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Vancouver Cruise Port Parking

Last updated on February 4th, 2024 at 11:32 am

Parking near the cruise port in Vancouver is readily available with multiple options. Passengers can choose from on-site parking or airport lots, providing secure and convenient parking for the duration of their cruise.

Vancouver Cruise Parking At Terminal

Vancouver canada place cruise terminal- offsite parking, cruise planning at this port.

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Cruise Parking in Vancouver – Long Term Lots and Rates 

Downtown Cruise Parking in Vancouver

Going on a Cruise from Vancouver to Alaska!

Looking for a place to park your car in Vancouver for your Alaska cruise? Here is some current information about parking your car near the cruise ship terminals in Vancouver. We have also included information on Vancouver hotels with parking.

1. Alaska Cruise Parking at Canada Place

There is a 2-level parkade at Canada Place for both short term and long term cruise parking. The rates are:

Advantages:

Very convenient, Secure, No reservations needed – just drive up! You can walk to the Canada Place cruise ship terminal – no taxi/shuttle van required!

Please Note:This parking lot is for Alaska cruise departing from Canada Place only.

The lot is operated by WestPark 604-669-7275 

2. Vancouver Hotels with Cruise Parking

There are many Vancouver hotels with cruise parking for before / after Alaska cruise packages that include parking and transfer by shuttle or taxi to the cruise ship terminal.

Pan Pacific Hotel – Parking services available for guests visiting Canada Place.

They have Valet parking with in & out privileges for Hotel Guests ($ 35.01 per night, including taxes) Hourly, short term and long term, cruise ship long term parking is also available. Parking Charges you each time your vehicle exits the parking garage.(no in/out privileges)

Daytime: $ 3.75 per 1/2 hour to a max. of $ 23.00 from 6am- 6pm Evening: $ 3.75 per 1/2 hour to a max. of $ 8.00 up to 6 am 24 Hour: $ 30.00 max.for a 24 hour period

Radisson Hotel Vancouver Airport **Special Promo**

This package includes 14 days of complimentary parking. Extra overnight parking is $10+tax per nite but only applicable when booking the Stop Over Rate - You must fly out or board cruise ship the next day to qualify for rate.

Coast Plaza Hotel & Suites - **Special pre or post cruise packages**

One night accommodations, $25 food and beverage credit for each day of stay for Room Service or The Brasserie Restaurant. Limo transportation to the cruise ship port (Pre-Cruise Package). Taxi transportation from your port to the hotel if a (Post-Cruise Package). Parking for the duration of your stay and cruise.

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Parking at Vancouver Cruise Terminal

Vancouver’s Cruise Ship terminal is right in the middle of downtown. Which is great for access and walkability but may provide some parking challenges. This post has everything you need to know about parking at Vancouver cruise terminal including rates, rules and nearby cheap parking options.

The long term parking at the Vancouver cruise terminal is in Canada Place. It has very recently (mid August 2022) changed management companies so some parking things have changed. It has been taken over by Indigo.

Canada Place and the Indigo parking facility is located at the North end of Howe Street at Canada Place and is accessible 24 hours per day from the Canada Place entrance. 

Canada Place is not just Vancouver cruise port parking. It is a mixed-use facility. It is used by the Vancouver Convention and Exhibition Centre East, the Pan Pacific Hotel, Port Metro Vancouver Cruise Ship Terminal, Fly Over Canada (one of the best things to do in Vancouver I might add), and the World Trade Centre Office Complex.

Vancouver Cruise Terminal Parking Fees

The Vancouver cruise terminal parking fees are in the image below. For a 7 day cruise we paid $247 after all of the taxes.

Short-term Rates for Canada Place Cruise Parking (including taxes): $4.00 each half-hour or portion $23.00 day maximum (6am – 6pm) $9.00 evening maximum (6pm – 6am) $32.00 daily maximum (6am – 6am) $55.00 to park until noon next day

The short term rates obviously would not apply to those of us taking a cruise, but if you were having someone come to meet you who wanted to park, this is what it would cost to park at Canada Place.

The Vancouver cruise ship terminal parking can be reserved in advance. It is probably easiest on the Indigo App.

Important things to Note about Crusie Parking Vancouver:

VANCOUVER CRUISE SHIP TERMINAL PARKING ADDRESS: 999 Canada Place Vancouver, BC V6C 3E1

OVERSIZE VEHICLES: The Canada place Parking lot does not fit oversized vehicles. The Max height for vehicles using the lot is 6’9″

Note that the cruise ship passenger disembarkation pickup point is in the Canada Place parking lot. If you are going to pick up passengers, make sure you are not overweight or you will not be able to get into the lot. There is nowhere to pull over and pick up passengers on the street. There is hotel valet and taxi stopping only.

Where To Stay Near Cruise Ship Parking

If you are driving in the night before your cruise, there are several hotels that are close by. The closest is the Pan Pacific . If you want some other choices, check out the best hotels near the Vancouver cruise ship port. I suggest you park your car in the Canada Place cruise terminal parking and pick a hotel nearby!

Lindsay Nieminen is the creator of UncoveringBC.com. She grew up and still lives in the suburbs of Vancouver with her family. She aims to inspire inform, and educate others about traveling in her home province of British Columbia. She is also the creator of carpediemourway.com  which aims to show parents how to seek out adventure at home or abroad, with their children in tow!

7 thoughts on “Parking at Vancouver Cruise Terminal”

I am on an Alaskan Cruise May 1 to May 6th. How do I book Parking at the pier>

Can I reserve parking from May 6 to May 10, 2023

I wish to secure parking for my Yukon Denali while on a 7 day Alaskan cruise. Could you please help me.

Hi Don you can contact the parking lot here https://indigoneo.ca/en/booking/99911171?utm_source=GMB_listing&utm_medium=organic

We paid $445.00 for a week to park there. Find somewhere else as this is a total rip off.

