Vancouver’s waterways offer fantastic paddling opportunities right in the heart of the city and beyond. The easiest starting point is False Creek, where 3-hour guided tours provide close-up views of the city skyline and Science World. For a more immersive experience, the day trips to Howe Sound deliver pristine wilderness and reliable wildlife sightings. We love Vancouver Water Adventures’ Gulf Islands tour for its expert guides and frequent seal and whale encounters.
For beginners, Deep Cove Kayak‘s intro tours perfectly balance instruction with exploration. More experienced paddlers should consider the Bowen Island circumnavigation – it’s a challenging full-day paddle with incredible viewpoints and quiet coves.
Let’s explore the top kayak and canoe tours Vancouver has to offer.
Key Points
- A 3-hour Granville Island kayak tour suitable for ages 10+ with adult supervision, offering a moderate fitness level experience for up to 36 travelers.
- Snorkeling with seals, sea lions, and whales in Howe Sound, with options for non-swimmers to join via kayaking or paddleboarding.
- Private kayaking excursions on Levette Lake, including pickup from downtown Vancouver, lunch, and free cancellation/rescheduling up to 24 hours in advance.
- A morning guided kayak tour in Howe Sound to spot marine wildlife like seals and bald eagles, suitable for most travelers with no prior experience.
- A 7-hour combined kayaking and hiking tour in Deep Cove, visiting landmarks like the Lions Gate Bridge and offering free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
3 Hour Kayak in Vancouver With Coffee on the Beach
A 3-hour kayak tour in Vancouver allows visitors to explore the scenic False Creek waterway.
The tour starts at 11:30 AM on Granville Island, where you will be provided with a kayak, paddle, and life vest.
During the 3-hour adventure, kayakers can enjoy coffee or tea on the beach.
The tour has a maximum capacity of 36 travelers and isn’t wheelchair accessible.
While a moderate fitness level is required, the experience isn’t recommended for those with back problems.
With a starting price of $108.51 per person and free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, this kayak tour offers an excellent way to experience Vancouver’s beautiful waterfront.
Read our full review: 3 Hour Kayak in Vancouver With Coffee on the Beach Review
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Snorkeling Seals Paddling Sightseeing Boat Tour in Vancouver
Seeking a more immersive encounter with Vancouver’s marine life? The Snorkeling Seals Paddling Sightseeing Boat Tour offers an unforgettable 3-hour adventure.
Departing from Howe Sound, this guided tour immerses you in the stunning PNW Expeditions. Snorkel alongside seals, sea lions, and even whales, while enjoying the rugged coastline, lush forests, and towering mountains.
Non-swimmers can opt for kayaking or paddleboarding. The tour includes wetsuits, snorkeling gear, and light refreshments.
With a 5/5 rating from previous guests, this small-group experience prioritizes safety and environmental protection, making it suitable for all skill levels.
At €74.59 per person, it’s a must for nature enthusiasts seeking an up-close look at Vancouver’s remarkable wildlife.
Read our full review: Snorkeling Seals Paddling Sightseeing Boat Tour in Vancouver Review
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Vancouver Outdoors – Levette Lake Kayaking (Squamish)
Venture out to Levette Lake in Squamish, where a private kayaking excursion awaits nature enthusiasts.
This all-inclusive experience provides 2 kayaks, life jackets, and waterproof bags for a group of up to 4 people. Enjoy a provided lunch, snacks, and beverages as you paddle the calm waters, surrounded by the stunning Squamish scenery.
The tour includes useful amenities like a cooler, BBQ, and camping gear, making it a well-equipped outdoor adventure.
Pickup is available from downtown Vancouver, with an additional fee for locations outside the city center.
This flexible booking allows for free cancellation and rescheduling up to 24 hours in advance, ensuring a hassle-free experience.
Read our full review: Vancouver Outdoors – Levette Lake Kayaking (Squamish) Review
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Vancouver: Smooth Classic Kayak Tour
This 3-hour Vancouver: Smooth Classic Kayak Tour offers a chance to explore False Creek, where participants can view the city’s famous landmarks and learn about its history.
The calm morning waters provide a relaxing atmosphere before the daily hustle, and there’s a possibility of spotting local wildlife.
Guided by experienced instructors, the tour includes a kayak, paddle, life jacket, and wetsuit.
While not suitable for pregnant women, those over 300 lbs, or individuals with mobility issues, the tour is open to participants aged 16 and up for single kayaks, or 10 and up with an adult in a double kayak.
With an overall rating of 4.5/5 and high scores for guide quality and value, this tour is a great way to experience Vancouver’s waterways.
Read our full review: Vancouver: Smooth Classic Kayak Tour Review
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Morning Kayak & Seal Cruise
In the morning, travelers can embark on a guided kayaking tour in Howe Sound, exploring the scenic waterways and seeking opportunities to spot marine wildlife such as seals and bald eagles.
The tour includes the use of kayaks or stand-up paddleboards, and no prior experience is needed, making it suitable for most travelers. With a maximum group size of 20, the tour offers an intimate and personalized experience.
After the adventure, guests can relax with tea or coffee. While the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, it’s conveniently located near public transportation.
Travelers can enjoy the flexibility of free cancellation and unlimited rescheduling up to 24 hours before the experience.
Read our full review: Morning Kayak & Seal Cruise Review
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Kayaking Vancouver Tour
Travelers can embark on a comprehensive 7-hour kayaking and hiking tour that showcases the natural beauty of Deep Cove and the surrounding areas of Vancouver.
The tour includes 30 minutes at the Deep Cove Kayak Centre, 3 hours of kayaking in the peaceful waters, and a 1.5-hour hike to the stunning Quarry Rock.
Participants will also visit Panorama Park, Lynn Canyon Park, and pass by iconic landmarks like the Lions Gate Bridge.
The tour is priced at $390.85 per person and offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
Guests can book their spot without immediate payment and enjoy snacks, soda, WiFi, and private transportation throughout the experience.
Read our full review: Kayaking Vancouver Tour Review
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The Gulf Islands: Kayak Outing With Seaplane Experience
The Gulf Islands: Kayak Outing With Seaplane Experience
For $632.90 per person, you can enjoy an 8-hour kayaking adventure with a seaplane flight to Salt Spring Island. The tour’s group size is limited to 10 people, and you can reserve your spot without upfront payment.
During the 4-hour kayaking experience, you’ll paddle along rock formations and remote beaches, observing diverse wildlife like bald eagles and seals. The trip includes kayaking equipment, round-trip seaplane fare, and hotel pickup.
However, it’s not suitable for wheelchair users, pregnant women, or individuals over 200 lbs. With an overall rating of 4.8/5, this unique experience offers a chance to explore the stunning Gulf Islands and learn about the local ecosystems.
Read our full review: The Gulf Islands: Kayak Outing With Seaplane Experience Review
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Recap
Vancouver offers a wealth of exhilarating canoe and kayak experiences. From peaceful paddles on tranquil lakes to up-close encounters with marine life, there’s something for every outdoor enthusiast. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced paddler, you’ll find a tour that caters to your interests and skill level. With stunning natural scenery as the backdrop, these excursions provide the perfect opportunity to connect with the region’s stunning waterways.