Relaxing Before and After Cruise Activities in Vancouver

May 2, 2018

5 min read

Large cruise ship sailing in a harbor with a city skyline and another docked cruise ship in the background under a clear sky.

It is officially cruise ship season in Vancouver! Before or after your cruise, you may have some time to explore the city, but want to relax and not stray too far. And if you’re just coming off your cruise, you’ll want to shake off those sea legs. As one of the most cruise passenger-friendly cruise terminals in the world, we’ve got you covered!

Pamper Yourself

Whether it’s a mani-pedi, relaxing massage, or a facial, a spa is the best place to relax before or after your cruise. Vancouver is home to many of the best spas in Canada, and most are located in the Downtown hotels close to the cruise ship terminal – which is very convenient for you!

With unique only in BC treatments like the Pacific Rim Body Buffer at Fairmont Pacific Rim’s Willow Stream Spa and the Discover Vancouver pampering package from Rosewood Hotel Georgia’s Sense Spa, our spas are top-notch. If you’re looking for something incredibly close to the cruise ship terminal and happen to be staying at the Pan Pacific Hotel, Spa Utopia is right there for you. Click here for a list of our world-class spas so you can book in advance!

Outdoor lounge area with modern round canopy chairs and cushioned seating on a rooftop with city buildings in the background.

Have Some Fun

Vancouver is home to some of the best attractions in the Pacific Northwest, including the magnificent Stanley Park. Perfect for all ages, you won’t go wrong with any of these activities!

Vancouver Aquarium – Otters and dolphins and fish, oh my! Located in Stanley Park, just minutes away from downtown, the aquarium is a must-see. With over 50,000 creatures and top-notch educational exhibits, this is an excellent way to spend your afternoon.

Sea otter floating on water holding a sea urchin with four more sea urchins on its belly.

Stanley Park Horse-Drawn Tour – Visiting Stanley Park is one of Vancouver’s truly unique experiences, and with a horse-drawn tour, you’ll be able to relax or snap away with your camera.

Two white horses pulling a covered wagon with passengers along a road near a waterfront with a lighthouse in the background.

FlyOver Canada – See Canada from coast-to-coast and experience the attractions and beauty that the country is renowned for – all from one spot! As this is considered a ride, this activity is not recommended for those experiencing ‘rocking’ from your cruise, but definitely something to check out before you get on the boat!

Get Your Step On

The Vancouver Seawall is one of many scenic strolls in the city. It starts at Canada Place and leads down into the Coal Harbour area with its one of a kind views, seaplane terminal, and popular marina. Beginning with the Canadian Trail, ‘walk across’ the country and then make your way down the Vancouver Convention Centre stairs for your harbour view stroll. This is an incredibly photogenic area with our North Shore mountains and seaplanes flying by, so make sure you have your camera or smartphone at the ready! Coal Harbour leads into Stanley Park, which is the perfect place to spend a few hours solo, as a couple, or with the family.

City skyline at sunset with pink and orange clouds, waterfront with docked seaplanes, and a curved walkway.

Fuel Up

Vancouver is an international melting pot of cuisines with its diverse options. Family friendly or date night options are readily available nearby to the Canada Place cruise terminal and along Coal Harbour. All offer several healthy options, and you’ll get an excellent view whether inside or have the good fortune to have a patio table!