Vancouver is a bustling city with a thriving transportation network, and parking at the Vancouver terminal is an important consideration for travelers and commuters alike. Whether you’re catching a flight, boarding a cruise ship, or taking a ferry, having a convenient and secure parking option can make your journey much smoother. Here’s some information about parking at the Vancouver terminal.

We are looking for parking from 27th August to 3rd September. I contacted Indigo and they tell me their long term parking is full for these dates and we will need to park in the day facility and chance it as it is a first come first serve basis and it is $55 per day. That is outrageous. I have been doing some searching on the internet and cannot seem to find any other parking in the area. Does anyone have any tips for us? We live in BC and this is why we will be driving to Vancouver to get on the cruise ship.

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Port Metro Vancouver

999 Canada Place Vancouver British Columbia, Canada V6C 2P9 866-856-8080 888-767-8826

Parking Information

The Bell Street Pier garage is available to all cruise passengers. Conveniently located directly across from the cruise terminal, it offers 1,700 spaces of covered, secure parking. Friends and family who pick up or drop off cruise passengers also are encouraged to use the garage.

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Vancouver Cruise Port At Canada Place: The Ultimate Guide

Vancouver is the largest city on the west coast of Canada in the province of British Columbia. Additionally, its cruise terminal at Canada Place, in the heart of Vancouver, ferries  passengers to Alaska , Hawaii, Japan, and California.

Most cruise passengers going to Alaska sail from Vancouver or Seattle. If you are sailing in or out of the Vancouver cruise port, it’s best to add a few extra days. Consequently, you can enjoy all this fantastic city has to offer.

Generally speaking, the Canada Place cruise terminal operates for a short season. The cruise ship season usually runs from April to September or early October.

Alaskan cruises operate during the summer months, from May to September. Should you take a cruise in May , the security and immigration process can be slow as the port often has new staff.

California, Japan, and Hawaii repositioning cruises are scheduled when cruise ships are coming to and from Vancouver for the Alaska season. Two ships can dock on its west side and one on the eastern side. 

The Vancouver cruise port struggles to dock mega-ships since they must pass under the Lionsgate Bridge. Its bridge has a 200-foot clearance which means some ships have to lower their mast to clear the road deck. 

The Norwegian Bliss made history by being the largest cruise ship to dock in Vancouver. The port of Vancouver orchestrated its arrival and departure with low tides. Sometimes those arrival and departures happen in the wee hours of the night.

I may be biased because I live in Vancouver, but the Vancouver sail away is by far one of the most picturesque beginnings of a cruise vacation. Having cruised from Vancouver to Hawaii and other locations six times, you need to savor the sail away on an upper deck.

Where Do Cruise Ships Dock In Vancouver?

The Vancouver cruise port is part of Canada Place in downtown Vancouver. Its unique architecture can be seen from Burrard Inlet, which serves as a commercial port.

Canada Place pier is a recognizable landmark with its five white sails that have topped the building since 1986. It was constructed for Expo 86, which showcased the Canadian city to the world.

Each night from dusk to dawn, the Sails of Light illuminate with seasonal, vibrant colors, displays, and animation.

Canada Place was designed to be multifunctional since the cruise ship season is abridged (May to September). Not only does it have a cruise ship terminal but also a hotel, convention centre, movie theatres, shops, and cafes.

At the end of the pier FlyOver Canada operates a multi-dimensional simulated flight over prominent areas of the country. It makes a great rainy-day activity and a must before embarkation.

Cruise passengers can take an  Alaska cruise from Vancouver, BC,   or Seattle. Americans may choose Seattle because the flights are less expensive, and you do not need a passport. However, cruises from Vancouver offer a spectacular sail-away.

The Vancouver Cruise Port welcomes approximately 1,000,000 passengers a year. While Canada closed its ports for the 2020 and 2021 seasons, 2022 saw a huge increase in passengers as the Alaska season reopened.

The  Vancouver cruise terminal reopened  on April 10, 2022, welcoming Holland America’s Koningsdam. The port also sees mainstream lines, such as Celebrity, Disney, Cunard, Seabourn, and Princess Cruises.

As Alaska cruises gain in popularity, new cruise lines are adding ships to the Vancouver port for Alaska sailings. These include Cunard, Azamara Cruises, and Viking Ocean Cruises.

The Vancouver cruise terminal can accommodate up to four ships a day. However, if there are three to four vessels, expect a slow embarkation as all guests must go through the same immigration and customs line.

The process of boarding can also be slow when the terminal reopens. Exercise patience, as the port could be training new staff or familiarizing themselves with processes they haven’t done in a while.

Getting To The Vancouver Cruise Port

When flying into Vancouver, planes land at Vancouver International Airport (YVR) on Sea Island in Richmond. A taxi ride to the cruise terminal will take approximately half an hour, contingent on traffic.

The cost is CAD 38, as designated by the zone fare. If you’re traveling to a hotel south of Pender Street, you’ll have a slightly lower fare of CAD 34.

My preference for accessing the port is by using “Skytrain”. The rapid transit system has a direct line to downtown Vancouver. The trains are quick, inexpensive, and hassle-free. Furthermore, you never have to worry about rush hour traffic.

Leaving the airport, walk across the road and take the escalator to the right. This escalator ascends to the Skytrain’s departure platform. Here, tickets are purchasable at the self-service machines for a direct route to the Vancouver Waterfront station.

It costs CAD 7.75 to CAD 9 per person (depending on the day and time). The Canada Line provides a direct route from the airport to the Waterfront. It takes 25 minutes, and trains leave approximately every six to seven minutes.

At the Waterfront Station, go up the escalators, exit the building, and turn right. Then, walk about one block to Howe Street and turn right. Canada Place and the Vancouver Cruise Terminal are straight ahead.

The following map shows the directions from Canada Place to the Waterfront Station. However, you can follow it from the Skytrain station to the cruise port.

Additionally, you may even see your cruise ship docked in front of you. To access the cruise terminal, you need to follow the ramp’s sidewalk into the parking area.

Signage clearly marks the route for cruise ship passengers, and there are plenty of people to assist you.

