SeaBus Vancouver
A scenic ferry ride connecting downtown Vancouver to North Vancouver, offering stunning city skyline and mountain views.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer commuters, more space
SeaBus Vancouver
Best Time
Fewer commuters, more space
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A scenic ferry ride connecting downtown Vancouver to North Vancouver, offering stunning city skyline and mountain views.
"The SeaBus offers breathtaking views and a convenient, affordable way to explore Vancouver's waterfront."
🎯 Scenic Commute
Enjoy the stunning Vancouver skyline and mountain views from the SeaBus deck.
💳 Easy Fare Payment
Tap your credit card or phone for quick boarding. Compass cards offer savings for frequent riders.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Panoramic City Views
Onboard the SeaBus
Enjoy breathtaking, unobstructed views of the Vancouver skyline and North Shore mountains as you glide across the water.
Lonsdale Quay Market
North Vancouver terminal
A vibrant hub with diverse food vendors, artisan shops, and stunning waterfront views. Perfect for a snack or souvenir hunt.
Waterfront Station
Downtown Vancouver terminal
An architecturally pleasing station that serves as a key transit hub, offering easy access to the SeaBus and SkyTrain.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Seamless Transit to North Vancouver
Fare Options & Payment
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Scenic Commute
Enjoy the stunning Vancouver skyline and mountain views from the SeaBus deck.
💳 Easy Fare Payment
Tap your credit card or phone for quick boarding. Compass cards offer savings for frequent riders.
🚲 Bike-Friendly Travel
Cyclists can use wider gates and designated spots at the back of the SeaBus.
🛍️ Lonsdale Quay Market
Explore diverse food stalls and shops upon arrival in North Vancouver.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Scenic Commute
Enjoy the stunning Vancouver skyline and mountain views from the SeaBus deck.
💳 Easy Fare Payment
Tap your credit card or phone for quick boarding. Compass cards offer savings for frequent riders.
🚲 Bike-Friendly Travel
Cyclists can use wider gates and designated spots at the back of the SeaBus.
🛍️ Lonsdale Quay Market
Explore diverse food stalls and shops upon arrival in North Vancouver.
🚌 Bus Connections
Seamless bus connections from Lonsdale Quay to explore more of North Vancouver.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Travelers praise the SeaBus for its scenic views and efficient connection between downtown Vancouver and North Vancouver. It's considered a cost-effective and enjoyable way to experience the city's waterfront. Some find it crowded during peak commute times, but overall, it's a highly recommended transit option for both locals and visitors.
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The SeaBus departs from Waterfront Station in downtown Vancouver. Follow the signs within the station to reach the SeaBus terminal. It's a central hub connecting to the SkyTrain.
Enter Waterfront Station and follow SeaBus signs. Use the elevator to reach the lower level with your bike, and use the extra-wide gate for boarding. Bikes are stored at the back of the vessel.
Yes, several bus routes, like the 228 and 229, go directly to the SeaBus terminal at Lonsdale Quay.
The SeaBus takes you from downtown Vancouver to Lonsdale Quay in North Vancouver. From there, you'll need to take a bus (like the 236) to reach Grouse Mountain.
The SeaBus journey across the Burrard Inlet typically takes about 12-15 minutes.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Fares are zone-based. A single trip on the SeaBus usually falls into the one-zone fare. Check TransLink's website for current pricing, as it can vary.
Yes, you can typically pay with cash at the Compass vending machines located near the SeaBus terminal entrance.
No, a Compass Card is not mandatory. You can tap your credit card, debit card, or mobile payment device directly at the fare gates.
TransLink offers DayPasses that can be loaded onto a Compass Card and cover travel across all zones, including the SeaBus.
The SeaBus operates frequently throughout the day and into the evening. Check the official TransLink schedule for specific operating hours, as they can vary by day.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Lonsdale Quay Market offers a variety of food vendors, artisan shops, and cafes. It's a great spot to grab a bite or find unique souvenirs.
