Vancouver Cruise Port Guide

Vancouver is one of the main embarkation and disembarkation points for Alaska cruises, and it’s worth spending some extra time here if your travel plans allow. The city has a little bit of everything: mountains, ocean views, great food, neighborhoods with plenty of character, and easy access to the outdoors.

If you’re arriving early for your cruise or staying a night after your trip, Vancouver is a major city where you can see quite a bit without having to travel very far.

Getting to Vancouver

• By Air: The Vancouver International Airport (YVR) is the main airport serving Vancouver and is located about 12 miles from downtown. The Canada Line connects the airport directly with downtown Vancouver, making it a convenient option for cruise passengers. The trip to downtown takes about 30 minutes.


• By Train: Vancouver is also accessible by train from several cities in Canada and the U.S. Amtrak’s Cascades service connects Vancouver with Seattle and other cities along the Pacific Northwest corridor.


• By Cruise Ship: Most cruise ships arrive at Canada Place, which is located right on Vancouver’s downtown waterfront. The cruise terminal is within walking distance of many downtown attractions, restaurants, hotels, and shopping areas.

Vancouver is easy to get around, especially if you’re staying downtown. Many attractions are walkable from Canada Place, including the waterfront, Gastown, shops, and restaurants. For destinations farther away, buses and the SkyTrain are convenient, while taxis and rideshares are readily available.

Here are some of our favorite places to visit in Vancouver:

Stanley Park

Stanley Park is one of Vancouver’s most famous attractions and a great place to get a taste of the city’s natural beauty without leaving town. The park covers more than 1,000 acres and has forested trails, beaches, gardens, totem poles, and the famous seawall. The seawall stretches about 10 kilometers around the park, and you can walk or rent a bike to explore it.

Granville Island

Granville Island is a fun place to spend a few hours, especially if you’re looking for food. The Public Market has plenty of vendors selling everything from fresh produce and baked goods to seafood and prepared meals. There are also small shops, galleries, restaurants, and plenty of places to sit and enjoy the waterfront. Granville Island has a much more local, neighborhood feel than some of Vancouver’s larger attractions.

Gastown

Located just a short walk from Canada Place, Gastown is one of Vancouver’s oldest neighborhoods. Its cobblestone streets, historic brick buildings, independent shops, and famous steam clock make it a popular place to wander around. It’s also a great area to stop for a meal or a drink.

Capilano Suspension Bridge Park

If you want to get out of downtown and into the rainforest, Capilano Suspension Bridge Park is a popular option. The main suspension bridge stretches 450 feet across the Capilano River, and the park also has elevated forest walkways and the Cliffwalk. It’s located across the water in North Vancouver, so be sure to allow enough time for transportation when visiting before a cruise.

Best Vancouver Excursions

Vancouver Half Day Whale Watching
Head out on the water from Vancouver and keep your eyes peeled for orcas, humpback whales, and other marine life.

Grouse Mountain Adventure Ticket
Trade the city streets for mountain views. Ride the gondola up Grouse Mountain for incredible views of Vancouver, plus plenty to explore once you’re at the top.

North Vancouver Food Tour & Scenic Harbour Ride
A little sightseeing, a little eating, and a boat ride in between. This tour is a fun way to get beyond downtown and explore North Vancouver’s Shipyards while sampling some local favorites.

Local Eats

Vancouver has an incredible food scene, and you don’t have to go far from Canada Place to find something good to eat.

• Japadog
  A Vancouver classic, Japadog combines Japanese-inspired toppings with an American-style hot dog. It might sound like an unusual combination, but it has become one of the city’s most recognizable quick and quirky bites. It’s a fun option if you’re looking for something casual and uniquely Vancouver.


• Granville Island Public Market
  If you can’t decide what you’re in the mood for, head to Granville Island. The market has dozens of vendors, so everyone in your group can find something they like. Pick up some fresh bread, seafood, pastries, cheese, or a prepared meal and wander around the island while you eat.


• Miku Vancouver
  Located near the waterfront, Miku is known for its Aburi-style sushi, where the tops of the fish are lightly flame-seared. It’s a good choice if you want a nicer meal before or after your cruise, especially if you’re a fan of sushi and seafood.

Final Thoughts

Vancouver is much more than just a place to get on or off your Alaska cruise. The city makes it easy to combine a cruise vacation with a few days of sightseeing, good food, and time outdoors. Whether you spend your time exploring Stanley Park, wandering through Gastown, eating your way through Granville Island, or heading across the water to the North Shore, there’s plenty to keep you busy before or after your cruise.

View all our Vancouver tours here!