Baggage Storage

Westcoast Sightseeing  offers baggage storage for passengers booked on a cruise. It’s conveniently located at Canada Place. Whether needed before or after a cruise, luggage storage is available for day use from 8 am to 5 pm.

Additionally,  PorterGenie  offers 24/7 luggage storage at many locations throughout the city. Service is fast, zippers are safety-sealed, and their prices are competitive.

Vancouver Cruise Port Parking

If you’re driving to the cruise port, the parking garage offers long-term parking, catering to those on a cruise. Be prepared for sticker shock, as the lot charges CAD 32 a day or CAD 224 for 7 days.

Since this is an expensive option and adds to the total cost of your cruise, you’ll want to avoid Vancouver cruise parking downtown.

The value long-term parking at Vancouver International Airport offers long-term parking for a fraction of the cost. For a 7-day stay, expect to pay CAD 120, plus under CAD 10, for the Skytrain trip to reach downtown.

Prices vary with supply and demand. You’ll get the cheapest price booking far in advance. If you want to know the actual cost, you can get an online quote.

Where To Stay In Vancouver

It’s important to note that Vancouver is the most expensive city in Canada. Downtown hotels are as expensive as vacationing in Miami Beach or New York City.

Making a reservation a year in advance can get you the cheapest price and the most selection. Those coming from the US will benefit from the exchange rate.

Should you try to book a hotel within a few months of your cruise, you may be paying premium rates due to limited availability.

If you are seeking a hotel close to the cruise terminal, the Hotel Fairmont Pacific Rim , Pan Pacific Hotel, and Hotel Fairmont Waterfront  are within steps. However these hotels come with the convenience of being within walking distance of the cruise terminal, but they come with a hefty price tag.

If you are mobility challenged or money is of no concern, the Pan Pacific Hotel  is literally at the cruise ship terminal. When you check out, they will porter your luggage to the cruise terminal.

Staying there allows you to sleep in on embarkation day, check out of your hotel and check in to your cruise ship without leaving the building. Can it be any more convenient?

Sutton Place Hotel , and the Sheraton Vancouver Wall Centre ,  are more economical options. However, they are a cab ride away.

For a budget-friendly stay, the Vancouver YMCA Hotel  offers nice rooms at reasonable prices. Although, it’s not within walking distance of Canada Place.

However, if you are flying in the night before and need immediate sleep, stay in Richmond at  Fairmont Vancouver Airport.  It’s literally in the terminal and offers a luxury stay.

What To Do In Vancouver

Vancouver is a diverse city  on the coast, surrounded by picturesque mountains. Its downtown core offers thriving art, music, and theater scenes. Also, Vancouver has become a foodie heaven with its vast selection of worldly cuisine.

The city has great public transportation, so you do not need a rental car. Furthermore, if you get a rental, you’ll be paying for parking downtown, including at your hotel.

Vancouver’s Stanley Park is renowned for being one of the best urban parks in the world. Why not rent a bike and explore the park by pedal power? You can also explore the park on a trolley, horse carriage, or hop-on hop-off bus.

Stanley Park has a fantastic aquarium, multiple beaches, a sea wall, and totem poles.

The downtown area is easy to explore on foot, by public transit, or by rental bikes. There are plenty of taxis, and the Aquabus provides transportation across False Creek to Granville Island.

From the waterfront, you can walk to Gastown, Vancouver’s oldest neighborhood. Here, the Gastown steam clock delights visitors with its whistling clock, which spouts steam every 15 minutes.

In North Vancouver, the Capilano Suspension Bridge is a tourist favorite. You can access the park by a complimentary shuttle bus from downtown. You can also use the shuttle to reach Grouse Mountain further up Capilano Road.

Grouse Mountain provides fun for the whole family. Once you’ve taken a gondola to the top, you can see two grizzly bears (named Grinder and Coola), watch a lumberjack show, a bird of prey demonstration, and enjoy great views of the city.

While you can use US dollars at most establishments, you may not get a good exchange rate. So, exchange your cash and use Canadian dollars instead.

Where To Eat In Vancouver

Vancouver is known for its multiculturalism. So, whatever your taste buds, you can find it in the downtown area. Dim sum, sushi, Thai, Lebanese, Italian, Chinese, and West Coast Seafood are all readily available.

To kickstart your Alaska cruise, why not enjoy seafood at a patio restaurant on Granville Island? The Sandbar Seafood Restaurant has all your favorites, with fantastic views of False Creek.

The Cactus Club Coal Harbour offers a mix of west coast dining with seafood. Its oceanfront location downtown makes it a great choice. However, expect a long wait during busy times.

For that caffeine kick in the mornings, there’s no better place than Tin Hortons. “Timmy’s,” as the locals call it, makes donuts, fresh sandwiches, soups, and wraps, for those eating on the run.

Embarkation

Every cruise ship embarking from Vancouver stops at a U.S. port, so every passenger needs to go through screening and U.S. Customs and Border Protection. Even if you don’t intend to get off in port, you must still clear customs and immigration.

If you are not traveling with a Canadian or United States passport, you must get an ESTA or Electronic System for Travel Authorization.

ESTA is an automated system that determines visitors’ eligibility to travel to the United States under the Visa Waiver Program (VWP).

The application to get an ESTA is made online. The form is rather lengthy, and you do not need to print out the application once completed.

If you are flying into Canada, Canada has introduced a new entry requirement, known as  eTA or Electronic Travel Authorization, for visa-exempt foreign nationals. Exceptions include U.S. citizens and travelers with valid visas. Like the American ESTA, applications are made online.

Debarkation

When debarking in Vancouver, the process may be slow when there are three vessels in port. Allow 30 minutes or longer to get to the airport. If you’re flying internationally, you DO need to arrive three hours before your flight due to long lines at security, customs, and immigration.

If you disembark within the first 30 minutes, you can usually get a taxi or rideshare quite quickly. Alternatively, you can use the Skytrain again.

