Vancouver
Vancouver, British Columbia, is a stunning city nestled between the snow-capped Coast Mountains and the sparkling Pacific Ocean. It is a city of natural beauty and urban sophistication, with a multicultural spirit and a lively arts scene. As a major cruise port, Vancouver is a fantastic gateway to Alaska, with a world-class terminal that is conveniently located in the city center. For a cruiser, Vancouver is a perfect destination for those who want to experience a modern, vibrant city with a deep appreciation for the outdoors.
⛵ Port Introduction
Your cruise ship will dock directly at the Canada Place Cruise Terminal, which is a modern, spacious, and well-equipped facility. It is located on the waterfront of downtown Vancouver. You can walk right off the ship and into the terminal building. The walk from the ship to the terminal is short and easy, and from there, you are just a few steps from the city's main attractions.
⚓ Terminal Information
The Canada Place Cruise Terminal is a landmark of Vancouver. It is a large, permanent building with a unique design that is meant to look like a ship with five giant sails. The terminal is clean, comfortable, and well-equipped for your needs.
🚻 Terminal Facilities
The terminal has restrooms, a tourist information desk with friendly staff who can provide maps and directions, and a few shops selling souvenirs and snacks. Tour pickups and a taxi stand are located just outside the terminal. Public Wi-Fi is available in the terminal building, but it may be slow on a busy day.
🗣️ Language
The local language is English. You will have no problem navigating, communicating, or exploring the city.
💰 Money
The currency is the Canadian Dollar (CAD). Credit cards are widely accepted everywhere, and contactless payments are very common. It's a good idea to have some cash on hand for small purchases, but it is not necessary. ATMs are easy to find at the port and throughout the city.
🚗 Transportation
Vancouver is a very walkable city, and its main attractions are clustered in the city center.
Walking: The best way to explore downtown is on foot. The waterfront, Gastown, and Robson Street are all within easy walking distance of the cruise terminal.
Taxis: Taxis are available at the cruise terminal. They are regulated and use a meter.
Ride-Sharing: Uber and Lyft are available and very popular in Vancouver.
Public Transportation: Vancouver has an excellent public transportation system, TransLink, which includes the SkyTrain, buses, and the SeaBus. The SkyTrain station is a short walk from the cruise terminal, and it can take you to all the main attractions.
Ferry: A scenic and fast way to get from Vancouver to North Vancouver is to take the SeaBus, a passenger-only ferry that crosses the Burrard Inlet.
♿ Accessibility
Vancouver has an accessibility rating of 7 out of 10. The cruise terminal is fully accessible. The city is generally flat and well-maintained, and many of the main attractions are accessible. The public transportation system is also very accessible.
🚶♀️ The best way to get to town from cruise port
The best way to get to town from the cruise port is to simply walk. The port is located in the heart of downtown, and you can easily walk to all the main attractions.
🚽 Toilet
Public toilets are generally available and clean in Vancouver, especially at major tourist attractions, shopping centers, and museums. They are free to use.
💊 Drugstore
Shoppers Drug Mart: 1125 Robson St, Vancouver, BC V6E 1B7. This is a short taxi ride from the cruise terminal.
London Drugs: 2210 W 4th Ave, Vancouver, BC V6K 1N8.
✨ Authentic Experience
Walk the Seawall and Explore Stanley Park: For a taste of Vancouver's natural beauty, walk a portion of the Seawall, a 17-mile paved path that runs along the waterfront. The Seawall will take you to Stanley Park, a massive urban park with old-growth forests, totem poles, and stunning views of the city.
Dine on Local Pacific Northwest Cuisine: Vancouver is a foodie's paradise. Seek out a local restaurant and try some fresh, locally sourced Pacific Northwest cuisine, like salmon or oysters. You can also try a "JapaDog," a Japanese-style hot dog that is a local favorite.
Explore Gastown, a Historic and Charming Neighborhood: Just a short walk from the cruise terminal is Gastown, Vancouver's oldest neighborhood. It is a historic area of cobblestone streets, Victorian architecture, and unique boutiques. It's a great place to wander, get lost, and find a cozy cafe for a coffee.
