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Aquabus
Categories: Active Life Boating Hotels & Travel Transportation Public Transportation Boating, Public Transportation [Edit]
230 - 1333 Johnston StVancouver, BC V6H 3R9
Neighbourhood: Granville Island/False Creek
(604) 689-5858
- Hours:
Mon-Sun 6:30 am - 9:30 pm
- Good for Kids:
- Yes
40 reviews for Aquabus
40 reviews in English
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Review from Tamara H.
6/20/2010
One of my favourite things about Vancouver is that we can take little water taxi's to get around. So much more scenic and usually faster than trying to take public transit or even a car to & from Granville Island to Downtown.
I prefer Aquabus to False Creek Ferries but both are good companies and a super fun touristy indulgence. -
Review from Chauncey B.
Vancouver, BC
2/11/2012
On a beautiful Vancouver day there's almost no better way to get around than the Aquabus. It's punctual, reasonably priced, and just plain pleasant. Once I was on Granville Island, just puttering around buying wind chimes and Bach Flower Remedies as one does, when I realized I was going to be late for a meeting! But thanks to the Aquabus, with its quick and conv...
Oh. Oh my god, guys...Whitney. Whitney Houston is dead.
She's gone.
I can't finish. 4 stars. -
Review from Beverly W.
Vancouver, BC
11/18/2011
I love the Aquabus because it's a fun way to get to Granville Island. I have to admit that it is a bit expensive. It is minimum $3.25 for a one-way ticket depending on your starting point. I bought the $22 for $20 tickets which brings it down to $2.20 per ticket. The website has all the information you need on fares, schedules and maps.
I also love the fact that you can bring your pet onboard. I brought my dog on the Aquabus but she was terrified by the moving dock. I carried her on my lap for the entire ride. -
Review from David L.
11/4/2011 1 photo
It's a cool boating experience. How many people out there in North America tried sitting inside a public bus type boat the size of a large personal recreational fishing boat? Not too many.
The Aquabus is must try for Vancouverites and tourists if they want to see the coastline of Vancouver on a cute lil' boat. -
Review from Emily S.
10/31/2011
Took the Aquabus on a recent trip to Canada. It was cheap to get on. And, it was not crowded.
For around $13 or so, you get to take a small tour of the river. It's a nice way to sit and relax. The bus is kind of loud. And you can smell the gas sometimes. But it's fun.
The bus is small and low, so you're real close to the water. You could probably touch it if you wanted to. -
Review from Henry B.
Vancouver, BC
The Aquabus is really cool. I don't know how anyone cannot love this little mini boat. It's just too cute!
The Aquabus Ferries started operating their False Creek tours and taxi service back in 1986 during "Expo 86". It has grown from the initial 4 Benford ferries to now 7 traditional ferries with a capacity of 12 passengers and 1 skipper and 4 Cyquabus ferries that can accommodate bikes, strollers and wheelchairs.
A few years back, the Aquabus company started some "Green" initiatives by converting the diesel engines to clean, biodegradable, and nontoxic bio diesel made from used vegetable oil from restaurants on Granville Island. How cool is that? Cute and environmentally conscious, you got to love these little ferries.
The Aquabus make stops at Hornby st, Granville Island, David Lam park, Stamp's Landing, Sypglass Place, Yaletown, Plaza of Nations, and Science world. It's a great way for someone living in downtown to conveniently take this little boat over to Granville Island. It can cost you anywhere from $3.50-$6.50.
When I'm visiting Granville Island, I'll usually go for the 25 minute mini cruise and it only cost $8 with a very short wait or you can go for a longer 40 minutes tour for $11. You will get a round trip around False Creek passing through nice scenery. The skippers are super friendly and they even provide change.
Whether you are a local or a tourist, I highly recommend the mini cruise on a nice sunny day if you are in Granville Island. You can go to http://www.theaquabus.com for the latest info on the fees and schedule.
The super cute mini ferries get 4.5 stars! -
Review from Mark H.
8/20/2011 1 Check-in Here
Nothing beats being on a boat on the Pacific ocean. I don't know what it is, but it just feels good.