However, if you’re in one of the last groups to leave the ship, you could be waiting a while for a taxi or rideshare due to availability. So, if you have an early flight, opt for early debarkation or do self-debarkation instead.

Final Thoughts

I sailed my first cruise to Alaska in 2009 out of Ballantyne Pier. While the commercial pier is closed to cruise vessels, Canada Place cruise ship terminal remains the sole port for those going to Alaska, Hawaii, and beyond.

It’s no secret Vancouver needs a new cruise terminal, one that can accommodate large and meg-ships. Until then, Alaska-bound ships will continue to sail out of Canada Place.

Sunday 27th of August 2023

We are taking a Pacific Coast cruise from Vancouver to San Diego. The first stop is in Victoria, B.C. and then our second stop is in Seattle, Washington. You mentioned in your article that "Every cruise ship embarking from Vancouver stops at a U.S. port, so every passenger needs to go through screening and U.S. Customs and Border Protection." Does this mean that we would clear U.S. Customs in Vancouver and not have to go through U.S. Customs in Seattle even though we will be stopping in Victoria first?

Forever Karen

That is correct. When you board in Vancouver, you will go through US Customs and Border protection at the port, and not have to do it again. Every ship that leaves Vancouver, either goes to Alaska, Hawaii, or down the coast to California. So the US border control has set up a screening area at the Vancouver cruise terminal.

Sunday 11th of June 2023

on return journey ?is the distance from the cruise terminal to the sky train an easy walk with luggage

Thursday 27th of July 2023

@Forever Karen, Hi! Thank you for such a great article. I have this same question. Can you also send me the map?

Janet, it's about 2 blocks and easily walkable with luggage. I've sent you an email with a map.

Monday 8th of May 2023

A very nice overview article. It could be further enhanced by directions to the terminal itself as many, including me the very first time, stood outside the Pan Pacific Hotel on the street and said “where do I go”. Some went the wrong way down into the parade ramp. Some went into the hotel. Some went around the side of Canada place.

You can just go into the convention centre entrance and 100 feet in on your right should be elevators and stairs to the cruise ship terminal level.

Tuesday 16th of May 2023

Thanks for the info. There are several ways to get to the cruise terminal and one of them is through the parkade.

Tuesday 25th of April 2023

Looking for an activity appropriate to kids age 7 and 10, from 5:30 pm to 10 pm. Ideas?

MarySue, You could visit the Aquarium in Stanley Park, go to the Kids Only Market at Granville Island, or visit Science World.

Monday 17th of April 2023

Sounds good. Thanks, Karen.

Privacy Overview

Cruising from Vancouver: Essential 2024 Vancouver Cruise Terminal Info

The Vancouver Cruise Terminal at Canada Place is the largest cruise ship port on Canada’s West Coast.

With its iconic setting under the five 90-foot sails of Canada Place, you’re just minutes away from the cruise of a lifetime – and some of the top Vancouver attractions.

Whether you’re a leaving local or a visitor looking to juice Vancouver for all it’s got in little time, this is my guide for Vancouver cruisers.

Full disclosure : I’ve included some booking links that get us a small commission for each sale. It covers our costs and time spent creating this free resource. We give free custom advice to any Vancouver cruiser who asks – try us if you can’t find what you’re looking for in our Vancouver cruise guide!

• Vancouver Cruise Terminal
• How to Get There
• Luggage Storage
• Shore Tours
• Restaurants
• Things to Do Nearby

Vancouver Cruise Terminal Info

The Vancouver Cruise Terminal (aka the Canada Place Cruise Terminal) is located at Canada Place in the heart of downtown Vancouver .

It’s near two of the biggest tourist hot spots in Vancouver: Gastown and Chinatown .

It’s also striking distance from many of the top things to do in Vancouver , like Stanley Park (and the best Stanley Park tours ), Robson Street , and the Stadium District.

In Vancouver in summer , the cruise ships dock at the three berths at Canada Place which is also where you will find the check-in desks, security screening, and baggage claim.

There are plenty of things to do around the Vancouver cruise ship terminal, so as this guide unfolds, I recommend keeping the following map handy:

Vancouver Cruise Ship Terminal Map

✈️ Heading in from YVR? Check out our guide on shuttles from the cruise port to Vancouver airport .

How to Get to the Vancouver Cruise Terminal

Again, the Canada Place Cruise Terminal is located in the heart of downtown Vancouver at the iconic Canada Place convention centre.

The address is 999 Canada Place .

If you’re coming from your Vancouver hotel , it’s best to take a Vancouver taxi or either Uber or Lyft.

For those driving to the cruise port from other locations in the city, I’ll be getting into the parking shortly.

Getting to the Cruise Terminal from Vancouver International Airport

Of the best ways to get from Vancouver Airport to the cruise terminal , the Skytrain is quick, easy, and relatively inexpensive.

The Canada Line is the Skytrain route that goes from YVR to downtown Vancouver , and it only takes about 25 minutes.

You can purchase tickets at the Skytrain station at the airport, and the fare is $9.35.

That said, if you’re in a group of 3 or more and not looking to get jammed into a commuter train with a hundred other people and their luggage – we suggest a private transfer (info below).

⌛ Looking to save a ton of time? Book a Vancouver Pre-Cruise Tour with Port Drop Off

Private Transfer to Vancouver Cruise Port

There’s no need for extra stress. That’s why booking a private transfer to the Vancouver cruise terminal from your hotel or Vancouver International Airport is always something to consider.

• Up to three passengers with a luxury sedan : $97.82.
• Up to five passengers with a luxury SUV : $108.75.

All packages include your own chauffeurs coming directly to the hotel or airport, luggage handling, private transfer, bottled water, and port/airport taxes.

Canada Place Cruise Terminal Parking

If you’re driving to the cruise terminal, there is underground parking available at Canada Place. The rates are $30/day for regular vehicles .

Bookings are not permitted online, and you’ll have to pay by cash or credit card on-site.

There is also street parking available in the area, but it can be difficult to find a spot, and you could end up paying up to $8.00 an hour.

