Alaska’s Glacial Grandeur (May – September)

Immerse yourself in Alaska’s untouched wilderness. Witness towering glaciers like Hubbard Glacier calving into the sea and explore the dramatic beauty of the Inside Passage. This destination is perfect for nature enthusiasts and adventure seekers.

Mexican Riviera Escape (February – December)

Trade the chill for sunshine! Explore the vibrant culture and stunning beaches of Puerto Vallarta, Cabo San Lucas, or Mazatlán. Soak up the sun, indulge in delicious Mexican food, and experience the warmth of Mexican hospitality.

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Hawaiian Island Serenity (Mid-April – Mid-June; September – Mid-December)

Escape to paradise! Cruise to Oahu, Maui, Kauai, or the Big Island and discover lush rainforests, pristine beaches, and rich Hawaiian culture. Relax on the shore, explore volcanoes, and embrace the spirit of Aloha.

San Juan Islands’ Tranquility (May – September)

Find peace in the San Juan Islands, a sanctuary of natural beauty and diverse marine life. Escape the city’s hustle and bustle and explore these charming islands, a short sail away from Vancouver.

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California Coastline Adventure (September)

Explore the iconic Californian coastline! Visit the bustling cityscapes of San Francisco or discover the coastal charm of Santa Barbara and San Diego. Cruise along the Pacific Ocean and experience breathtaking natural beauty alongside vibrant cities.

Proof of Citizenship: Carry proof of citizenship for cruises traveling to US destinations, as required by US law.

Passport: While not always required for closed-loop cruises (returning to the departure port), it’s highly recommended to carry a valid passport for emergencies and unexpected travel changes. Always check with your cruise line for specific requirements.

Travel Insurance: Consider travel insurance to protect yourself from trip cancellations, medical emergencies, or lost luggage.

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Vancouver might not be the most budget-friendly city, but its convenience and beauty make it a worthwhile starting point for your cruise. Vancouver International Airport (YVR) is conveniently close to the cruise terminal (just 15 kilometers or 9 miles away). This translates to less travel time and more relaxation on board. Here’s a breakdown of transportation options to help you choose the perfect fit:

Private Transfer (Prices Vary)

Treat yourself to VIP treatment! Relax in a luxurious SUV as your professional chauffeur whisks you directly to the cruise terminal in just 25 minutes. This is ideal for a special occasion or if you have limited mobility. While the most affordable option we found starts at $85.90 CAD (Transferoo – Economy), which works out to $28.63 CAD per person for 3 travelers, prices can vary depending on the number of passengers, luggage, and desired level of service. Here’s a breakdown of some options we found:

Luxury SUVs (Up to 3 Passengers): Prices range from $225.80 CAD (Transferoo – First Class SUV) to $239.25 CAD (Viator – Luxury SUV). This translates to around $75.27 CAD to $79.75 CAD per person.

Minibus (Up to 11 Passengers): Prices range from $163.92 CAD (Viator – Minibus) to $338.60 CAD (Transferoo – Minibus).

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Public Transit ($4.55 CAD before 6:30 PM, $9.55 CAD after)

This is the most economical option, costing just $4.55 CAD (adult, one-way) for a stress-free journey. Hop on the Canada Line SkyTrain from Level 3 at YVR and head straight to Waterfront Station, a short five-minute walk from the cruise terminal. Expect the total trip time to be around 45 minutes. Keep in mind that after 6:30 PM in 2024, a new $5.00 YVR AddFare applies, bringing the total cost to $9.55 CAD.

Taxis (Flat Fare $41.00 CAD)

Taxis offer a direct and convenient option, taking you straight to the Vancouver Cruise Terminal (Zone 9). Be prepared for a potential wait of 15-20 minutes at the taxi rank, especially during peak season, the fare is a flat fee of $41.00 CAD (approximately 40 minutes including wait time). For a visual reference of taxi zones and fares, refer to the included taxi fare map.

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Both taxis and ride-sharing services pick up passengers right outside the international arrivals terminal.

Ride-sharing Apps (Prices Vary)

Ride-sharing apps like Uber, Lyft, and KABU offer a convenient alternative to taxis, with the potential for cheaper fares (around $32.00 CAD), particularly during off-peak hours. These services are officially authorized at Vancouver International Airport (YVR) for passenger pick-up and drop-off. However, expect surge pricing to push fares up to $50.00 CAD during peak times. While Uber, Lyft, and KABU are the authorized options at YVR, other ride-sharing apps operate in Vancouver, including Blacklane (luxury vehicles) and Talixo (various sizes, up to 7 passengers). Remember, prices can vary depending on demand, so check the app for current fares.

