sea tour vancouver

• Telegraph Cove
• Sustainability
• Frequently Asked Questions
• Media Gallery
• Groups & Charters
• Gift Certificates

Connect with us:

Vancouver SEA VANCOUVER WATERFRONT SIGHTSEEING

Departure Location

GRANVILLE ISLAND ADVENTURE CENTRE 1666 DURANLEAU ST, VANCOUVER, BC V6H 3S2, CANADA

Please remember to check-in half an hour before your adventure.

What people are saying

Certificate of Excellence Since 2009

BC’s only climate positive whale watching operator

What’s Included

Experience the majesty of the Salish Sea and its wildlife, from whales surfacing in unison to bald eagles soaring overhead. Cut through the Strait of Juan de Fuca’s currents in search of orcas and humpback whales, and listen to our marine mammal experts bring the animals’ stories to life (while you stay warm, dry and hydrated in its heated cabin, of course!).

• Downtown Vancouver sightseeing tour  from the water, including Coal Harbour, the North Shore, English Bay, False Creek, Stanley Park and more.
• Guided by 1 expert guide , who will also be your boat driver.
• An exciting ride soaring up to 55 km/h  (35 m/h) in a high-speed, open-air, rigid-hull inflatable zodiac.
• To ensure your comfort , all-weather exposure suits or lifejackets will be provided.

Cancellation Policy

Need to cancel or reschedule – no problem! Just contact us at least 48 hours prior to your adventure’s departure to reschedule or to cancel (and receive a full refund), no questions asked.

More Details

• For independent travel bookings of 9 passengers or less: 48 hours before scheduled departure, partial or whole cancellations made within 48 hours before departure will be charged 100% of the tour price. Tour amendments cannot be completed within a 48-hour window. There will be no refunds for cancellations within the cancellation period.
• For groups of 10-19: 14 days before scheduled departure, partial or whole cancellations made within 14 days before departure will be charged 100% of the tour price based on the reserved number of passengers, or the final number in attendance, whichever is greater. Tour amendments cannot be guaranteed within a 14-day window.
• For Groups 20+: 21 days before scheduled departure; partial or whole cancellations made within 21 days before departure will be charged 100% of the tour price. Tour amendments cannot be guaranteed within the 21-day window.

For wholesale, travel trade, and 3rd party bookings, the cancellation and amendment policy can differ. Please refer to your booking contract for details.

Prepare for Adventure

It gets cold out on the water (trust us!), so we recommend  windbreaker jackets, sweaters, long pants, and closed-toe shoes.  We will also provide you with either warm all-weather exposure suits or lifejackets (depending on weather conditions) to wear on top of your clothes. It’s also a good idea to bring sunglasses, sunscreen, a tight-fitting hat, a camera to capture some memorable moments and, above all, your sense of adventure!

Whale watching is NOT included in this adventure and Whale Sighting Guarantee does not apply.

This adventure is not suitable for anyone with a history of serious medical conditions, including but not limited to, back or neck injuries, recent surgery, and/or current or suspected pregnancy. Passengers under 4ft/120cm in height or 50lb/23kg in weight also cannot join (typically applies to children under 7 y.o.).

Each passenger is required to sign a Release of Liability at check-in. Participants must be 19 years of age or require a parent or guardian to sign on their behalf.

The boat used for this adventure is not wheelchair accessible.

Do tours run in all types of weather?

Tours operate rain or shine! Safety is our priority and, in extreme weather conditions or high winds, adventures may be cancelled at the discretion of our qualified crew. We will be in touch should this be the case.

Will we see whales on Sea Vancouver?

No, this is a city sightseeing adventure and it DOES NOT include whale watching. Vancouver, however, is home to a variety of birds and sea mammals and we may occasionally see dolphins, harbor seals, bald eagles, and other sea birds during adventures.

Are there bathrooms on the Zodiacs?

No, the RHIBs are open-air boats, and therefore do not have washrooms on board. We recommend that you use the public washrooms (located next to our office) before your departure.

Are there snacks or beverages available on board the Zodiacs?

No, there are no snacks or beverages available on the Zodiac-style boats. You can bring your own snacks on board; however, do not consume too many liquids as there are no bathrooms onboard.

