Being out on the water, there is always the chance of getting wet.

Is there parking available?

Paid parking is available throughout Granville Island near our office. There's lots of space but on the weekends it can fill up, so plan to arrive a little early. You can easily catch a 10-15 min Uber or taxi from any hotel downtown.

You are welcome to wear whatever you feel comfortable in. We recommend dressing in layers, avoiding cotton/denim if possible, and wearing clothing that lets you move freely. Workout clothes are usually a great option.

Will it be wavy or rough on the water?

By sticking to only calm and protected waterways, we very rarely encounter rough water or wavy conditions.

What is your cancellation policy?

With Trip Protection, you can cancel up to 1 hour before departure for a full refund. Without Trip Protection: 100% refund for cancellations more than 7 days before departure, 50% refund between 3 and 7 days, no refund less than 3 days before departure.

What if I still have questions?

We're here to help! Simply call us at (604) 229-5929 if you have any additional questions or concerns.

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Vancouver Water Adventures

Student Marine Discovery Tours

Give students and educational groups the ultimate outdoor classroom! Vancouver Water Adventures offers immersive field trips that explore the coastline, showcase local marine life, and allow visitors to view the city from a brand-new perspective.

Recommended by our partners:

Learning about British Columbia’s coast through real world experience

Our student programs turn the water into a living classroom, supporting curriculum learning goals in science, geography, local ecosystems, and outdoor education through real world, place based learning. Students learn by observing wildlife, asking questions, and taking part in guided discussion, with each experience adapted to the age and learning level of the group. We have 6 boats that can carry 12 passengers each, total 72.

Student Learning Outcomes

Learning is observation based, discussion driven, and adapted to the age of each group.

Our student programs support curriculum learning goals in science, geography, local ecosystems, and outdoor education through real world, place based learning.

Core Learning Outcomes

All student groups

Students will

Identify local marine wildlife such as harbour seals and seabirds
Recognize different coastal habitats and how animals use them
Understand basic food chains and marine ecosystems
Observe wildlife respectfully and responsibly
Explore how human activity and marine environments interact

Environmental Awareness and Stewardship

Students will

Geography and Place Based Learning

Students will

Observation and Critical Thinking Skills

Students will

Age Specific Learning Outcomes

Elementary School

Students will

Middle School

Students will

Secondary School

Students will

College and University

Students will

Skills Beyond the Classroom

Students will also develop

How Learning Is Delivered

Learning happens through

Why This Works for Schools

These learning outcomes support

Curriculum Tie-Ins

Our student programs support curriculum learning goals in science, geography, local ecosystems, and outdoor education through real world, place based learning.

Science

Students explore marine life, habitats, and ecosystems through direct observation. Topics include food chains, animal behaviour, and how living things adapt to their environment.

Geography

Students learn about Vancouver’s coastline and waterways, including how landforms, tides, and human activity shape coastal areas and influence how cities develop around water.Learning happens through

Local Ecosystems

Students examine the relationships between marine wildlife, coastal habitats, and urban environments. The program highlights how human activity affects ecosystems and why stewardship matters.

Outdoor Learning

Learning takes place outside the classroom, encouraging curiosity, observation, discussion, and connection to the natural environment. Students apply classroom concepts to real settings, strengthening understanding through experience.

What to expect

Timeframes and routes of interest

Trip duration: 1.5 hours
Recommended departure times: 8am, 10am, 3:30pm, 5:30pm, 7:30pm
Check-in is 30 minutes before departure
Route includes False Creek, English Bay, Vancouver Harbour
All trip departure times, durations and routes are customizable, available upon request
Tours depart from Granville Island, but pick-up services are available

Logistics, Safety and Supervision Information:

Minimum height of 1.2m / 4ft.
Capacity of 12 guests per boat, up to 72 guest
Life jackets provided and required
Licensed and experienced guides
Controlled routes, suitable for all student ages

Testimonial

Thank you so much for making this work for us Ken!
Maya said that you were absolutely amazing to work with and the kids had an amazing time! We will for sure come again. We do three "town" trips every week for the summer and one for each pro-d day in the school year for kids of this age, as well as several for old youth (12-15). Thank you for making this work for us, our kids and staff had a great day!

As a solo traveller slightly older than you might expect to be kayaking around the bay in Vancouver, this activity was very doable, relaxing, affirming and fun. Eve was a competent guide and watched out for us all. I felt safe and proud of the adventure. Well organised, competent and attentive. I'm a teacher and take students out on activities and this ticked all the boxes for a challenge which is alert to safety. Thank you for such a lovely experience.

We had a fantastic time in our lesson with Vanessa! She was great with the students, motivating them and challenging them to try new moves on their board, including handstands and various yoga poses. The class loved it! We had a wonderful day on the water 🙂

A group of students from our law firm attended the Evening Kayak Tour and had a fantastic time!

Phenomenal experience and learnt quite a bit about this beautiful city. The staff were professional and fun on the water. It was a truly amazing experience, even the kids enjoyed themselves fully. I would absolutely do it again and recommend it.

Unforgettable Group Adventures Await You in Vancouver

Vancouver Water Adventures, we specialize in creating tailored group experiences. Whether you’re looking for thrilling boat tours, exhilarating jet ski rentals, or peaceful kayak excursions, our team is here to design the perfect adventure for your group.

Browse our brochure to discover the variety of options available for your group. Once you’ve found your perfect adventure, submit your proposal, and we’ll handle the rest, from planning to booking.

Let’s make your next group outing unforgettable!