowen Island, and we also offer longer Bowen Island trips.