UNESCO Biosphere & Bowen Island Boat Tour

A up-close experience with everything from scenic shorelines to salty seals.

During this exhilarating 4-hour Zodiac boat tour of Vancouver and the UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, Howe Sound, you’ll experience panoramic views of the world’s southernmost glacial fjord, visit a nationally significant lighthouse, and cruise along 182 acres of virgin temperate rainforest.

Your tour will cruise through the Sea to Sky corridor which includes the Tantalus Mountain range, Tantalus Glacier, Howe Sound Fjord, Bowen Island, Seal Island and much more.

Departing from Granville Island, you’ll cruise to Bowen Island where you will have a little more than an hour to explore the shops and restaurants in Snug Cove. You will have the option to enjoy a coffee, wine, beer, or ice cream at one of the amazing establishments on Bowen Island.

Next, you’ll stop at Lighthouse Park before entering the UNESCO Reserve known as Howe Sound. The small, comfortable Zodiac boat will give you the chance to get up close and personal with a bustling local seal colony and the incredible wildlife of the Pacific Northwest.

You’ll cruise up to Bowyer Island where your knowledgeable and entertaining guide will tell you about the glaciers, mountains and Horseshoe Bay where the Island ferries sail in and out.  You will explore the coastline of along Gambier Island, enjoying the Coastal Temperate Rain Forest as you watch for bald eagles, sea lions, porpoises and much more wildlife.

Tour highlights: 

• Experience an exhilarating Zodiac boat tour of Vancouver and the UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, Howe Sound.
• Visit Lighthouse Park and Horseshoe Bay.
• Unforgettable seal encounters and unrivaled access to Vancouver’s local wildlife.
• Stop at Bowen Island and explore the shops and restaurants.
• Discover interesting stories about West Vancouver and Howe Sound, including local history, views of multi-million-dollar celebrity homes, and unique geological facts.

What's included:

• Professional guide.
• Life jacket.
• Optional warm & waterproof cruising suit for cooler days
• Your choice of beer, wine, coffee, smoothie, or ice cream on Bowen Island.

When: May - October with tours daily 12:00pm

Need to Know:

• Departure is from Granville Island.
• Maximum capacity is 12 passengers per boat.
• Minimum height requirement to participate is 4 feet.
• Not recommended for participants with back problems.
• This tour runs rain or shine. Please dress appropriately.
• This tour requires a minimum of four people. If it is canceled because the minimum isn’t met, you’ll be offered a different date/experience or a full refund.

Whether you’re a Vancouver local or this is your first trip to British Columbia, check this Vancouver harbour cruise off your list of day trips and fun things to do in Vancouver.

The UNESCO Biosphere & Bowen Island Boat Tour takes place from Granville Island, Vancouver. VIEW MAP

How To Book Your Experience