lake minnewanka cruise pet friendly

Is The Lake Minnewanka Cruise Worth It?

Lake Minnewanka is one of the most beautiful lakes in all of Banff . Its beauty captures the hearts of nearly every visitor to the park. Even after seeing the lake numerous times throughout every month of the year, it never gets old.

While enjoying the lake from its shores is satisfying enough, there’s another way to experience this body of water. Enjoying a Lake Minnewanka cruise is one of the best ways to spend a summer day. But what can you expect from your time on the water, how much is the tour, and when is the best time to visit? Here’s our ultimate Lake Minnewanka cruise review.

About Lake Minnewanka

Lake Minnewanka is a large glacial lake just 5km from Downtown Banff. It’s one of the largest lakes in the Canadian Rockies at 21 kilometers and a whopping 142 meters deep. It’s an incredibly popular destination in Banff year-round. In the summer, the large lakes see canoers, boaters, bikers, and hikers – as well as visitors who just want to relax in a beautiful setting. In the winter, visitors flock here to ice skate, snowshoe, and marvel at the towering peaks nearby, like Mount Almyer and Mount Inglismaldie.

For generations, people have set up camps and engaged in hunting activities along the historic shores of Lake Minnewanka. The Stoney Nakoda First Nations , the indigenous people of the area, referred to it as Minn-waki (Lake of the Spirits), attributing reverence and fear to the lake’s resident spirits. Early European settlers would later designate it as Devil’s Lake.

Lake Minnewanka is one of our favorite places to relax in Banff in the summer. We have visited the lake what feels like hundreds of times with family and friends, as it’s a great spot to sightsee. The forests around Lake Minnewanka are teeming with wildlife, including mule deer, bears, wolves, elk, bighorn sheep, and an abundant birdlife population.

When Does the Lake Minnewanka Cruise Run?

In 2024, Lake Minnewanka Cruises will run every day between May 10 – October 14 (weather dependent).

Where Do the Cruises Depart From?

Lake Minnewanka cruises depart from the boat dock, which is about a 10-minute walk from the parking area. It’s recommended to get to the boat dock 15 minutes before your cruise departs so that you can check in and pick a seat. Cruises leave on time with or without you. If you show up late and have to rebook, there may be a $25 rebooking fee.

Our Review of the Lake Minnewanka Cruise

One of the best things to do in Banff in the summer is enjoy the Lake Minnewanka Cruise . This hour-long panoramic cruise cruises Lake Minnewanka. The longer cruises head to Devil’s Gap at the end of Lake Minnewanka and then makes a return.

What is Devil’s Gap? This unique natural feature looks out to the east and the plains of Alberta while enveloped in a mountain amphitheater.

Envision an amphitheater embraced by towering mountains. In the distant east, verdant prairie land peeks through, providing a captivating backdrop. If you are lucky, you can witness the majestic bald eagles nesting or see an occasional bear ascending the slopes of Saddle’s Peak.

Within Devil’s Gap lies a glacial path meandering through the eastern extremity of Lake Minnewanka, near Ghost Lakes near Cochrane. Here is also the lake’s deepest point, plunging 152 meters beneath the surface. To explore this hidden gem on foot, one must embark on a 30-kilometer journey into the remote Canadian Rockies. Though on a Lake Minnewanka Cruise, this can be reached in just 30 minutes, which alone, we think just this makes the Lake Minnewanka cruise well worth it. When you reach Devil’s Gap, the captain will turn off the engine and ask for a moment of silence so that cruisers can appreciate the area’s beauty.

While Devil’s Gap is certainly a highlight of the entire cruise, the captain will point out other points of interest and landmarks along the route. There are plenty of photo ops as you pass Mount Girouard and Mount Peechee.

All these sights are combined with insights into the region’s history to enhance the overall experience. Travelers will learn about interesting tidbits, such as how the Nakoda people historically utilized Devil’s Gap as an entry point into the Rockies, a route shared with early European explorers. For over 13,000 years, Devil’s Gap has served as a vital corridor for both human and wildlife movement.

Types of Cruises Offered

Lake Minnewanka Classic Cruise

This is the most standard cruise and includes a short visit Devil’s Gap. It is one hour long. The classic cruise runs from May 10 – October 14, 2024 .