The cheapest parking near the Vancouver cruise ship terminal is Indigo Lot 247 at the Fairmont Pacific Rim. You can book online for as little as $23.48 a day.

Vancouver Cruise Terminal Luggage Storage

Luggage storage is available at the Canada Place Cruise Terminal if you have any bags that you don’t want to lug around the city.

The luggage storage that’s reserved only for cruise passengers is located right outside Canada Place.

This daytime luggage storage is between 8:00 am to 4:30 pm .

You can book your Vancouver cruise port luggage storage in advance using the button below for just $15.00 a day :

Vancouver Shore Excursions for Cruise Ship Passengers

If you’re looking for the best Vancouver sightseeing tours , there are a few companies that offer short Vancouver city tours for cruise passengers.

These tours typically last around three hours and will take you on a quick, condensed Vancouver itinerary .

Looking for Vancouver shore excursion reviews? You can read reviews and check each tour’s price calendar by clicking the orange button.

Vancouver Hop on Hop Off Bus

Canada Place is the terminus (and beginning) of this all-inclusive Vancouver hop on hop off bus tour that takes the guesswork out of the city.

The tour counts over 15 stops, including Stanley Park, Granville Island , Parq Casino , Science World , Chinatown and Gastown.

This Vancouver cruise port shore excursion covers the most ground, is the most flexible , and has the lowest price .

Pre Cruise City Tour

Get a 10:00 am hotel pickup (with your luggage) and drop off at the cruise port after a 3.5-hour Vancouver city tour with a local guide.

Stops include Granville Island, Stanley Park, Chinatown, and one of Vancouver’s best beaches .

This shore excursion is the best value for money as the 3.5 hours really packs it in. Just know that the tours cap at 30, so it could be more packed than others.

Early Beautiful City Tour

Get an early start with free pickup at any Vancouver hotel, most Vancouver suburbs, and major transit stations for this 8:30 am tour with a local guide.

Two-hour tour includes Gastown, Chinatown, Robson Street, Granville Island, and more.

This pre-cruise Vancouver excursion is noted for its pickup service that extends far into the suburbs, hence the more expensive price tag.

Hotels Near Vancouver Cruise Terminal

Most of the best hotels near the Vancouver Cruise Ship Terminal are in some of the most expensive real estate in the city, so expect high prices.

That said, if you’re looking for something a little cheaper, there are also a few Vancouver hostels and some of the best cheap hotels in Vancouver nearby.

I’ll also be listing some spots a little further away but still downtown – these hotels with shuttle service to Vancouver cruise port can be a godsend.

Fairmont Pacific Rim

The Fairmont Pacific Rim is a luxury hotel in Vancouver that offers stunning views of the city and the mountains. The hotel is located just a few blocks from the Vancouver cruise terminal, making it a great choice for those with an early departure.

If you’re looking for a place to relax before your cruise, the Fairmont Pacific Rim has an outdoor pool and a high-end spa .

The hotel also has several restaurants, including one of Vancouver’s best restaurants that uses ingredients foraged from the Pacific Northwest: Botanist .

Amenities: fitness centre, cocktail patio, business centre, house BMW car service, restaurants, lounge.

The Pan Pacific Hotel

☆☆☆☆ | Area: Canada Place | 300-999 Canada Pl | Skytrain: Waterfront

The Pan Pacific Hotel Vancouver is located right next to the Vancouver Cruise Terminal and makes for a great place to stay before your cruise.

The hotel has an outdoor pool , spa, and a gourmet restaurant with views of the city and harbour .

If you’re looking for something to do before your cruise, the hotel is also conveniently located close to many of Vancouver’s attractions.

Amenities: ensuite rooms, fitness centre, concierge service .

Hotels near Canada Place Cruise Terminal with Shuttle Service

There are a few hotels located near the Vancouver cruise terminal that offer shuttle service to and from the port.

The Ramada Plaza by Wyndham Vancouver Downtown and the Delta Hotels Vancouver Downtown Suit es are both located within a few blocks of the terminal and offer shuttle service.

Restaurants near the Vancouver Cruise Terminal

There are a few different options for food at the Vancouver cruise terminal.

If you’re looking for a quick, casual bite , the restaurants located near the Canada Place Cruise Terminal include local chains like Cactus Club Cafe and White Spot .

But hold it! Know that you’re just a 10-minute walk away from the best restaurant neighbourhood in the city. Making resos to mop up must eat Vancouver food at the best Gastown restaurants is always a good move.

Suggestions: Water Street Cafe , the Flying Pig , or Di Beppe .

Rental Cars Near the Vancouver Cruise Port

If you’re looking to rent a car while you’re in British Columbia, there are a few rental car services located near the cruise port.

Here are a few of the car rental companies near Canada Place Cruise Terminal:

• Avis Rent a Car
• Budget Rent a Car
• Enterprise Rent-A-Car
• Hertz Rent a Car

I don’t want to bog you down with too many choices, so you’ll see I’ve only left a link for Enterprise .

This is because I’ve found that whether I’m renting a car to drive the Sea to Sky Highway to Whistler or just one to get around Vancouver while mine is in the shop, Enterprise delivers great customer service and typically has the best prices .

Things to Do Near the Vancouver Cruise Terminal

There are plenty of things to do near the Vancouver cruise port before your ship sets sail.

• Visit Granville Island : this is Vancouver’s artisan paradise and features the ability to gallery hop and find amazing local souvenirs. It’s also home to Vancouver’s most famous food market.
• Explore Stanley Park : Just a five minute ride from the cruise terminal is arguably the most spectacular urban park in the world. Its old-growth forests, totem poles , and stunning seaside path are a photographer’s dream.
• Shop on Robson Street : Vancouver’s best shopping street, and arguably its most stylish, is just 15 minutes’ walk from the cruise port.
• Visit Capilano Suspension Bridge : This 460-foot long simple suspension bridge in North Vancouver is strung over the Capilano River between two chunks of old-growth forest. Watch the sway!
• Whale Watching : Just minutes from the harbour, you take some of the best whale watching tours in Vancouver to observe orcas, humpback whales, and all sorts of other once-in-a-lifetime Pacific wildlife.
• Walk through Gastown : Vancouver’s most historic neighbourhood is home to compelling indigenous art galleries, value souvenir shops, amazing happy hours, and the city’s most photographable object: The Gastown Steamclock.