The SeaBus offers stunning panoramic views of the Vancouver skyline, Stanley Park, and the North Shore mountains. The best views are often from the outer decks.
The SeaBus can get crowded during peak commuting hours on weekdays. Weekday afternoons and weekend mornings tend to be less busy.
Absolutely! The SeaBus provides excellent vantage points for photography, capturing the city's beauty from the water.
The SeaBus is a commuter ferry operated by TransLink, connecting downtown Vancouver to North Vancouver. BC Ferries operates larger vessels for longer routes to Vancouver Island and other coastal destinations.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, Lonsdale Quay Market has a diverse range of food vendors offering everything from fresh seafood to international cuisine.
You can't get seafood on the SeaBus itself, but Lonsdale Quay Market in North Vancouver has excellent seafood restaurants and stalls.
Visitors often rave about the pies from Alamo Pie Shop and the various soups from Stock Market Soups at Lonsdale Quay.
📸 📸 Photography
Capture the iconic Vancouver skyline, the North Shore mountains, and the bustling waterfront. The journey offers unique perspectives of the city.
Golden hour (shortly after sunrise or before sunset) offers beautiful lighting. Clear days provide the best visibility of the mountains.
Generally, personal photography is allowed. Be mindful of other passengers and avoid intrusive filming.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider combining your SeaBus trip with a visit to attractions on the North Shore. Grouse Mountain, accessible by bus from Lonsdale Quay, offers activities like the Peak Chalet and wildlife encounters that are great for children. The scenic views from the SeaBus itself are also a big hit with younger travelers, providing a memorable part of the day.
🚶 Budget Travelers
Once in North Vancouver, explore Lonsdale Quay Market for affordable eats, and utilize the extensive bus network for further exploration. Many of the best views and experiences in Vancouver don't require a hefty price tag, and the SeaBus is a prime example of this.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Aim for a seat near a window or step out onto the deck (weather permitting) for the best angles. The movement of the ferry adds a dynamic element to your shots. Don't forget to capture the architecture of Waterfront Station and the bustling atmosphere of Lonsdale Quay Market as well.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Navigating the SeaBus System
+1Getting to the SeaBus is straightforward. From downtown, Waterfront Station is the primary departure point, serving as a major hub for both the SeaBus and the SkyTrain. If you're arriving by SkyTrain, simply follow the clear signage towards the SeaBus terminal. For those with bicycles, specific wide gates and designated areas at the rear of the ferry are available, ensuring a smooth boarding process.
The SeaBus is more than just transportation; it's an experience. The short, approximately 12-15 minute journey offers stunning panoramic views of the Vancouver skyline, the surrounding mountains, and the Burrard Inlet. This makes it a favorite for photographers and anyone wanting to soak in the beauty of the region.
Fares and Payment Options
For those planning to use public transit extensively during their visit, purchasing a Compass Card might be beneficial. These reloadable cards can be obtained at Compass vending machines located at SeaBus terminals and SkyTrain stations. While there's a small, refundable deposit for the card itself, it can offer a slight discount compared to tapping with a credit card, especially if you plan multiple journeys. The vending machines accept both cash and card for purchasing and loading value onto your Compass Card.
It's worth noting that fare prices can change, so it's always a good idea to check the official TransLink website or app for the most up-to-date fare information before your trip. This ensures you're prepared and can choose the payment method that best suits your travel needs.
Exploring North Vancouver from Lonsdale Quay
Beyond the market, Lonsdale Quay serves as an excellent starting point for exploring more of North Vancouver. Numerous bus routes connect from the terminal, providing easy access to attractions like Grouse Mountain, the Capilano Suspension Bridge, and the charming neighborhoods of the North Shore. For instance, the 236 bus can take you directly to Grouse Mountain, a popular destination for hiking and scenic views.
Many travelers find that hopping on the SeaBus is a seamless way to experience a different side of Vancouver. It offers a break from the urban bustle of downtown and opens up opportunities for outdoor adventures and exploring local markets, making it a well-rounded addition to any Vancouver itinerary.
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