• May 10 – June 13: 10 AM – 6 PM
• June 14 – September 2: 9 AM – 7 PM
• September 3 – September 29: 10 AM – 6 PM
• September 30 – October 14: 10 AM – 5 PM

Lake Minnewanka Premium Cruise

The premium cruise runs May 24 – September 29, 2024 and includes a longer stop to view Devil’s Gap. This cruise is 1.5 hours long and includes a taste of tasty Pine Tea. Daily departures are at 10:30 AM.

Beer Voyage Cruise

From May 24 – September 29, 2024 beer lovers can enjoy the Lake Minnewanka Beer Voyage Cruise in the summer. This 90-minute cruise runs daily at 5pm and allows guests to enjoy local craft brews while enjoying the views. Guests of 2 are given 4 beers total for the tasting, and you can bring home any unopened cans you don’t consume. If this will affect your driving to and from Lake Minnewanka, consider taking public transit to Lake Minnewanka. This is an 18+ only cruise.

Family Lake Minnewanka Cruise

If visiting Banff with kids , families can enjoy a 1-hour cruise on Lake Minnewanka that is specially made for kids 12 and under. This cruise runs from June 29 – September 2, 2024 and includes a kids journal book, a treat for kids at the docks, and one free child is included for each full paying adult. There are two daily departure, one at 12:40 PM and one at 3:20 PM.

Who Runs the Lake Minnewanka Cruise?

There is only one company that operates the cruises on Lake Minnewanka, and that is Pursuit. They are the same company that operates popular Banff attractions like the Banff Gondola , Athabasca Glacier Experience, and the Jasper Skywalk . You can book directly with Pursuit, or book on Viator.

Amenities Available on the Cruise

Surprisingly there’s not much available on the actual boat. You can expect seats with room enough for plenty of people. There are large windows to take in the surroundings from, and and outdoor space to get closer to nature. There are no bathrooms on the boats, so please do your business beforehand, or it will be a very long boat ride. There are public restrooms available near the Lake Minnewanka parking area.

How Long is the Lake Minnewanka Cruise?

Cruises last between 1 hour and 1.5 hours depending on which cruise package you purchase. We recommend booking the 1.5 hour Premium Cruise or Beer Voyage Cruise.

How Much is the Lake Minnewanka Cruise?

Advanced Purchase Pricing:

• Classic One-Hour Cruise: $65.00 / adult, $42.25 / child
• Premium Cruise (1.5 hours) : $74.00 / adult $48.10 / child
• Beer Voyage Cruise (1.5 hours): $91.00 / adult
• Age 5 & Under – Free
• Pursuit Pass Banff Gondola + Lake Minnewanka Cruise : $110.00/ adult $71.50 / child.
• Pursuit Pass Rockies Value (Package Includes Banff Gondola (anytime) Lake Minnewanka Cruise (after 3:30 pm) Columbia Icefield Adventure – Including Skywalk (after 3:30 pm), Maligne Lake Cruise in Jasper (after 3:30 pm) Golden Skybridge in Golden (after 3:30 pm). $219.00 / adult and $142.35 / child

Book Online in Advance

Alberta residents save up to 20%

You can buy individual tickets for the Lake Minnewanka cruise, but for the best deal, consider purchasing the Banff Jasper Collective’s Banff Value, which includes the Banff Gondola, Columbia Icefield Adventure – Including the Skywalk, Maligne Lake Cruise in Jasper , and the Golden Skybridge in Golden .

Do You Have to Book in Advance?

No you do not have to book in advance, though cruises do sell out during periods of high demand. You also save a bit of cash by booking in advance.

When is the Best time to Enjoy the Lake Minnewanka Cruise?

Lake Minnewanka Cruises only run during the summer season. For the best weather, we recommend July and August , and for the calmest waters, we recommend booking either an early morning cruise or an evening cruise.

What to Wear and Bring on Board

My number one tip is to go to the bathroom before you board the cruise, especially if you are on the beer cruise. We were given four large beers on our journey, and by the time our 1.5-hour cruise had finished, I was sprinting to the toilets.

It’s also recommended to bring your camera and a windbreaker jacket. Even in the dead of summer, it gets cool out on the water.

Hiking Trails, Picnic Spots, and Other Recreational Activities Nearby

Hiking Opportunities:

There are several great Banff hikes around Lake Minnewanka. You can take simple strolls along the lake, summit nearby Mt. Alymer (scramble), head up the Mt. Alymer Lookout, or make a multiday backpacking trip out of it.

One of our favorite hikes in the area is C-Level Cirque . Which is a nice challenge that provides astounding views of Lake Minnewanka and the Bow Valley.