Vancouver Cruise Port FAQ

Where is the vancouver cruise terminal.

The Vancouver Cruise Terminal is located at 999 Canada Place in Vancouver, British Columbia.

Which cruise lines operate from Vancouver?

There are a few different cruise lines that operate from Vancouver, including Princess Cruises, Holland America Line, Royal Caribbean, and Celebrity Cruises.

These cruises typically sail to Alaska, but you can also find cruises to the Hawaiian Islands, Mexico, and even Asia.

When is cruise season in Vancouver?

The cruise season in Vancouver runs from May to October. The peak months are June , July, and August when most of the Alaska cruises operate.

If you’re looking for a cheaper cruise, sail in May or September/October when there are fewer people sailing.

What to do in Vancouver before your cruise?

Vancouver is a beautiful city with plenty to see and do. If you have a few days before your cruise, I recommend exploring Stanley Park, going for a walk or bike ride along the seawall, visiting Capilano Suspension Bridge, and checking out Granville Island.

Vancouver is also home to some great restaurants and shopping. Robson Street is a great place to do some shopping and Granville Island has a public market with fresh food and local goods.

How early should I arrive at the Vancouver cruise terminal?

The Vancouver cruise terminal is a busy place, especially in the summer months. It’s best to arrive early by at least two hours to allow plenty of time to check in and get through security.

How do I get a taxi at the Vancouver cruise port?

Getting a taxi at the Canada Place Cruise Terminal terminal is easy. When you exit the terminal, there will be a line of taxis waiting to pick up passengers. You can also call a taxi in advance using Black Top & Checker Cabs at (604) 257-3030.

How much is a taxi from Vancouver International Airport to cruise terminal?

The 30-minute taxi from YVR to the Vancouver cruise ship terminal costs $35.00.

What is the Vancouver cruise port address?

The Canada Place Cruise Terminal address is 999 Canada Pl .

Visiting the City Via the Cruise Port Vancouver?

I’ve tried to break down the Canada Place Cruise Terminal in simplistic terms so you can worry more about enjoying yourself than planning.

That said, I’m only human. If I’ve missed something here about cruising from Vancouver and you need a hand, don’t be afraid to get at me in the comments below.

Related posts

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Moscow (Russia)

Cruise port schedule, live map, terminals, news.

Region Russia Rivers

Local Time 2024-05-02 20:54

Moscow is a Volga River cruise port, Russia's capital and largest city (population over 12,2 million, metro 17 million). Moscow City covers a total area of approx 2610 km 2 (970 mi2). By population, the city is ranked the world's 14th largest. Moscow is one of the Russian Federation's all 3 federal cities - together with St Petersburg and Sevastopol .

Being Russian Federation's capital, Moscow is a major economic, political, scientific and cultural center, as well as Europe's biggest city.

According to Forbes 2013, Moscow has been ranked as the 9th most expensive city in the world by Mercer and has one of the largest urban economies, being ranked as an alpha global city according to Globalization and World Cities Research Network. It is also one of the fastest-growing tourist destinations in the world according to MasterCard Global Destination Cities Index. Moscow is the northernmost and the coldest megacity and metropolis on the Earth. It's home to Ostankino Tower, the tallest free-standing European structure; the Federation Tower, the tallest European skyscraper; and the Moscow International Business Center. 

Moscow is situated on Moskva River in the Central Federal District of European Russia, which makes it the most populated inland city in the world. Moscow city is well known for architecture, particularly its historic buildings like Saint Basil's Cathedral. With over 40% of its territory covered by greenery, it's one of the greenest capitals and major cities in Europe and the world. Moscow is the seat of power of the Russian Government, being the site of Moscow Kremlin, a medieval city-fortress that is now the residence of the President of Russia. Moscow Kremlin and Red Square are among the several World Heritage Sites in the city. 

Moscow has 2 passenger terminals, North River Terminal (Rechnoy vokzal) and South River Terminal. The regular ship routes and cruises along Moskva and Oka rivers are used mostly for entertainment. North River Terminal (1937-built) is currently the main hub for long-range routes along the river. There are 3 freight ports that serve Moscow.

In late-July 2021 the city announced plans to incorporate a fleet (unspecified number) of fully electric passenger ferries into its public transportation network from summer 2022, the goal being to reduce the dependence on cars.

• The boats are designed with length ~22 m (72 ft), passenger capacity 42, modern amenities (Wi-Fi, USB charging points, tables for working commuters), spaces for storing scooters and bicycles.
• Moscow Transport confirmed that two routes (with max daily capacity ~16,000 passengers) have already been mapped out.
• Passengers will be able to pay via bank cards, the city’s Troika card (smart card for travel by any public transportation) or biometric payment cards. Those with monthly/yearly public transit tickets will use the boats at no extra cost.
• The new electric ferry service is up to 5 times faster (in comparison to other city public transports) and ~2 times faster than by car.

Moscow cruise terminal

Moscow's cruise terminal is called North River Terminal or River Station  ("Rechnoy Vokzal" / "речной вокзал").

The terminal was opened in 1937 and is one of 2 passenger terminals (the other being South River Terminal) of the city's river transport. North River Terminal is the main hub for long-range (including cruise) shipping routes. 

South River Terminal (above photo) was opened in 1985.