Do passengers often feel seasick?

No, our boats are custom-built for whale watching with passengers in mind. Captain and crew will also do their best to minimize the impact of the sea. However, if you are prone to seasickness, we recommend you purchase non-drowsy Gravol from a pharmacy prior to your adventure with us.

Can I bring a camera on a Zodiac?

Yes! Bring your camera and/or video camera to capture the experience. We also recommend that you bring a plastic bag or other waterproof case to keep your camera safe and dry during transit. The boat will come to a complete stop for photo opportunities.

Are Zodiac adventures safe?

Yes, all of our captains and boats are certified by Transport Canada. Zodiacs move fast but are very stable. There will be no 360-degree turns on this tour. These adventures are designed for fast sightseeing and not a thrill park ride.

Do I need to make a reservation?

Reservations are definitely recommended. Adventures often sell out and we don’t want you to be disappointed.

Seaplane Tours

One of Canada’s most authentic west coast experiences! Our tours show off the best of British Columbia and beyond. Travelling by seaplane is an incredible way to see where the city, the water and the mountains meet. From 20-minute flights to daytrip adventure packages, Harbour Air offers a range of award-winning must-do experiences.

Private local scenic tours are also available at all locations. See the best of your own city from above on a local scenic tour with just you and your closest crew on board! Click here to learn more about our Private Tours. 

Elevate your scenic tour experience when you choose the scenicULTIMATE fare option! Available on select Vancouver and Victoria tours, the scenicULTIMATE fare offers a complimentary pre- or post-flight beverage! Click here for a complete overview of our scenicTOUR and scenicULTIMATE fare options.

• Request a Tour

See the iconic city by seaplane on a scenic tour or #exploreBC on one of our adventure packages.

Get a stunning bird’s eye view of BC’s picturesque capital city.

Experience Whistler’s ultimate lift ticket with one of our most breathtaking seaplane tours.

Enjoy panoramic views of the Harbour City by seaplane.

Richmond (YVR South)

Take a daytrip to Victoria or the Gulf Islands with one of our adventure packages.

See the Sunshine Coast from above on one of our scenic aerial tours.

TripAdvisor Reviews

Other Seaplane Tours

Victoria Whale Watching Adventure

Day Trip to Vancouver

Victoria Extended Panorama

Richmond (YVR South) Whale Watching Adventure

The Strait of Georgia Experience

• Richmond(YVR) / Gulf Islands 1.800.447.3247 604.273.8900 Location
• Nanaimo 1.866.692.6440 250.753.1115 Location
• Vancouver Harbour 1.866.692.6440 604.647.7575 Location

Scenic Tours

Unique Experiences in amazing places. British Columbia’s ice blue glaciers, snow covered peaks, and a rugged, natural landscape with breathtaking scenery await you.

3 Ways to Explore

Whether you are an adventurer or an observer, we have a tour to suit your style of exploration.

Adventure Tours

Culinary Tours

Vancouver City Skyline

This is the tour to showcase our beautiful city of Vancouver. Enjoy panoramic views of the North Shore Mountains ...

Coastal Mountain Experience

Depart downtown Vancouver along the North Shore Mountains and have your camera ready as you cruise by the ...

Glacier & Alpine Lake Adventure

If you desire some of B.C.’s finest scenery, then this tour will ...

Chatterbox Falls Excursion

This spectacular journey starts with a low level flight along B.C.’s Sunshine Coast and includes views of the spectacular ...

Mail Run Tours

Depart from our Downtown Vancouverto the “harbour city” of Nanaimo or a stunning excursion across the Salish Sea ...

Nanaimo Kayak Adventure

Your exciting kayak adventure begins with a seaplane flight from Vancouver to the city of Nanaimo, located on Vancouver ...

Whale Watching

A unforgettable adventure awaits as you cruise the Salish Sea in search of killer whales, humpbacks, sea lions, seals, eagles, and ...

Fly n' Dine

Package includes round trip airfare between Downtown Vancouver to Nanaimo, where you’ll capture the scenic landscape of ...

Nanaimo Brewery Tour

Discover part of Vancouver Island’s amazing local food, craft beverage & estate winery scene as we tour through Nanaimo ...