Lake Minnewanka Hikes

• Stewart Canyon Trail
• Lake Minnewanka Trail
• Alymer Lookout Trail
• C Level Cirque

Sightseeing Opportunities

If you’re already going to Lake Minnewanka, you can’t miss a stop at Two Jack Lake , Johnson Lake , and Cascade Ponds . All provide stellar views of Mount Rundle and Cascade Mountain . If you have a kayak or stand-up paddleboard, we highly recommend getting out on the water at any of these bodies of water.

If you’re into ghost towns, there’s one nearby! Bankhead is a tiny coal mining town that thrived in Banff National Park in the early 1900s. The town’s coal mine was situated under Cascade Mountain, which harbored superior-quality anthracite coal reserves.

Lake Minnewanka is a fantastic place to relax and enjoy a picnic with friends. There are plenty of places to lounge and picnic benches to spread out on. PLEASE remember to pack out what you pack in. There are PLENTY of bear-safe trash bins around Lake Minnewanka, yet every time we visit Lake Minnewanka in the summer, there is trash left about by careless tourists. Remember you are in a national park, and no one is there to pick up after you. Do not feed wildlife.

Other Boating Opportunities

There are a wide range of boating options on Lake Minnewanka, including canoes, motorboats, kayaks, or even stand-up paddleboards. The boat dock is also managed by Pursuit.

Lake Minnewanka Boats and Canoe Costs

• Location : Pursuit Collection Lake Minnewanka Boat Dock
• Canoe Cost : $85 first hour/$42.50, additional hours
• Kayak Cost : $45 for first hours/$22.50 additional hours
• Double Kayak Cost : $85 for the first hour/$42.50 additional hours
• Motor Boat Cost : $155 first hour/$77.50 additional hours/Half Day (4 hours) $355
• Season: June to October

* Rentals are available on-site at the Lake Minnewanka boathouse on a first-come, first-served basis. It’s best to arrive first thing in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid waiting.

Is the Lake Minnewanka Cruise Worth It?

We have visited Lake Minnewanka hundreds of times, but last summer was the first month we finally set sail on the cruise. We enjoyed the Beer Voyage cruise on a beautiful summer evening and loved every second of our time. I even brought my dad, and as a beer lover he enjoyed drinking fresh brews while taking in the views. However, he did say that the Banff Gondola was his favorite thing to do in Banff (the gondola is always a hit with everyone). So if you’re choosing between only a few activities, read about Banff’s gondolas.

Although we have ice skated , canoed, and hiked around Lake Minnewanka, nothing compares to the views you get from the water. If your budget allows, we highly recommend booking a Lake Minnewanka Cruise!

I Can Only Choose One Cruise – Lake Minnewanka or Maligne Lake?

Many visitors to the Rockies can only choose so many paid experiences, as a trip to Banff can get very expensive. The two cruise experiences are on Maligne Lake in Jasper and Lake Minnewanka in Banff. While both are fantastic, we would tell any visitor who can only choose one to consider the Maligne Lake cruise to Spirit Island over the cruise on Lake Minnewanka. We detail why below.

Getting To Lake Minnewanka

By Car: Getting to Lake Minnewanka by car is easy peasy. If you are traveling from Calgary to Banff, you’ll want to get off on the exit “Banff/Lake Minnewanka Loop.” This is right off Highway 1 after you pass the park gates. The turn will be on your right-hand side if coming from Canmore.

You’ll see signs for Cascade Pond/Two Jack Lake. Once you get onto the Lake Minnewanka Scenic Route Drive all you have to do is keep driving until you reach Lake Minnewanka. You’ll pass a turn-off for Johnson Lake on the way, as well as Two Jack Lake Campground and Two Jack Lake.

During the winter, the western part of the road is closed as it’s a wildlife corridor. You’ll only be able to drive the eastern section of the road in the winter. In the summer, the full loop is open to vehicles and bikers. If driving, please watch out for cyclists on the road. It’s a very popular road to cycle, and cyclist deserve their space on the road.

By Public Transport: It is possible to get to Lake Minnewanka by public transport in the summer months. Route 6 leaves downtown Banff every 30 minutes and takes approximately 25 minutes to reach the lake. Show your Lake Minnewanka Cruise tour ticket to the Route 6 bus and get a FREE return ride on the day of your cruise.

This service operates 7 days a week, and the first bus departs at 8AM each morning. Stops along the way include Cascade Ponds, Johnson Lake, Two Jack Lakeside Campground, Two Jack Main Campground, Two Jack Day Use Area, Lake Minnewanka Lookout, and finally, Lake Minnewanka. Service typically starts in late May and runs until late September and costs $2 for adults and $1 for Seniors/Youth. This is a great way to get to Lake Minnewanka if you visit Banff without a vehicle .

