B.C.

5 Scenic Cruises Around B.C.

Head out for an adventure on the water: sunset buffets and dancing the night away

By Kirsty Chan /

Credit: Flickr / michellerlee

Set sail in B.C. this summer with a picturesque cruise

There are plenty of ways to take in B.C.’s mountain vistas, cityscapes and rolling vineyards, but for something truly memorable, there’s nothing like enjoying the view from the water. Board one of B.C.’s scenic cruises and kick back and relax. Whether you’re looking for a romantic adventure or a family outing, these cruises are sure to show off the most stunning views in the province.



Credit: Flickr/Ludovic Hirlimann

Harbour Cruises

Harbour Cruises’ Sunset Dinner Cruise is one of the most popular in the city, and for good reason. Cruises run every night from May 1 to October 15, and each excursion lasts for around two and a half hours. The buffet dinner is West Coast-themed, including fresh B.C. salmon, slow-roasted beef sirloin and a selection of sides, appetizers and desserts. The cruise leaves from Canada Place and travels to the North Shore, Stanley Park and more, all as the sun sets behind the mountains. 

Sunset Dinner Cruise – $78.95



Credit: Flickr/Juliana Su

Paddlewheeler Riverboat Tours

Join Paddlewheeler Riverboat Tours for their 25th anniversary and see for yourself why they’ve stood the test of time. Cruise the Fraser River and dine on their buffet dinner on this three-hour adventure. Be sure to watch out for wildlife as you enjoy the tranquil landscape that lies just outside the city. You receive 25 per cent off their regularly scheduled cruises until October as part of their anniversary celebrations.

Sunset Dinner Cruise – $64.95 per adult



Credit: Flickr/Julius Reque

Salsa Cruises

If you want to spice things up a bit, try out Harbour Cruises’ Salsa Cruise. The cruise starts out with a beginner’s salsa lesson to prepare you for a night of dancing. The boat’s three levels are divided up by musical genre, with the first floor playing only salsa, the middle floor a mixture of Latin music  – including merengue, bachata, and more – while the top floor plays a little bit of everything. Singles need not worry, as a dance partner is not required.

Salsa Cruises – $28



Credit: Flickr/Kevin O'Neill

The Lake Lounge

The Lake Lounge Dinner Cruise in Kelowna is the perfect way to take in some of Okanagan Lake’s best views. The cruise goes around City Park, under the William R. Bennett Bridge, past vineyards and dream homes, and then back under the bridge for a view of Kelowna’s city lights. This relaxing trip takes two hours and includes a buffet dinner with a choice between cedar plank salmon or peach barbecue chicken for the entrée. 

Dinner Cruise – $50



Credit: Flickr/sunset-pen

The Casabella Princess

If you find yourself a little farther south on Okanagan Lake, take a ride on Penticton’s Casabella Princess. They run scenic tours daily through the summer, but join them for one of their dinner cruises for the full experience. On Fridays they offer a classy dinner buffet, and on Wednesdays they host a barbecue buffet that’s perfect for the whole family. Parents can enjoy all the Okanagan has to offer with their selection of local wines, beers and specialty drinks while the kids can keep an eye out for the legendary Ogopogo.

Friday Signature Dinner – $54.95, Wednesday BBQ Buffet – $44.95