Customized Seaplane Tours

Planning a proposal or wedding? Organizing a corporate event? Want to take a private fishing trip to a remote location?

Finding the Best Vancouver Seaplane Tour: Prices, Reviews, & Quick Tips

Jumping on a Vancouver seaplane tour is an awesome way to take in the stunning mountain and ocean views that make our city so special.

Whether you’re just visiting as a tourist or you’re a local and want something cool to do, it’s definitely worth considering.

But hey, is it really as cool as it sounds? Let’s break down seaplane tours in Vancouver, BC, so we can figure it out together.

The Best Seaplane Tour in Vancouver

If you’ve clicked through to my article, you’re probably looking for some unique, thrilling, fun – great start.

That said, I’m sure you don’t want to be taken for a ride, literally and figuratively, in a city known for cloudy days and high prices.

So, let’s start by looking at what’s included with the most common, highest-rated Vancouver seaplane tour: the Classic Vancouver Panorama Tour by Seaplane .

• A 20-minute sightseeing seaplane ride departing from downtown Vancouver
• The stunning scenery of the North Shore Mountains, harbour, Stanley Park , city skyline and more
• A ride with the world’s largest all-seaplane fleet and the first carbon-neutral airline in North America
• Possibility to book now and pay later
• Free cancellation tickets up to 24 hours before take-off
• Includes carbon offset charges

Here’s a sneak preview of the Vancouver seaplane tour to give you a better idea:

As you can see, there are very few cities that can offer this type of scenery and seaplane tour guests are generally very satisfied:

Want to check out the customer reviews that made this rating? You can see them on the Lock In Seats With No Money Down .

In the meantime, let’s look at prices and see if it’s something you want to do.

Related : Seaplane from Vancouver to Victoria

Vancouver Seaplane Tour Cost

The Vancouver seaplane tour price for the Classic Vancouver Panorama Tour  is $160.00 CAD per person.

Children between 2 and 11 can ride for $87.00 CAD, while children under 2 fly free with a paying adult.

Click the orange button below to get to the booking platform, get free cancellation tickets, and have the option to pay later .

There’s also the chance to book the Extended Vancouver Panorama Tour, which is more than double the length at 45 minutes.

Adults fly for $234.00 CAD, and kids fly for $125.00.

Whatever you decide, since there are only ten seats per flight, it’s recommended to book way in advance, especially if you’re visiting Vancouver in the summer .

Is it worth it to take Vancouver seaplane tours?

Over the years, I’ve talked to many budget travellers who find the $160.00 price tag a bit steep, and that’s fine.

If the idea makes your wallet flinch, you may want to go for the Vancouver Hop on Hop Off bus tour or a trip to Grouse Mountain instead.

That said, how often are you going to take an aerial tour of one of the most beautiful cities on Earth?

Here you’re paying for a once-in-a-lifetime experience , making this ideal splurge activity to elevate a holiday or celebrate a loved one .

Also, if you’re looking at a rainy forecast, you can always cancel as long as it’s 24 hours in advance. There’s lots of flexibility here too.

Seaplane Vancouver Tour Schedule

20-minute seaplane tours in Vancouver depart at 9:30 am, 10:30 am, and 4:00 pm.

The 45-minute extended seaplane tours depart at 10:15 am, 2:15 pm, and 5:00 pm . So, the last flight is the better bet if you’re looking for a sunset ride.

Booking at least two weeks in advance for seaplane tours Vancouver is recommended to ensure you get the right time. Again, there is a maximum of 10 passengers per flight – so flights fill up fast.

Top Seaplane Tours Vancouver FAQs

What is the vancouver seaplane tour price.

The best Vancouver seaplane tour price is $160.00 CAD for adults and $87.00 CAD for children.

Are the Vancouver seaplane tours scary?

Seaplane tours are not scary. If you’re fine taking flights with jets, it shouldn’t be a problem. In fact, some fliers have said that they don’t even feel the water landings:

Where is the Vancouver Seaplane terminal?

The Vancouver seaplane terminal is found at 1055 Canada Pl in Coal Harbour in downtown Vancouver.

What will I see on my Vancouver sea plane tour?