By Bike: If you don’t have a car and don’t want to take the bus, a bike is one of the best ways to get to Lake Minnewanka. The Lake Minnewanka Loop Rd is a great road to cycle, and I usually cycle this road from Canmore a few times every summer.

From Banff, the route takes you on the Legacy Trail and passes Cascade Ponds, Two Jack Lake, and finally, Lake Minnewanka. I like to take the first right after Cascade Ponds and go counterclockwise on the road. It’s a bit of a climb to Two Jack, but it’s all downhill and super cruisy and fun once you get past Two Jack. The full Lake Minnewanka Scenic Dr is approximately 13 km.

Accessibility and Parking at Lake Minnewanka

There are two large lots for parking at Lake Minnewanka, including a large lot for trucks with boat trailers. On an average day, it’s not too difficult to get parking, but the parking lot quickly fills up during peak times in the summer. The peak times are weekends from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. You can still visit during these times, but parking will be difficult.

If you don’t want to deal with parking you can park at the Minnewanka Park & Ride or the Banff Train Station and hop on the Roam Transit (route 6), which will take you to the lake. The bus route also stops at Two Jack Lake, Johnson Lake , and Cascade Ponds . Rides are $2 for adults and $1 for children. The bus only operates in the summer from May 19th to September 15th (season dependent).

Do You Need a Parks Pass to Visit Lake Minnewanka?

Yes, all visitors need a Parks Pass to recreate in Banff National Park, and Lake Minnewanka is located in Banff National Park. Park fees are as follows:

Parks Canada Day Pass Rates

A  Parks Canada Discovery Pass grants you entrance to all Parks Canada destinations for a year. For many visitors, purchasing an annual pass makes more sense, as an adult’s day pass is $11.00 per day. The pass also grants access to historic sites such as Cave & Basin along with any other national park in the country.

Parks Canada Discovery Pass Fees

Our ultimate guide to purchasing a Canadian Parks Pass

Recommended Hotels Nearby

The Rimrock

Is a super great pet-friendly option in Banff. It’s close to Sulphur Mountain and the Banff Hot Springs. It’s one of the most popular places to stay in Banff, so book it in advance.

Check Rates

The Banff Springs

Stay in a literal castle in Banff! You can’t get more iconic than the Banff Springs. It’s beautiful year round!

Elk & Avenue

Elk & Avenue is right on Banff Avenue. It has a fantastic location and offers a more affordable place to stay with underground parking!

The Moose Hotel

Our favorite hotel on Banff Avenue, with an excellent location, and super comfortable rooms!

Plan Your Trip to the Canadian Rockies

• Tours (New in 2024): The Banff Blog is partnering with one of the leading tour companies in Western Canada so readers can experience the magic of the Rockies with other travelers – without having to think about a thing. See all our 2024 tour offerings here!
• Hotels in the Rockies: There are many places to stay, from luxury hotels to wilderness cabins. See all our favorites here.
• Get to Banff or Canmore Without a Car : The Banff Airporter provides fantastic service connecting you from the Calgary International Airport (YYC) to Banff or Canmore.
• Get Around : We suggest renting a car to get around. You can search for rental cars on Rentalcars.com. Or embark on an epic campervan trip. We like to compare prices on Motorhome Republic and Outdoorsy .
• Cheaper Airfare: We also use Going to watch for cheap airfare deals!
• Hop On, Hop Off : This tour is taking Banff by storm. It’s exactly what it sounds like, hop on and off a bus bound for all the best attractions at your own pace!

About Natasha

Natasha calls Canmore, Alberta home. After traveling across seven continents and 90 countries with Cameron, she settled down in the stunning Canadian Rockies. She loves to help others travel and make their planning easier. She is a winter enthusiast and loves to snowboard, ice skate, and snowshoe and enjoy all the fantastic summer opportunities in Banff like hiking, scrambling, and biking. You can find her in the mountains or enjoying a coffee by the river. Learn more on the about us page! If you have found the content on this site helpful to your trip planning please consider supporting The Banff Blog. You can say thanks directly by buying us a coffee . All support is much appreciated!