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Moscow - user reviews and comments

Severnyi Rechnoi Vokzal

• Sokol • 9 min walk

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Severnyi Rechnoi Vokzal - All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go (2024)

• (0.00 mi) The Best
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• (0.01 mi) Hostel Avangard
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• (0.01 mi) Aliye Parusa
• (0.01 mi) Prime Star
• (0.05 mi) Cafe Restaurant U Adama
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• (0.01 mi) Cafe Wildschwein
• (0.01 mi) Cinema Park
• (0.17 mi) Experimentanium Museum of Entertaining Sciences
• (0.16 mi) Mozgva
• (0.20 mi) NEBO

Moscow - Russian Rivers and Waterways Port of Call

Moscow is a wonderful city to visit, and travelers on river ship cruise tours to or from St. Petersburg spend a few days in Moscow . This capital city of Russia was our last port on a river cruise tour, and we had about four days to see most of the highlights. Our first day we did an overview driving tour and rode the subway under the Mockba (Moscow) River to Red Square. The next day we toured the State Armory and the Kremlin.

These photos show some of the other highlights you can see with three or four days in Moscow .

The Northern River Terminal is located on the Moscow Canal in the northwest section of Moscow at the Khimki Reservoir.

Most river cruise ships sailing between Moscow and St. Petersburg use the ship as a hotel while in Moscow. Because of traffic, it's often a long drive into the city, but the sights along the way are interesting, and you only have to unpack once for the river cruise.

View of Downtown Moscow from Sparrow Hills

Sparrow Hills is the best place to get a great panoramic view of Moscow. The Sparrow Hills overlook the Mockba River and are near Moscow State University.

Novodevichy Convent in Moscow

Novodevichy Convent in Moscow was founded in 1524, and was once used as a sort of prison for the unwanted wives and sisters of the Tsars. Peter the Great sent both his first wife and his sister to Novodevichy. Since the convent had such famous nuns, it was very wealthy due to the many donations of the Tsars and their families. At one time in the 1700s, the cloister had over 36,000 serfs working in 36 villages. Novodevichy was ravaged by the French armies in 1812, but the brave nuns saved the buildings by disarming the fuses set to blow them up. The Soviets wanted to make the convent into a museum in the early 1920s, but it was again saved.

Novodevichy also has a cemetery with the graves of many famous Russians, including Nikita Khrushchev, Anton Chekhov, Raisa Gorbachev, and Yuri Nikulin.

View of the Mockba River in Moscow, Russia

The Mockba (Moscow) River runs into the Volga via the 79.5 mile long Moscow Canal.

River ships sailing between Moscow and St. Petersburg on the Baltic Waterways embark and disembark at the Northern River Terminal about an hour's drive from the city. The drive time can vary significantly in length because of the heavy Moscow traffic. The river looks peaceful here, as it winds around the cosmopolitan area of Moscow.

Cathedral of Christ the Redeemer (Cathedral of Christ the Savior) in Moscow

The Cathedral of Christ the Redeemer, also known as the Cathedral of Christ the Savior, is the largest church in Russia, holding 10,000 worshipers.

The original Cathedral of Christ the Savior was built over 44 years to celebrate the 1812 victory over Napoleon. It was completed in 1883. Stalin had the church destroyed in 1931, but it was rebuilt using mostly private funds in 1999. The new church is a replica of the original. Note that it took 44 years the first time and only 4 years the second to complete the church! Isn't modern technology impressive.

One interesting tidbit is that it took three attempts to blow up the church in 1931. Stalin planned to build a huge Palace of the Soviets on the cleared land, but engineers determined that the land was too boggy. In the 60 years intervening, the space was used for a variety of things, including a year-round swimming pool!

Vendors' Market and Ski Jump at Sparrow Hills in Moscow

The panoramic view of Moscow from Sparrow Hills is a stopover for most tour groups, so we were not surprised to see a large number of vendors. The ski jump was a surprise, but Moscow gets very cold in winter, so winter sports are very popular. This ski jump is near Moscow State University and has a great view of the city. Seeing this ski jump reminded me of the famous Holmenkollen Ski Jump in Oslo, which also has a great view of that northern capital city.

Russian Soldiers' Memorial in Victory Park in Moscow

Matryoshka dolls for sale in moscow.

I thought this display of dolls was beautiful! The Matryoshka nesting dolls range in price from just a few dollars to thousands of dollars.

Central Museum of Armed Forces in Moscow, Russia

This small band greeted us at the Central Museum of Armed Forces in Moscow. They played a variety of band music and made us all feel very welcome.

Grand Triumphal Arch Celebrates the Victory Over Napoleon in the War of 1812

This arch looks a little like the Arc de Triomphe in Paris, and it is located near the Victory Park Metro Station in Moscow.

This Grand Triumphal Arch is decorated with the coats of arms from the 48 Russian provinces. To celebrate the victory over France in the war of 1812, it also includes bas-reliefs of the "Expulsion of the French." The arch was originally built in 1834, but has only been on this site since 1968.

It is a little ironic that this arch resembles the Paris Arc de Triomphe , which Napoleon built between 1806 and 1836 to celebrate his French victories.

Moscow Metro Station at the Ploshchad Revolyutsii (Revolution Square)

This station near Red Square has many statues honoring the workers of Russia.

Moscow Metro Station near Victory Park

The Metro in Moscow is one of its shining industrial achievements. Construction on the Metro was begun in 1931 and continues today. The system has over 165 stations and 155 miles of track. Over 9300 trains, traveling sometimes as fast as 56 mph, navigate the huge system each day. Almost 10 million people ride the Moscow Metro every day, which is more than the New York and London systems combined. We found the Metro to be very efficient, with trains arriving every few minutes.

Navigating the Metro system can be somewhat of a problem for non-Russian speaking riders. Most of the signage is in Cyrillic only, and the stations are quite large. Trying to find the correct exit while walking long distances underground can be challenging.

On our cruise tour, we rode the Metro as a group with our program director from near Victory Park under the Mockba River to Red Square. Several of the group ventured out on their own during our time in Moscow, and many rode the Metro. They all returned with stories of getting lost underground, but none seemed the worse for the experience, and they all loved telling the tales.

Red Square in Moscow

Red Square in Moscow is a must-see for visitors to the capital city of Russia.