During your Vancouver seaplane tour, you’ll witness stunning aerial views of the city skyline, Stanley Park, Lions Gate Bridge, and the surrounding coastal mountains, providing a unique perspective of Vancouver’s natural and urban beauty.

What must I bring with me on my Vancouver floatplane tour?

For your Vancouver floatplane tour, bring your ID, camera, sunglasses, sunscreen, and a light jacket. Comfortable clothing and closed-toe shoes are recommended. Check with the tour operator for any specific requirements.

Ready for the Best Seaplane Tour of Vancouver?

My goal is to address all inquiries regarding living and travelling in Vancouver, and I trust that I have achieved that objective in this discussion.

However, if there are still lingering questions about Vancouver seaplane tours or any other topic, feel free to leave a comment below.

Whether you’re considering these tours or not, we’re here to assist with all your Vancouver planning needs.

Did you have a pleasant experience on your Vancouver seaplane ride?

Photo credits : Harbour Air

Related posts

Cruising from Vancouver: Essential 2024 Vancouver Cruise Terminal Info

4 Best Vancouver Whale Watching Tours (2024 Reviews)

12 Things to Do in Vancouver with Kids

Leave a reply cancel reply.

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

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

City & Nature Tour

City & nature tour route.

Points of Interest

• Granville Island and False Creek
• English Bay
• Stanley Park
• Burrard Inlet
• Point Atkinson
• Grebe Islets
• Whytecliff Park
• Spanish Banks

What you could see

Departing From

GRANVILLE ISLAND ADVENTURE CENTRE

1666 Duranleau St, Vancouver, BC V6H 352, Canada

Please remember to check in 30 minutes before your adventure.

What to Wear

Dress in layers and wear flat closed-toed shoes for marine travel. We’ll be moving at high speeds (over 30 mph or 55 km/h) on the water, where temperatures are at least 10 degrees C cooler. Bring a windbreaker or jacket to stay comfortable outdoors. Zodiac passengers must wear our red cruiser suits, which keep you warm and act as life preservers. These suits are required by Transport Canada. Lastly, don’t forget your sunglasses and sunscreen!

What People Are Saying

BC’s only climate positive Waterfront Tour operator

Cancellation Policy

Need to cancel or reschedule – no problem! Just contact us at least 48 hours prior to your adventure’s departure to reschedule or to cancel (and receive a full refund), no questions asked.

Terms & Conditions

• This adventure has a hassle-free 48-hour cancellation policy. Just contact us at least 48 hours prior to your departure to cancel and receive a full refund.
• For independent travel bookings of 9 passengers or less: 48 hours before scheduled departure, partial or whole cancellations made within 48 hours before departure will be charged 100% of the tour price. Tour amendments cannot be completed within a 48-hour window. There will be no refunds for cancellations within the cancellation period.
• For groups of 10-19: 14 days before scheduled departure, partial or whole cancellations made within 14 days before departure will be charged 100% of the tour price based on the reserved number of passengers, or the final number in attendance, whichever is greater. Tour amendments cannot be guaranteed within a 14-day window.
• For Groups 20+: 21 days before scheduled departure; partial or whole cancellations made within 21 days before departure will be charged 100% of the tour price. Tour amendments cannot be guaranteed within the 21-day window.
• For wholesale, travel trade, and 3rd party bookings, the cancellation and amendment policy can differ. Please refer to your booking contract for details. no questions asked. Groups of 10+ guests are subject to a 72-hour cancellation policy. There will be no refunds for cancellations within the cancellation period.
• Promotional (discounted) bookings are final sale.
• We reserve the right to delay or cancel a departure if there are fewer than 20 guests reserved at the time of departure or in case of events beyond our control (adverse weather conditions, technical or mechanical issues etc.).

Frequently Asked Questions

How long are the adventures.

Adventures are 90 – 180 minutes long

How early do we need to arrive before our tour?

We ask that you arrive 30 minutes prior to your scheduled departure time.

What do you see on the tours?