Leave a Comment Cancel reply

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Related Posts

Takakkaw Falls in Yoho • A Guide to Visiting

How To Visit Surprise Corner Viewpoint in Banff

Myra Canyon Trestles (Kelowna): All You NEED To Know Before Visiting

Social Media Links

Go cruising, lake minnewanka boat cruise, adventure details, book your adventure, classic lake cruise, beer voyage.

For the best experience, leave the drive to us. Show your tour ticket to the Route 6 bus driver of the Bow Valley's Roam Public Transit service from Downtown Banff to Lake Minnewanka and get a FREE RETURN RIDE. Visit Roam Transit to see the bus schedule.

The Classic Lake Cruise departs daily on the hour from 10am - 6pm with additional departures on the half hour during peak summer. This tour departs from mid May until mid October.

The Beer Voyage departs at 5pm daily from mid May to late September & requires a minimum 2 guests per booking.

What is the Lake Minnewanka Cruise?

How long are the tours, what time do the tours depart, how do i get to lake minnewanka, is the lake minnewanka cruise pet friendly, can i bring my stroller on board, how many people can fit on the boat cruise, what other amenities / facilities are available at lake minnewanka, can i swim in the lake, can i fish on lake minnewanka, do i need to make a reservation for the boat cruise, will we get wet, what is the cancellation policy, you might also like..., hoodoo float trip, banff explorer, ultimate explorer package, big canoe tours.

Lake Minnewanka Cruise

• See all photos

Similar Experiences

Most Recent: Reviews ordered by most recent publish date in descending order.

Detailed Reviews: Reviews ordered by recency and descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as waiting time, length of visit, general tips, and location information.

Lake Minnewanka Cruise - All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go (2024)

Lake Minnewanka Cruise

• See all photos

Similar Experiences

Most Recent: Reviews ordered by most recent publish date in descending order.

Detailed Reviews: Reviews ordered by recency and descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as waiting time, length of visit, general tips, and location information.

Lake Minnewanka Cruise - All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go (2024) - Tripadvisor

For inquiries or to book by phone, call

1.866.474.4766

• Location & Hours
• Premium Cruise
• Junior Explorer Cruise
• Beer Voyage

Lake Minnewanka Cruise continues a tradition of connection in one of Banff’s most iconic locations. From human history that dates back over 10,000 years to the boat tours that have thrilled visitors for over a century, the timeless beauty of Lake Minnewanka has inspired wonder for countless generations. Under the lead of our knowledgeable captains, we share the long-cherished Minnewanka experience with our guests through history, geology, wildlife information and other fascinating stories.

We know connection takes many forms, which is why we offer a range of unique cruises — along with guided fishing trips and rentals — to experience Lake Minnewanka your way. No matter how you choose to take in the beauty of Minnewanka, our goal is to share all that is special about this incredible place with you.

Cruise Options

2024 Dates: May 10 – October 14, 2024

Our most popular cruise on the lake invites you to discover the story of Minnewanka Landing as you tour the beautiful valley landscape of Canada’s oldest National Park.

• 1-hour approx. cruise on Lake Minnewanka
• Explore Banff from a new perspective
• Engaging interpretive commentary

2024 Dates: May 24 – September 29, 2024

Tour the mighty Minnewanka while enjoying a selection of local craft beer with friends and family. Plus, you’ll receive a special take-home gift. Cold craft beer, lake-top adventure and stunning mountain views — it’s a winning combination.

• 1.5-hour cruise with selection of craft beer
• Special themed commentary
• Perfect après adventure cruise
• Free special take-home gift
• 18+ only cruise

Experience more of Lake Minnewanka. With extended time on the Rockies’ largest lake, you’ll enjoy more opportunities to see wildlife and beautiful vistas while taking in engaging stories from our guide and captain.

• 1.5 hour extended cruise on Lake Minnewanka
• VIP greeting and check in by your guide
• Stop on the lake to view Devil's Gap
• Sample delicious local pine tea

2024 Dates: June 29 – September 2, 2024

Calling all junior adventurers! This cruise is specially made for children under 12 and their families. The experience includes a treasure hunt, games, cool treats and more!

• 1-hour approx. cruise on Lake Minnewanka specially made for kids 12 and under
• Kids journal book
• Cool treat for kids at the docks
• One free child (6-15 years) for each full paying adult

1.866.606.6700   |  CONTACT US

Stay connected

Lake Minnewanka Cruise – What To Expect

I love the water colors of the lakes in Banff National Park and couldn’t wait to get out on the water on a Lake Minnewanka Cruise. We were one of the first cruises of the day at 10am which meant we pulled right in and parked without a problem.