We were going to rent our own boat but saw a lineup, so opted for the Aquabus circle route. Friendly staff, gorgeous views of downtown, and the sweet sea breeze, you can't go wrong. I only wish we could have a beer(s) on the boat, then it would be perfect. -
Review from Adrienne R.
6/27/2011 1 photo
A fun little touristy thing to do in Vancouver. We took the AquaBus over to Granville Island (mostly because it came first to the stop we were waiting at.) Our driver was friendly and helpful. We saw some sights.
We rode on the rainbow aquabus and saw a couple other color aquabuses on our trip. -
Review from Linda L.
5/29/2011
Overall: A neat type of public transportation that everyone must try
So we were hanging around in Chinatown and thought we'd like to go t Granville island. Instead of going back to the hotel to pick up the car (all the way at Melville), we decided to walk down and get an aquabus.
Funny, cute and relatively zippy for its size. We initially thought it made stopped at all it's allocated stops, but in fact, it's more like a water taxi. We wanted to go to Granville island, and we went directly there. It's pretty fun. For two adults it was $13.00. -
Review from B V.
9/9/2011
I like the Aquabus. It's cute and affordable and a good alternate transportation when in Vancouver. However; don't be fooled by the "mini cruise" which is nothing more than taking the aquabus from one stop to another and back again. I took some friends from out of town who were disappointed that it advertised it was 25 minutes but was really only 10-15 minutes long. And fun for the whole family??? I supposed if you not into taking the kids to the strip clubs then yes the Aquabus is the next best thing.
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Review from Sebastian P.
Vancouver, BC
11/5/2010
It's great to ride the Aquabus on a sunny day, I prefer to hop over to Granville Island.
Recently I discovered that AB discontinued their day pass system so you have to purchase tickets seperate or as a roundtrip, that makes it a bit more expensive and the prices are already a bit on edge. Does it cost that much to operate the boats?
Otherwise a great thing for tourists and locals who want to use the seaways to reach their destination.
Cheers
~S -
Review from Jenni B.
2/15/2010 ROTD 4/20/2010
Yesterday was such a gorgeous day that an Aquabus ride from downtown to Granville Island seemed necessary.
After a lovely Olympic queue I boarded the little vessel which putt putt putted along. It was so cute. And I was dork enough to take video... really it was an amazing day and the amount of people at the seawall was just madness!
So much easier than any other way to Granville Island... the four bucks it cost wasn't bad, and the driver fellow was friendly.
And I mean, who isn't happy when they're on a boat on a beautiful day? -
Review from Stacy B.
10/18/2010
Your super cheap Aquabus fare includes any and all suggestions about where to shop, dine, etc. The "skipper" (ha) and his crew really know the lay of the land and will point you in the right direction.
Beautiful, scenic quick trip from Granville Island to the downtown area. -
Review from Marc D.
Vancouver, BC
12/14/2008
I agree with those that have said it is overpriced and/or touristy. Particularly the Hornby St. to Granville Island run which is all of 1 minute to cross. But these little ferries for some reason still hit my soft spot. Perhaps it is the bathtub style floating boat feel, or the friendly staff. I don't know what it is exactly, but they are charming. (I don't think there is a siren of the sea in Vancouver, but perhaps they figured out how to call upon the Siren of False Creek.)
Granted, I live downtown and find them a nice and convenient way to hop across to shop or visit a cafe at Granville Market, get over to Cambie Street to hit the restaurants (Peaceful hand-pulled noodles or Menya Ramen - yum!), or all the way to Science World when wanting to connect with Skytrain, walk to Main St. or get to the bus terminal. It is like having a personal water taxi in the neighbourhood that you just share with a few other people. The small boats have a capacity of only 12 and the larger ones are limited to around 20. Almost all of the skippers are very friendly and chatty, and get to know the regulars.
Tip: They sell "Aquastrips" that are basically discounted rides bought in bulk. They normally are $20/20 tickets. It takes 2 tickets for the short trips, and more for longer trips. If you are a tourist you might still save money if you are a group by doing this. If you are local (or visit regularly), they don't expire.
Tip of the Season: During December each year they run a special on the strips. Instead of being $60/60 tickets they offer them up at $35/60 tickets. Quite the steal (all things relative) and get things back to the price area they probably should be charging in the first place. Good time to stock up for the year.