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Car Rental (Prices Vary)

For ultimate flexibility, consider renting a car. Prices vary depending on the car type and rental duration, but basic vehicles can be found for as low as $20.00 a day. This option allows you to explore Vancouver attractions like Grouse Mountain, Stanley Park, and Capilano Suspension Bridge before setting sail. Just be aware of parking costs at the cruise terminal. You can check out rental car websites like Kayak and Priceline for deals.

Some cruise lines operate their own shuttle service, but these typically require booking in advance and incur a fee. Here are some examples:

• Princess Cruises: Princess offers a shuttle service that picks you up from the airport and takes you directly to your ship, even if you didn’t book your airfare through them. For details and booking information, contact Princess Cruises directly or visit their Cruise Personalizer®.
• Holland America Line: Holland America Line also offers an airport transfer service. However, booking for this service is only available after you’ve booked your cruise with them. For more information on booking an airport transfer with Holland America Line, visit their pre-cruise travel page.
• Disney Cruise Line (Vancouver Ground Transfers): Disney Cruise Line offers shared motor coach transfers from YVR to the Port of Vancouver for guests who booked their flights independently. Please note: Transfers to hotels are only available for guests who purchase pre- or post-cruise nights through Disney Cruise Line. Pricing varies depending on the combination of pre- and post-cruise nights and the chosen hotel. For full details and booking information, visit the Disney Cruise Line website or contact them directly.

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Shared Shuttles

Services like Ace Charters offer shuttle services from Vancouver Airport hotels to the cruise terminal, making them ideal for those planning an overnight stay before their cruise. Here’s a breakdown of Ace Charter’s pricing for their Cruise Ship Transfer service:

• Adult: CAD $22
• Senior (65+): CAD $20
• Child (5-12 years): CAD $18
• Child (4 years old or younger): Free

Additional Options:

Ace Charters also offers private shuttle transfers from YVR to Canada Place cruise terminal in various vehicle sizes to accommodate your group. Prices are per vehicle and start at:

• Mercedes Benz Sprinter (11 passengers): CAD $210.00
• Ford Transit (14 passengers): CAD $210.00
• Chevy Turtle Top (21 passengers): CAD $420.00
• MCI Coach (36 passengers): CAD $630.00

For more information on private transfers or other services, please visit the Ace Charters website or contact them directly.

Stanley Park

Escape the urban buzz and find tranquility in Stanley Park, a short distance away. Explore its lush trails, towering cedars, and stunning waterfront views.

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Gastown

Immerse yourself in Vancouver’s historic charm with a visit to Gastown. Explore its cobblestone streets, admire Victorian architecture, and discover unique shops and trendy restaurants, all easily accessible from the port.

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Canada Place

Right at the terminal, Canada Place offers a trifecta of experiences. Take in stunning panoramic views from the top level, catch a captivating IMAX movie, or experience the thrill of FlyOver Canada, a flight simulation ride that soars you over iconic Canadian landmarks. This attraction is suitable for all ages and is sure to ignite your sense of adventure.

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By adding pre-cruise activities to your itinerary, you can transform your Vancouver trip from a simple cruise departure point into an unforgettable experience packed with culture, adventure, and relaxation.

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Vancouver Lookout

Enjoy breathtaking 360-degree city views from the Vancouver Lookout, located just a short walk away. See the bustling harbor below, and the majestic mountains in the distance. Also, get a taste of Vancouver’s urban landscape.

Vancouver Art Gallery

Immerse yourself in art at the Vancouver Art Gallery, one of North America’s most respected institutions. Located conveniently near the port, it houses a vast collection of artwork spanning centuries and cultures.

Humpback Whales (April to November, Peak in August)

Witness these acrobatic giants gracefully breaching the surface near Vancouver Island. Peak season arrives in August when locals jokingly call it “humpback soup” due to the high concentration of whales.

Orcas

• Resident Orcas (Year-round): Known for their distinctive calls and salmon-eating habits, these orcas can be seen throughout the year.
• Transient Orcas (May to September): Silent hunters that travel in larger groups, transient orcas are more likely to be spotted between May and September.
• Offshore Orcas (Rare Sight): These elusive orcas are rare, but a lucky encounter is an unforgettable experience.

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Black Bears (Year-round, with sightings more likely in specific areas)

Vancouver Island boasts some of the world’s largest black bears. Be aware that sightings are not common and tend to occur in designated areas during land excursions.

Sea Otters (Year-round)

These playful creatures frolic in the cool waters around Vancouver Island and in the Strait of Georgia throughout the year.

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Bald Eagles (mid-December – mid-January)

Spot these majestic birds surveying the landscape from their treetop perches. Look for them in Stanley Park and Boundary Bay Regional Park.

Dolphins & Porpoises (Year-round)

Keep an eye out for playful Pacific white-sided dolphins and curious Dall’s porpoises throughout your journey.

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Sea Lions (Year-round, with high-spawning activity mid-March)

You might spot sea lions basking on the rocky shores or near the Vancouver Rowing Club.