We headed down to the dock about 9:30 – the time they recommend you get there. With a bathroom stop by the parking lot before heading all the way down to the dock. Tip: Don’t pass the bathroom as there is not a bathroom on the dock and you will have to turn around and walk back up to the parking lot.

Once we got to the dock we walked into the gift shop on the dock to check in and were assigned seats and a boarding time of 9:45am. It was great that they assigned us seats since it meant we could board at 9:45 and know we were sitting together and didn’t have to worry about getting in line to secure our seats together.

Table of Contents

Getting Tickets

You can purchase tickets for the Lake Minnewanka boat cruise here . You should buy your tickets ahead of time so you can be sure there is availability for the time slot you would like.

If you plan to do more than one activity in Banff – which we do recommend! You will want to look into the Pursuit Pass.

We got on and sat down in our seats and waited for the boat cruise to take off at 10am. Once it started our tour guides for the trip gave us our safety lesson and shared with us what the 1 hour long trip would look like. About 25 minutes out to the middle of the lake, shut the engine off, float around for a few minutes, turn around and come back.

He also mentioned he would be talking for the whole first half but not all of the second half. That was kind of true :). He did continue talking in the 2nd half but was very informative and funny so it was all good! There was also time to ask questions.

During his presentation he shared about the history of the lake. Back to the first settlers to current times. He had a variety of pictures he walked around to show to support what he was sharing which was helpful for all of us to get a better idea of what he was talking about.

He also had a hot stone that he poured water over and walked around to let everyone touch it. This was related to the first settlers in the rocky mountains area and how they used to cook.

Back Of The Boat

One of my favorite parts was when we hit the half way mark and the captain shut the boat engine off and our tour guide told everyone we would be quiet for the next 10 seconds and take in the sounds of the backcountry of Canada.

We were quiet for longer than 10 seconds but it was so cool to just sit out there in the middle of the lake in silence!

After that she started the engine back up and off we went! At this point me and a few of the kids headed to the back of the boat to sit out on the back deck of the boat. This gave us amazing views of the lake and the surrounding mountains.

We docked back right at 11am! There is a coffee shop, picnic tables, personal boats/kayaks to rent and an area to hang out and enjoy the lake views after the cruise is done. This is a popular destinations for people to come when visiting Banff National Park.

We all enjoyed being on the boat with the windows open and the lake breeze blowing in on us as we learned about the history of the area and took in the amazing colors of the lake water and the Canadian Rockies!

Q&A About The Lake Minnewanka Cruise

@crazyfamilyadventure Things To Do In Banff National Park: Lake Minnewanka Boat Cruise We headed out on the 10am 1 hour long boat ride on Lake Minnewanka with Pursuit Collection. The water color is amazing and the scenery is gorgeous! Plus our tour guide did a great job giving us an overview of the Lake and sharing a lot of history about the lake and the area. It is a great way to start your morning in Banff National Park! Follow @crazyfamilyadventure on our adventure from Wisconsin To Alaska in our RV! Follow @crazyfamilyadventure on our adventure from Wisconsin To Alaska in our RV! #hosted @pursuitbanffjasper #pursuitlife #banff #travelwithkids #lakeminnewanka #explorecanada #familyvacation #familytravel #familyroadtrip ♬ original sound – CrazyFamilyAdventure

Is Lake Minnewanka worth seeing?

Yes! You won’t want to miss seeing the beautiful lake water color with the mountains around. The contrast of the mountains, the trees and the water color is breathtaking.

How long is Lake Minnewanka tour?

It is 1 hour total on the boat itself. It is recommended you arrive 30 minutes before you depart. And they let you start to board 15 minutes before your departure. They leave right on time and it is a good 5 minute walk from the parking lot to the boat and parking can take time so make sure to give yourself enough time to get there, get parked and make the walk down.

If you are early you can hang out by the lake, grab a coffee, and just enjoy the beautiful views.

How far is Banff to Lake Minnewanka?

It is a 17 minute drive or 10km from downtown Banff to Lake Minnewanka. When using Google Maps you will need to put in Lake Minnewanka Cruise. If you just put in Lake Minnewanka it won’t work.

How do I get to Minnewanka?

You can easily drive here from downtown Banff. Just be prepared. You may have to drive around and wait for someone to leave to get a parking spot. People are always coming and going as they leave after their boat cruise.

Some will hang out by the Lake but it isn’t a spot most people are at for the whole day.

