Spring 2022 will mark a significant milestone for Canada as the first Alaskan-bound cruise ships return to Vancouver for the first time after a two-year hiatus. To celebrate this momentous occasion, we have partnered with the leaders of Alaskan cruising to bring you some very special offers, and we’d like to tell you why Vancouver is the ideal port to set sail from on your cruise to Alaska.

How to Reach Vancouver

Located at the mouth of the Fraser River in southwest British Columbia, Vancouver is an easily accessible embarkation port. Most visitors must arrive by air, but residents of the province’s interior, Vancouver Island, and even Washington and Oregon states can reach the vibrant city by car or ferry.

A City Full of Attractions

But don’t just arrive and sail away! Vancouver offers a plethora of attractions and deserves a longer visit.

Surrounded by the Burrard Inlet, False Creek, and English Bay, the entire Vancouver waterfront is linked by a picturesque pathway chock full of scenic views. All of the city’s sights can be reached on foot or by public transit.

Start your visit with historic Gastown. Its cobblestoned streets are lined with Victorian architecture housing galleries, restaurants, and shops. Robson and Georgia streets offer world-class shopping, and thanks to the city’s cultural diversity, dining here is a gastronomic journey for your taste buds.

The 1,000-acre Stanley Park is a welcoming oasis within the city, encircled by a multi-use seawall. A collection of totem poles, an aquarium, forested trails, and three beaches promise fun and respite for the entire family.

On the North shore, take the gondola to the Peak of Grouse Mountain for panoramic views of the city, and enjoy a variety of outdoor activities and dining venues. Make sure to meet Grinder and Coola at the grizzly bear habitat! En route, stop by the Capilano Suspension Bridge to admire the coastal rainforest via a series of viewing platforms and the iconic bridge, suspended 110 feet above its namesake river gorge.

A few minutes away from downtown and anchored by a colorful public market, Granville Island exudes a bustling vibe. Visitors can spend the day enjoying outdoor dining and shopping for unique gifts from fine galleries, art studios, and local crafters. A fun way to get there is by taking the rainbow-hued Aquabus ferry from the city’s West End.

Day-trip Excursions

Several stunning attractions are located just outside of Vancouver. Don’t miss Whistler, consistently voted as North America’s best ski resort. In the summer, gondolas whisk visitors to the top of Whistler and Blackcomb mountains, over 6,000 feet above sea level. The views are breathtaking! Outdoor activities include hiking, mountain biking, and ziplining, while the village offers plenty of shopping and dining experiences.

Getting there on the spectacular Sea-to-Sky Highway is an experience in itself, with jaw-dropping views of Howe Sound and the coastal mountains. Along the way, stop at Britannia Beach for a tour of a historic copper mine. Halfway between Vancouver and Whistler is Squamish, home to yet another scenic Sea to Sky gondola and the invigorating hiking trails at Shannon Falls and the Stawamus Chief.

If you have an extra day, hop on a ferry to Victoria - British Columbia’s capital city. Its picturesque inner harbor charms visitors with shops and restaurants; other attractions include Canada’s oldest Chinatown and the world-renowned Butchart Gardens.

A Spectacular Sail-Away

When you’re ready for Alaska, find your way to the iconic white sails of Canada Place in downtown Vancouver. Be on deck for gorgeous views of Vancouver’s skyline and its snow-capped mountains as you set sail. Moments later, glide under the magnificent Lion’s Gate Bridge and wave to the onlookers above as they wish you Bon Voyage.

From here, your Alaskan journey begins immediately with scenic cruising through Canada’s Inside Passage, a route unique to cruises departing from Vancouver. With dramatic fjords and towering forests, it offers fantastic opportunities to view wildlife such as seals, bald eagles, and whales.

See Alaska with the Pioneers of Cruising

Princess Cruises and Holland America Line are the leaders in Alaskan cruising, sailing to The Great Land for over 50 years and 75 years respectively. Being the pioneers of cruising has its benefits, including a wide range of departures and itineraries, prime docking locations at ports of call, and coveted permits into protected natural reserves. In the Alaskan interior, both cruise lines operate dedicated tour buses, railcars, and lodges.

In addition, both offer sailings through the scenic Inside Passage and a visit to Glacier Bay National Park - considered two of the highlights of an Alaskan cruise. Onboard, guests enjoy an in-depth Alaskan experience with enriching cultural and culinary elements.

We invite you to peruse our special offers with Princess Cruises and Holland America Line, and make the most of these limited-time offers. With flexible booking policies and enhanced safety protocols in place, now is a great time to take advantage of this wonderful news of cruise ships returning to Vancouver port. We can help you plan the perfect trip, providing our expert advice and helping you with hotel bookings, sightseeing tours, and everything in between.

We’re very happy that cruise ships are returning to Vancouver, and we’d love to help you plan an amazing trip to Alaska!