Cruise to a Memorable Afternoon on Vancouver’s North Shore

When your cruise starts or ends in Vancouver, you may not realize you are only minutes away from one of the most scenic and adventure-packed spots in all of Canada. Whether you have 2 hours or 4 to kill, a visit to Vancouver’s North Shore adds an exciting “upgrade” to your cruise vacation.

It’s easy to get to the North Shore from Canada Place where all cruise ships dock. Waterfront Station is right next door, which connects you right to the Seabus, where sailings leave every 15 minutes, during peak hours. Just 12 minutes across the beautiful Burrard Inlet, you’ll find yourself at Lonsdale Quay where public and private transportation is available to take you anywhere you want to go. Or go on foot to explore the vibrant Shipyards and Lower Lonsdale neighbourhoods, mere steps away.

Alternatively, a short Uber or Lyft ride can take you across the stunning Lions Gate Bridge and have you on Vancouver’s North Shore in a mere 15-25 minutes.

2 Hour Itinerary

For a short trip, you’ll likely want to remain close to the Lonsdale Quay SeaBus station on the north side; which is great because this area contains the North Shore’s most vibrant neighbourhood, The Shipyard District.

Photo Courtesy of @thefoodiecarguy

Explore The Shipyards along the scenic boardwalk with iconic views of both downtown Vancouver and the towering Coast Mountains. Here you’ll find restaurants, cafes, outdoor spaces and playgrounds, as well as The Quay Market and Food Hall with its locally made food, drink and artisan offerings.

Photo courtesy of @theshipyardscnv

A short walk up from The Shipyards will take you to Lower Lonsdale where you can continue shopping or duck into one of the amazing restaurants offering exclusive deals to cruise ship passengers. Fish and chips, tacos, pizza and pasta – whatever you’re hankering for!

With a full belly, head over to The Polygon Gallery where admission by donation puts you up close and personal with some of the world’s most celebrated photography in an equally impressive landmark building by the water.

Before heading back downtown, treat yourself at Welcome Parlour back at The Shipyards with a scoop or two of the signature small-batch authentic ice cream they have been churning around these parts since 1909.

4 Hour Itinerary

If you find yourself with a little more time on your hands, lucky you. It’s quick and easy to venture further out into some unique and absolutely picturesque neighbourhoods that make Vancouver’s North Shore the jewel of British Columbia.

Start with a visit to the Capilano Suspension Bridge Park to experience the thrill of swinging out over rushing rapids into an enchanted forest where you can walk among the treetops and learn all about the past, present and future of this spectacular natural setting. An Uber or Lyft can have you here in 20 minutes from Canada Place, or you can take public transportation on TransLink Bus #236 direct from the Seabus Terminal at Lonsdale Quay.

Photo courtesy of @capilanosuspensionbridge

From there, head over to cozy and quaint Edgemont Village, either on a cool 18-minute walk through one of the North Shore’s most charming suburban areas or on the #246 Bus. Here you’ll find a beautiful mountain town with one-of-a-kind local shops, artisans, markets and specialty boutiques, as well as cafes and restaurants to grab a well-deserved bite to eat. Be sure to have your Vancouver’s North Shore Souvenir Button & Discount Card with you to enjoy exclusive savings throughout the Village.

Photo courtesy of @g_americane

When it’s time to head back, leave a little time to enjoy a beverage at The Shipyards on the patio at The Brewyard, your one-stop shop for the best of the North Shore’s world-renowned craft breweries, distilleries and wineries.

Make the most of your time in Canada between sailings with a visit to Vancouver’s North Shore. Start dreaming and plan your trip today.