If you don’t want to drive there is another option. You can take Roam Transit (route 6) either by parking at the Minnewanka Park & Ride or the Banff Train Station (summer months only). You can learn more about route 6 and the Roam Transit here.

Pursuit Collections

The Lake Minnewanka Cruise is run by Pursuit Collections. They offer a variety of other activities around Banff, Canada and Alaska. We are very impressed with the company and loved their inclusive philosophy. Along with their focus on sharing information about the first nations people in Canada on their activities.

Banff National Park Itinerary

If you are planning your trip to Banff you can purchase a digital copy of our 4 day itinerary for $3.99 and download it immediately!

Additional Activities You Don’t Want To Miss In Banff National Park

There are so many great things to do in Banff National Park . Here are a few we don’t think you should miss.

Banff Gondola – we had an awesome time going up on the Banff Gondola. We loved taking in amazing views and hike to the top of Sulphur Mountain!

Horseback Riding With Banff Trail Riders – we went on an enjoyable 1 hour horseback ride along the Bow River with Banff Trail Riders.

Golden Skybridge – we had a blast spending the afternoon at the Golden Skybridge. Walking across suspension bridges, zip-lining and doing the ropes course!

Columbia Icefield Adventure – Walk on a glacier and out on a glass bottom skywalk over a canyon!

Johnston Canyon Lower Falls Hike – Don’t miss this quick, easy and beautiful hike while you are in Banff!

Whitewater Rafting – be sure to set aside an afternoon to go white water rafting with Chinook Rafting! We had so much fun!!

Pin this post for later:

**We were hosted by Pursuit Collections on our Banff Gondola experience. All opinions are our own.

• Recent Posts

• 5 Tips On How To Leave The Stress Behind And Enjoy Your National Park Trip - April 11, 2024
• 21 Fun Things To Do In Port St Joe Florida - April 6, 2024
• RV Living VS Living In A Sticks And Bricks – Our Experience - April 1, 2024

DISCLOSURE : This post may contain affiliate links, meaning I get a commission if you decide to make a purchase through my links, at no cost to you. Please read my disclosure for more info.

Lake Minnewanka Cruise

• See all photos

Similar Experiences

Most Recent: Reviews ordered by most recent publish date in descending order.

Detailed Reviews: Reviews ordered by recency and descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as waiting time, length of visit, general tips, and location information.

Lake Minnewanka Cruise - All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go (2024)

For inquiries or to book by phone, call

1.866.474.4766

• Location & Hours
• Premium Cruise
• Junior Explorer Cruise
• Beer Voyage

Getting to Lake Minnewanka Cruise

Lake Minnewanka Cruise is located at Lake Minnewanka, a 15-minute drive from the town of Banff along the Minnewanka Loop Drive, in Banff National Park, Alberta, Canada. Upon arrival, proceed to our Boathouse for check ins and other information.

Board ROAM bus for free From Downtown Banff

Lake Minnewanka is one of Banff’s most popular destinations and the parking lot fills quickly. For the best experience, consider taking the bus. Hop on Roam Transit's Route 6 service and show your cruise ticket to the bus driver to get a FREE RIDE .

Board a bus from downtown Banff no later than an hour prior to your cruise time to ensure you arrive on time. Review Roam's bus schedule to find the most appropriate timing*.

*Free Roam Public Transit ride with tour ticket returning May 17, 2024. .

If you're driving, please arrive at least two hours prior to your cruise time to ensure you find a parking spot and have time to explore the area from the shore.

2024 Daily Operating Dates

Black anchor snack shop, boat rentals.

• * Junior Explorer Cruise  includes one child admitted free with each paying adult.
• The majority of the boats on Lake Minnewanka are now fully wheelchair accessible. If you book your tickets in advance online, please contact our boathouse at (403) 762-4425 ahead of your visit to make necessary arrangements.
• Hours and rates are subject to change without notice.
• Availability is on a first-come, first-serve basis and specific departure times cannot be guaranteed without pre-purchased tickets.
• Purchased tickets are nonrefundable, including Pursuit Passes. View full terms and conditions here .
• For the safety of those onboard bear spray is not permitted on cruises.

1.866.606.6700   |  CONTACT US

Stay connected

• Bahasa Indonesia
• Slovenščina
• Science & Tech
• Russian Kitchen

Cruising the Moskva River: A short guide to boat trips in Russia’s capital

There’s hardly a better way to absorb Moscow’s atmosphere than on a ship sailing up and down the Moskva River. While complicated ticketing, loud music and chilling winds might dampen the anticipated fun, this checklist will help you to enjoy the scenic views and not fall into common tourist traps.

