UNESCO Biosphere & Bowen Island Boat Tour

An 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, visiting the Lighthouse Park, Horseshoe Bay, a thriving seal colony, and the rest of the fjord.

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 travel 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. In contrast to larger cruises and other boat tours in Vancouver, the Zodiac boats are fast, nimble and limited to 12 guests making for a more intimate experience.

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 along Gambier Island, enjoying the Coastal Temperate Rain Forest as you watch for bald eagles, sea lions, porpoises and much more wildlife.

Whether you’re a Vancouver local or this is your first trip to British Columbia, check this unique boat tour to the UNESCO Biosphere Reserve and Bowen Island off your bucket list of fun things to do in Vancouver.

• 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.
• Learn interesting stories from your knowledgeable, entertaining guide about West Vancouver and Howe Sound, including local history, and unique geological facts.

• 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.

• 4 hours

• May - October with tours daily *
  *Subject to availability.

• Departure is from Granville Island.
• Maximum capacity is 12 passengers per boat.
• Minimum height requirement to participate is 4 feet.
• Children under 18 must be accompanied by a paying adult.
• Not recommended for participants with back problems or neck injuries, recent surgery or pregnancy.
• This tour runs rain or shine. Please dress appropriately.
• Tour guide gratuities are not included, optional and always appreciated.

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

How To Book Your Experience