The Kremlin in Moscow, Russia

The Kremlin is a favorite of Moscow tourists. Inside these walls are buildings for the government of Russia, cathedrals, and the wonderful State Armory museum.

Taras Bulba Restaurant in Moscow

We enjoyed a traditional Ukrainian lunch at this cute restaurant in Moscow before checking in at our hotel.

Buses Wait for Passengers Outside Museum

River cruise tour groups are usually divided into groups for the duration of the tour. Each group had their own bus when touring.

Military Airplanes at the Central Museum of Armed Forces in Moscow, Russia

Although much of the military museum was indoors, there was quite a collection of planes, helicopters, missile launchers, and tanks outside.

Foreign Ministry Building, One of Moscow's Seven Stalinist-Gothic Skyscrapers

Seven skyscrapers with layers giving them a "wedding cake" appearance dot the Moscow skyline. The style is considered Stalinist-Gothic.

Russian and American War Veterans at the Central Museum of Armed Forces

Meeting with some World War II Russian War veterans was a highlight of our day at the Central Museum of Armed Forces in Moscow.

Rocket Launchers and Missiles at the Central Museum of Armed Forces in Moscow

The inside of this museum is particularly impressive, but you will need a guide since all of the signage is only in Russian.

Old Arbat Pedestrian Shopping Area in Moscow

We all enjoyed exploring the shops on this mile-long pedestrian shopping area.

Food prices were high in the tourist attraction, with two small pizzas, two small beers, and a bottle of water at an outdoor cafe costing $40. Many of our group ate at the large McDonalds, where prices were more reasonable.

Female Cosmonaut Model at Star City Cosmonaut Training Center near Moscow

Female cosmonauts play an important role in the Russian space program. In 1963, Valentina Tereshkova from Yaroslavl was the first woman in space.

Souvenir Shop in Old Arbat Shopping Area in Moscow

The area of Old Arbat had many English signs to attract the tourist trade.

Centrifuge at Star City Outside Moscow, Russia

This 18 meter centrifuge is the world's largest. The centrifuge weighs over 30000 tons, and the maximum load is 30 G, but most tests are run at 3 or 4 G.

A centrifuge ride is the first test for a cosmonaut, whose entire training school takes from five to eight years. The centrifuge can simulate the extreme force of gravity that cosmonauts (and astronauts) face when going into space. A centrifuge training session lasts about 30 minutes, and the trainee experiences both the centrifugal force as well as the spin of the pod he/she is riding in. Just typing this makes me a little queasy!

Cosmonaut's Bathroom Facilities on First Space Flights at Star City

Just like in the USA, everyone who visits the Star City cosmonaut training center near Moscow wants to know how cosmonauts "go to the bathroom". They have more sophisticated equipment today, but this contraption from the early space flights is fairly self explanatory.

Star City Tank Used for Cosmonaut Weightlessness Training near Moscow

This 12-meter deep pool is used to simulate weightlessness training. The pool is flooded and the cosmonauts perform repair tasks on the model of the International Space Station. SCUBA diving underwater is very similar to the weightless experience the cosmonauts experience when working in outer space.

Mir Space Station Replica at Star City near Moscow

The original Mir disintegrated when it fell to earth in 2001. Mir, which means peace in Russian, was launched in 1986.

Marvel Paull with Statue of Yuri Gagarin at Star City near Moscow

Yuri Gagarin was the first man in space, and the Star City Cosmonaut training center was named after him in 1968.

River Cruise Passengers with Yuri Onufrienko, Russian Cosmonaut at Star City

In case you can't tell, Yuri is the one in the middle. My famous traveling mother, Marvel Paull, is on the left and Dick, a cruise friend is on the right.

A highlight of our day in Star City was a visit with Yuri Onufrienko , a Russian cosmonaut who spent extended time in space at the Mir space station in 1996 and the International Space Station in 2001-2002. Yuri patiently took many questions from our small inquisitive group.

Cosmonaut Space Suit at Star City near Moscow

Cosmonauts sit in this position on take off. Thanks to Jerry G. for the tip about the sign. It says, "Don't touch!"

Stained Glass Window at Star City near Moscow

Program directors at farewell dinner in moscow.

After 16 days of discovery, learning, and fun, we had a farewell dinner with the six Program Directors - Evgeny, Olga, Vladimir, Svetlana, Violetta, and Marina - in Moscow.

The Kremlin is a triangular, walled citadel in the center of Moscow. The Kremlin is considered by most to be the heart of the city. First conceived in the 12th century, the Kremlin (which means fortress) was expanded by Tsar Ivan III (Ivan the Great) during the 15th century. His architects designed the magnificent Cathedral of the Assumption and the Faceted Palace, and the Kremlin was an interesting mix of both Russian and Renaissance styles. During the Soviet time of the 1930s, many of the Kremlin buildings were destroyed or vandalized, and the complex remained closed to the public until 1955.

Today the Kremlin is home to the Russian President and his administration. Many buildings are open to the public, but you may need to be with a guide (check in advance).

I visited the Kremlin when in Moscow on a Russian Waterways cruise tour from St. Petersburg.

The Kremlin was also one of the 21 finalists for the New Seven Wonders of the World.  

Red Square in Moscow, Russia

Red Square's name has nothing to do with Communism or Soviet Russia. The old Russian word for "beautiful" and "red" was the same; the square was supposed to be called "Beautiful Square". Red Square has been the center of Moscow activity since the 16th century when the Tsar cleared the area and allowed vendors, shoppers, and businesses to fill the square. Today this square is surrounded by the Moscow Kremlin, the State Historical Museum, GUM Shopping Mall , and St. Basil's Cathedral .

Many of the important events of the last three hundred years in Russia have been marked by parades or demonstrations in Red Square. Anyone who enters Red Square will have memories from TV or movie reels of this magnificent public square. Those of us who grew up during the Cold War era can remember the parades of soldiers, tanks, and other armaments past Lenin's Tomb just outside the Kremlin Wall. The World War II generation remembers Red Square as the site of a huge victory celebration at the end of the war.

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