Vancouver: Boat to Bowen Island on UNESCO Howe Sound Fjord

Horseshoe Bay, Vancouver, Vancouver



The Howe Sound Unesco World Heritage Fjord consists of many amazing things you will experience. Seal Colonies, The Tantalus Mountain Range, Glaciers, Bald Eagles, and of course a visit to Bowen Island

Vancouver Boat Tour to Bowen Island

This 4-hour boat tour departs from Vancouver, ideal for nature lovers and wildlife enthusiasts seeking a close encounter with Howe Sound and Bowen Island.

Highlights

  • Visit Howe Sound UNESCO World Heritage Fjord
  • Stop at Bowen Island with included beer, wine, specialty coffee, or ice cream
  • Experience Howe Sound seal colonies up close
  • Explore Lighthouse Park and its protected forests
  • View 1,500-year-old coastal temperate rainforest in the Tantalus Mountains

Description

Explore Vancouver, Bowen Island, and the surrounding Howe Sound area on a guided 4-hour boat tour designed to showcase key natural and cultural sights. Journey through the UNESCO Biosphere Reserve to visit two seal colonies and experience the local wildlife.

On Bowen Island, enjoy more than an hour to explore Snug Cove, where you can redeem your included choice of coffee, beer, wine, or ice cream at select local establishments. This stop allows time to browse shops and soak in the island’s atmosphere.

Your local boat captain will share stories, point out waterfront homes, and bring you close to seal colonies, ensuring an informative and intimate experience aboard comfortable Zodiacs for wildlife viewing.

The tour features panoramic views of the world’s southernmost glacial fjord, a nationally significant lighthouse, and a cruise through 182 acres of pristine old-growth temperate rainforest, highlighting the area’s unique natural heritage.

Includes

  • Transport
  • Guide
  • Safety equipment
  • Stop at Bowen Island with beer, wine, specialty coffee, or ice cream included

Excludes

  • Gratuities
  • Swimwear
  • Towel
  • Sunscreen

Important Information

  • This tour operates rain or shine
  • Minimum participant height is 4 feet

Cancellation Policy

Cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

For the best experience, dress in layers and bring a waterproof jacket. Book early to secure your preferred departure time, especially during peak seasons.

Frequently Asked Questions

The 4-hour tour includes a boat ride to Bowen Island, visits to seal colonies, a stop at Lighthouse Park, and complimentary beer, wine, specialty coffee, or ice cream.
The boat departs from downtown Vancouver, with exact departure points available upon booking or on the tour operator’s website.
Yes, the tour offers opportunities to see Howe Sound seal colonies and coastal wildlife along the fjord.
Yes, the tour is family-friendly and suitable for all ages interested in nature and coastal scenery near Vancouver.
The entire guided experience lasts about 4 hours, including the boat ride and time on Bowen Island.
Highlights include the UNESCO Howe Sound fjord, Lighthouse Park’s protected forests, and the coastal temperate rainforest in the Tantalus Mountains.
Drinks such as beer, wine, specialty coffee, or ice cream are included during the Bowen Island stop, but you may bring additional snacks if desired.
Check the tour provider’s website for current availability and seasonal schedules for the Howe Sound fjord tour from Vancouver.
The tour gets close enough to observe the seal colonies safely without disturbing their natural habitat.
Yes, the stop on Bowen Island allows some free time to explore key spots like Lighthouse Park before returning to Vancouver.

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