How to find the right boat?

There are plenty of boats and selecting the right one might be challenging. The size of the boat should be your main criteria.

Plenty of small boats cruise the Moskva River, and the most vivid one is this yellow Lay’s-branded boat. Everyone who has ever visited Moscow probably has seen it.

This option might leave a passenger disembarking partially deaf as the merciless Russian pop music blasts onboard. A free spirit, however, will find partying on such a vessel to be an unforgettable and authentic experience that’s almost a metaphor for life in modern Russia: too loud, and sometimes too welcoming. Tickets start at $13 (800 rubles) per person.

Bigger boats offer smoother sailing and tend to attract foreign visitors because of their distinct Soviet aura. Indeed, many of the older vessels must have seen better days. They are still afloat, however, and getting aboard is a unique ‘cultural’ experience. Sometimes the crew might offer lunch or dinner to passengers, but this option must be purchased with the ticket. Here is one such  option  offering dinner for $24 (1,490 rubles).

If you want to travel in style, consider Flotilla Radisson. These large, modern vessels are quite posh, with a cozy restaurant and an attentive crew at your service. Even though the selection of wines and food is modest, these vessels are still much better than other boats.

Surprisingly, the luxurious boats are priced rather modestly, and a single ticket goes for $17-$32 (1,100-2,000 rubles); also expect a reasonable restaurant bill on top.

How to buy tickets?

Women holding photos of ships promise huge discounts to “the young and beautiful,” and give personal invitations for river tours. They sound and look nice, but there’s a small catch: their ticket prices are usually more than those purchased online.

“We bought tickets from street hawkers for 900 rubles each, only to later discover that the other passengers bought their tickets twice as cheap!”  wrote  (in Russian) a disappointed Rostislav on a travel company website.

Nevertheless, buying from street hawkers has one considerable advantage: they personally escort you to the vessel so that you don’t waste time looking for the boat on your own.

Prices start at $13 (800 rubles) for one ride, and for an additional $6.5 (400 rubles) you can purchase an unlimited number of tours on the same boat on any given day.

Flotilla Radisson has official ticket offices at Gorky Park and Hotel Ukraine, but they’re often sold out.

Buying online is an option that might save some cash. Websites such as  this   offer considerable discounts for tickets sold online. On a busy Friday night an online purchase might be the only chance to get a ticket on a Flotilla Radisson boat.

This  website  (in Russian) offers multiple options for short river cruises in and around the city center, including offbeat options such as ‘disco cruises’ and ‘children cruises.’ This other  website  sells tickets online, but doesn’t have an English version. The interface is intuitive, however.

Buying tickets online has its bad points, however. The most common is confusing which pier you should go to and missing your river tour.

“I once bought tickets online to save with the discount that the website offered,” said Igor Shvarkin from Moscow. “The pier was initially marked as ‘Park Kultury,’ but when I arrived it wasn’t easy to find my boat because there were too many there. My guests had to walk a considerable distance before I finally found the vessel that accepted my tickets purchased online,” said the man.

There are two main boarding piers in the city center:  Hotel Ukraine  and  Park Kultury . Always take note of your particular berth when buying tickets online.

Where to sit onboard?

Even on a warm day, the headwind might be chilly for passengers on deck. Make sure you have warm clothes, or that the crew has blankets ready upon request.

The glass-encased hold makes the tour much more comfortable, but not at the expense of having an enjoyable experience.

Getting off the boat requires preparation as well. Ideally, you should be able to disembark on any pier along the way. In reality, passengers never know where the boat’s captain will make the next stop. Street hawkers often tell passengers in advance where they’ll be able to disembark. If you buy tickets online then you’ll have to research it yourself.

There’s a chance that the captain won’t make any stops at all and will take you back to where the tour began, which is the case with Flotilla Radisson. The safest option is to automatically expect that you’ll return to the pier where you started.

If using any of Russia Beyond's content, partly or in full, always provide an active hyperlink to the original material.

to our newsletter!

Get the week's best stories straight to your inbox

• What to do in Moscow City, if you’re not mega-rich
• Moscow after dusk: 10 places to drink, dance, and groove
• 5 things you must do in Moscow in 2018 between football matches (or without them)
• Sandwiched between Moscow and St. Petersburg: How to spend a perfect weekend in Tver 
• 24 or 48 hours in Moscow: Where to go and what to do in 2019

This website uses cookies. Click here to find out more.