The Port of Vancouver's Canada Place Cruise Terminal is one of the most beautiful cruise terminals in the world — shaped like a sailing ship with billowing white sails, jutting into Burrard Inlet with mountain views in every direction. It serves as the primary Canadian departure point for Alaska cruises.
Vancouver itself is consistently ranked among the world's most livable and beautiful cities. Stanley Park, Granville Island, Gastown, and Whistler are all nearby. Arriving early to explore Vancouver before your Alaska cruise is one of the best pre-cruise experiences available anywhere.
What's New for 2026
- 🚢 Alaska cruise season from Vancouver runs May through September — itineraries cover the Inside Passage, Glacier Bay, and one-way Anchorage sailings
- 🇨🇦 US passengers need a valid passport to enter Canada — a Nexus card or WHTI-compliant document is also accepted
- 🚇 The Canada Line SkyTrain connects YVR airport directly to downtown Vancouver in 25 minutes
Hot Tip
Take the Canada Line SkyTrain from YVR airport — it drops you at Waterfront Station steps from Canada Place. No rideshare needed and it costs just $4.45. Much easier than a taxi in downtown Vancouver traffic.Port of Vancouver, British Columbia – Quick Facts
Port of Vancouver, British Columbia Cruise Terminals
Know your terminal before you arrive — each serves different cruise lines.
Canada Place is one of the most iconic cruise terminals in the world — the white sail-shaped roof is a Vancouver landmark. The terminal is in the heart of downtown Vancouver.
Getting to Port of Vancouver, British Columbia
Transportation options from nearby airports, train stations and downtown.
From Vancouver Airport (YVR)
Vancouver International Airport is 11 miles (35 minutes) southwest of Canada Place. Served by Air Canada, WestJet, Delta, American, United, and Alaska Airlines.
Canada Line SkyTrain ~$9 CAD · Taxi zone fare ~$36 CADCanada Line SkyTrain
The Canada Line SkyTrain connects YVR directly to Waterfront Station beside Canada Place in under 30 minutes, departing every 4–6 minutes. The most convenient and affordable option.
~$9 CAD · Under 30 minutes · Every 4–6 minTaxi and Rideshare
Taxis from YVR operate on a zone fare system — Canada Place is approximately $36 CAD. Yellow Cab, Vancouver Taxi, and Black Top and Checker Cabs all serve the port. Uber is also available.
Zone fare ~$36 CAD from YVRFrom Seattle by Coach or Train
Quick Shuttle offers service from Seattle-Tacoma to Canada Place (about 6 hours with stops). Amtrak runs from Seattle King Street Station to Vancouver Pacific Central (about 3.5 hours), then a short taxi to the port.
Quick Shuttle or Amtrak from SeattlePlan Your Visit
Everything you need for a smooth departure from Port of Vancouver, British Columbia.
Parking
On-site garages connect directly to your terminal. Off-site lots offer free shuttles at lower daily rates. Hotel+park packages can be the best value of all.
See Parking Options →Hotels Near the Port
Downtown Vancouver has world-class hotels within walking distance of Canada Place. Coal Harbour, the West End, and Gastown are all excellent neighborhoods to ba…
See Hotels →Shore Excursions
Book shore excursions before you board for best availability and pricing. Day trips, city tours, snorkelling, and more departing from Port of Vancouver, British Columbia.
See Excursions →Things To Do
Vancouver consistently ranks among the world's most beautiful and livable cities. 🌲 Stanley ParkA 1,000-acre old-growth rainforest minutes from downtown. The…
See Things To Do →Port of Vancouver, British Columbia – Frequently Asked Questions
Everything cruise passengers ask before sailing from Port of Vancouver, British Columbia.
Do US citizens need a passport to cruise from Vancouver?
Yes — a valid US passport is required to enter Canada. A Nexus card or other WHTI-compliant document is also accepted. Make sure your passport is valid for at least 6 months beyond your cruise return date.
How do I get from Vancouver Airport to Canada Place?
The Canada Line SkyTrain is the best option — it runs directly from YVR to Waterfront Station, steps from Canada Place, in 25 minutes for $4.45 CAD. Rideshare from YVR takes 25–35 minutes and costs $40–$55 CAD.
Which cruise lines sail from Vancouver?
Holland America and Princess have the largest Alaska presence in Vancouver. Norwegian, Celebrity, and Royal Caribbean also sail from Canada Place. One-way Alaska sailings (Vancouver to Anchorage or vice versa) are very popular.
When is Alaska cruise season from Vancouver?
Alaska sailings from Vancouver run May through September. Peak is June through August. One-way Alaska cruises (Southbound or Northbound) are very popular and often sell out a year in advance.