The Zodiacs will cover a route along Coal Harbour, the Northshore, English Bay, False Creek and Stanley Park, with Vancouver’s highlights being talked about along the way. You will get a different perspective of the city skyscrapers, runners on the seawall, get up close and personal to the offshore freighters and wave to sun tanners on Vancouver’s beaches. If you have anything specific you are interested in, please let our skippers know they would be happy to talk about those with you. Vancouver is also home to a variety of birds and sea mammals, with possible sightings of dolphins, harbor seals, bald eagles and other sea birds during our adventures.

Where do I keep my personal belongings?

Our offices have complimentary lockers for dry storage and we recommend using it so purses and handbags are not water damaged.

Can I bring my camera?

Yes, bring your camera and/or video camera. We also recommend that you bring a plastic bag to keep your camera safe and dry during transit. The boat will come to a complete stop for photo opportunities. Don’t forget your batteries!

Are there bathrooms on the boat?

The Zodiacs are open aired, and therefore do not have washrooms on board. We recommend that you use the public washrooms (located next to our office) before your departure.

Are adventures safe?

Of course! The Zodiacs go fast but they are very stable. The adventures are designed for fast sightseeing and not a thrill park ride.

Do I need to make a reservation?

Reservations are definitely recommended so that we can offer you the best departure time to fit your schedule. Trips often sell out and we don’t want you to be disappointed. However, if you are walking past and want to join an adventure, head to the office 1666 Duranleau Street on Granville Island across from Bridges Restaurant and jump on the next scheduled adventure with availability.

Is there an age limit?

There is a minimum height restriction of 4 feet/120cm. This typically applies to children under the age of 7 years.

Are there any health restrictions?

This tour is not suitable for anyone with a history of serious medical conditions including but not limited to back or neck injury, recent surgery, and/or current or suspected pregnancy.

Do you run in all types of weather?

Tours operate rain or shine! Safety is our priority, and in extreme weather conditions or high winds adventures may be cancelled at the discretion of our qualified skippers.

Other useful info

You may get a little wet!

• Meetings & Conventions
• Travel Trade

Landsea Tours & Adventures

• 4220 Vanguard Road
• Richmond, BC V6X 2P4
• Phone: 604.255.7272, Toll Free: 1.877.669.2277

Landsea Tours & Adventures provide half-day and full-day sightseeing excursions around Vancouver, Victoria, Whistler, Sea-to-Sky corridor and Vancouver’s North Shore. Our highly trained, award-winning driver/guides host fun and informative tours conducted on our preferred mini-coaches. With hotel pick-up & drop-off, and a la carte adventure options, each tour is unique and personalized just for you. Fully narrated and inclusive of multiple stops with free time to capture the stunning scenery, you’re sure not to miss a thing.

Private tours are also available with our Landsea Charters & Services. We have a full-time charters team dedicated to helping you create an unforgettable customized tour to fit your group’s aspirations. Choose from our luxury 6-passenger SUV, 11-passenger Mercedez-Benz Sprinter Van, or one of our spacious and relaxing 24 to 30-passenger mini-coaches.

As a boutique tour company with over 35 years of proven service excellence, trust Landsea Tours to provide value, year-round, premium tours featuring the finest of British Columbia’s west coast.

Landsea Tours, sightseeing the way it should be!

• Sustainability Certifications
• Trip Advisor
• Related Businesses

Landsea Tours & Adventures provide half-day and full-day sightseeing excursions around Vancouver, Victoria, Whistler, Sea-to-Sky corridor and Vancouver’s North Shore. Our highly trained, award-winning driver/guides host fun and informative tours conducted on our preferred mini-coaches. With hotel pick-up & drop-off, and a la carte adventure options, each tour is unique and personalized just for you. By seeking to reduce the impact on the environment beyond measures required by governmental rule, we produce a better environment, conserving natural resources and ensuring our long-term sustainability. Green Tourism Canada has helped establish an action plan we are proud to foster into our future.

Yelp Reviews

Want the inside scoop sign up for our newsletter.

Vancouver and Area Day Tours

#3 outdoor activity, the easiest travel decision you'll ever make, small group sizes, more vacation. less effort., the best guides isn't an exaggeration, favourite stops. great variety., explore canada’s best on these tours.

