Vancouver: City & Indian Arm Waterfall Boat Tour

Summary

Boat past Stanley Park & Lions Gate Bridge into wild fjord scenery

You’ll zip along Vancouver’s waterfront by boat with a local guide, passing Stanley Park and under Lions Gate Bridge before heading into Indian Arm’s wild fjord scenery. Feel waterfall spray on your face, spot seals or eagles up close, and hear stories about the area’s history — all with your gear included. It’s not just sightseeing; it gets under your skin.

What’s the experience like?

“You’ll want to zip up tight,” our skipper grinned, handing me this bright red suit that made me feel like an astronaut. I’d barely wrangled my camera into a plastic bag before we shot out of False Creek — wind sharp, gulls screeching overhead, the city shrinking behind us. I could smell salt and something green, like wet cedar. We skimmed past Stanley Park and under Lions Gate Bridge so fast my stomach dropped a little (in a good way). Li, our guide, pointed at a bald eagle perched on a snag — just sitting there like it owned the place.

The water changed as we left Vancouver’s harbor — darker, quieter somehow. Indian Arm felt like another world: mountains crowding in, mist hanging low. I didn’t expect to see seals lounging on rocks (they looked bored but also kind of smug), or to get that close to the waterfall. The spray hit my face cold and sweet, and for a second nobody said anything — just the sound of water pounding rock and the boat bobbing. My hands were freezing but I couldn’t stop grinning. Li told us stories about the park’s history; I probably missed half because I was busy staring at the light shifting on the cliffs.

On the way back someone asked if we’d always get sun like this in Vancouver — Li just laughed and shook his head (“You got lucky!”). My hair was tangled from the wind and my shoes were damp but honestly, I still think about that view up Indian Arm when everything went quiet except for birds and water. If you’re thinking about this day trip from Vancouver, bring layers — it’s colder than you’d guess out there, even in summer. Oh, and don’t be late; they really won’t wait for you.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Vancouver Waterfront and Indian Arm Tour

• Cruise Vancouver Inner Harbour
• Pass Coal Harbour and Northshore
• View English Bay and False Creek
• See Stanley Park from water
• Cross Burrard Inlet at 55 Km/h
• Explore Say Nuth Khaw Yum Park
• Observe seals and bald eagles
• Feel spray from waterfalls

Top questions

How long is the Vancouver City & Waterfall Waterfront Boat Tour?

The tour lasts approximately 3 hours from departure to return.

Is hotel pickup included in this Vancouver boat tour?

No, hotel pickup is not included; public transportation options are nearby.

Will I get wet during the Indian Arm boat tour?

You may get wet from spray; cruiser suits are provided but bring layers and closed-toed shoes.

Are children allowed on this sightseeing boat tour?

Children must be over 4ft/120cm tall and 50lb/23kg in weight (typically over age 7).

What should I wear for this Vancouver sightseeing boat trip?

Dress in layers with flat closed-toed shoes; temperatures are cooler on the water.

Are there any health restrictions for joining?

This tour isn’t recommended for travelers with spinal injuries, poor cardiovascular health or pregnancy.

What wildlife might I see during the Indian Arm fjord cruise?

You might spot seals lounging on rocks or bald eagles perched along the shore.

Is there a free photo package included?

Yes, a free photo package is included with your booking.

What’s included

Your day includes all necessary equipment such as cruiser suits to keep you warm (and mostly dry), a friendly local guide who shares stories along the way, plus a free photo package so you can focus on enjoying those moments instead of fiddling with your phone or camera while bouncing over waves.