Vancouver Highlights Tour

Vancouver City + Lookout + Capilano Suspension Bridge Tour

Victoria and Butchart Gardens Tour

Vancouver North Shore Tour: Mountain Discovery

Whistler, Shannon Falls, & Sea to Sky Gondola Tour

Vancouver pre and post-cruise tours, vancouver tour packages, private transport & transfers, public tours, pre/post cruise tours, tour upgrades, transportation.

Landsea Tours and Adventures

• See all photos

Vancouver City Sightseeing Tour: Capilano Suspension Bridge & Vancouver Lookout

Whistler & Sea to Sky Gondola Small-Group Day Trip from Vancouver

Vancouver City Sightseeing Tour: Granville Island & Stanley Park

Victoria and Butchart Gardens Day Trip from Vancouver

Post-cruise: Vancouver Tour with Lookout & Capilano Bridge

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 wait time, length of visit, general tips, and location information.

Landsea Tours and Adventures - All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go (2024)

Buy a gift card today!

• Most Popular!
• 100% Whale Sighting Guarantee! *

Vancouver Whale Watching Adventure

Our Most Popular Trip!

Quick Details

• Clock Duration: 3-5 Hours Approx.
• Info Note: A $20 fuel charge will be applied at check out. Children need to be dressed properly as some of our equipment may not fit smaller guests.
• Anchor Gear: All safety equipment provided including Mustang flotation suits

Salish Sea Whale Watching Adventure

Departing from Crescent Beach Marina, 30 minutes south of downtown Vancouver, join us on a whale watching eco-adventure where we explore the Canadian Gulf Islands, the US San Juan Islands, and beyond in search of whales and other wildlife in their natural habitat. Have your cameras ready as you travel into the Georgia Strait, on the Salish Sea, exploring British Columbia’s spectacular scenery. This enchanting journey features secluded bays, secret coves, and world-class scenery. We seek Biggs killer whales, humpback, grey, minke whales, sea lions, harbour porpoise, seals, and more! The adventure includes stops to favourite spots for lunch (when practicable depending on weather, location of animals and operational factors). Every whale watching trip is different, each lasting between 3-5 hours approx, aboard Spartan 1 or 2, our new 34ft rigid hull inflatable boats (RHIB) specifically designed for whale watching, providing a safe and comfortable journey, with suspension seating , heated cabin and washroom. It’ an unforgettable whale watching trip of a lifetime! Join us for an exciting whale watching tour in metro Vancouver!

100% Our Guarantee

With an excellent sighting success rate, we guarantee that you will see whales, marine mammals, and breathtaking scenery, or we’ll invite you back on a future trip!   Good for life! We are members of the Pacific Whale Watch Association , a large network of whale watching tour operators and ecotourism businesses committed to education, conservation, and responsible whale watching. Our network is in constant contact, keeping each other updated on all whale sightings in the Salish Sea. Sightings are guaranteed from April to October, and likely from November to March. We’ve been a trusted Vancouver whale tour operator since 2014.

What to Wear/Bring

We provide life jackets and survival floatation suits, which provide warmth and floatation. Guests should wear layered clothing. Depending on the time of year and weather, we suggest a wool/fleece sweater, gloves, toque (knit cap), waterproof footwear if windy or wet, rain jacket and pants if you have them, sunglasses, money if able to stop for a break, snack, water, camera, a small bag, a smile, and lots of enthusiasm for adventure!

Due to the nature of the sea, we recommend consulting your doctor should you have any health issues. Inform the captain of any concerns prior to boarding and/or anytime throughout your trip. Call us anytime with any questions or to seek clarification. Guests required complete a waiver during booking.

As seating is limited on our adventure type boats, all seats are the regular price. Our services are non-refundable. Credit can be issued if given sufficient notice to fill seats.

We reserve the right to reschedule or delay trips due to weather conditions, mechanical, or operational circumstances. We reserve the right to assign vessels and seating. Tours may vary in duration.

Related Tours

• Great Views!
• Clock 30-60 Min.

Crescent Beach Sunset Cruise

Enjoy the beauty of the setting sun while you observe the marine wildlife along the shores of Semiahmoo Bay and Boundary Bay.

Boat Cruise

This daily 30-minute cruise offers beautiful views of the British Columbia coastline, and an excellent opportunity to take photos.

Book a private charter for your group! Great for holidays, special events, and romantic getaways. Available year-round.