Tip for tourists: If you are staying in a downtown hotel, then don't bother with the "mini-cruise." It just takes you out as far as Yaletown and back. Just buy a round-trip from downtown to Granville Market and enjoy exploring the market to break up the trip. Or if you are getting to the market a different way, then just get a one way back to downtown. You'll see all the same stuff, on the same boats, and also accomplish the commute!Listed in: Granville Island
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Review from Alli D.
8/9/2009
I like rainbows. I like boats. Aquabus combines the two.
What could be more fun than hopping aboard a rainbow-colored boat and being ferried to all kinds of cool locations? With zero wait time and cool college-kid drivers (skippers? captains?)?
As cool as the destinations are, the Aquabus is more than just a mode of transportation. You'll get fantastic views of the city and see plenty of geese, or maybe a seal if you're lucky like we were!Listed in: The Couv
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Review from Littlefish B.
Vancouver, BC
10/13/2009
It just doesn't get cuter! The little Aquabus foot passenger ferries in False Creek are gorgeous. They look like adorable little kindergartners practicing ballet, bobbing from one side of the stage to the other.
I confess, they're pricey. But it really is a treat to get a water-view of the city, seawall, marinas and mountains. And the service is always friendly. I always include it in my recommendations for tourists, and I enjoy them occasionally myself, too.
Aquabuses are part of the Vancouver Scene that I adore. -
Review from Chloë E.
Vancouver, BC
12/4/2008 1 photo
The Aquabus always puts a smile on my face with its bright rainbow colors and putt-putt engine. The regular ferries and "Cyquabus" sit quite low in the water. Thankfully there aren't any heavy seas in False Creek.
The stops are perfect for both tourists and families. Routes head to Science World, the Aquatic Center, and Plaza of Nations. But the ferries also provide a good service to commuters and commuter cyclists.
I've always wondered what the difference was between the Aquabus and Granville Island Ferries. So after some eye-crossing web page examination, here are my findings:
- only Granville Island Ferries goes to the Maritime Museum
- only Aquabus goes to Spyglass Place
- fares from Granville Island are $0.50+ more expensive with Aquabus
- not sure if Granville Island Ferries takes bikes
So, in short, you're pretty much good with either to see a unique view of Vancouver. -
Review from Clarissa S.
1/12/2009
How could you possibly give something so convenient and so cute anything less than five stars?
These little rainbow colored boats are perfect for travelling to and from downtown to Granville Island. Plus, having been a local, a $3 ride on the wee tugs were well worth not having to not have to find parking on the island. -
Review from Megan S.
1/30/2009
For most people this is a cute way to get across the water.
Last week, in some heavy rain, without an umbrella, it was like my guardian angel coming to pick me up. My only trepidation came from standing on the dock in Yaletown, hoping that it was coming. However, my wait was less than 2 minutes.
Mission was get to Granville Island, it was accomplished with a fast and pleasant ride. Awesome! -
Review from mimi p.
5/23/2011
Aquabus is a convenient short scenic ride to Granville Market Place or other locations around the area.. Its a $2-3 one way or $5-6 round trip...We stayed off Granville and Drake Street and the Aquabus was located a couple blocks away.. Its a nice ride if its not raining..
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Review from Ross E.
5/9/2011
Most hilarious looking public transportation I have ever seen.
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Review from Noa G.
Vancouver, BC
9/29/2008 3 photos
I remember being allowed to drive the aquabus from Kits beach to Granville Island or English Bay when I was little. I'm not sure if they offer this impromptu service to kids (or really small adults) anymore, but hey, you can try.
Either way, the eco-friendly, electric-powered aquabus is a great way to ride the high seas and get where you're going (if where you're going is included in one of the scheduled stops -- Passenger ferries to Granville Island operate between docks at the south foot of Hornby St., the Arts Club on Granville Island, Yaletown at Davie St., Telus World of Science, Plaza of Nations, Stamp's Landing, and Spyglass Place) while leaving the car at home.
NB: Bikes and wheelchairs are welcome between Hornby St. and Granville Island. Regular sailings 6:45 am-10:30 pm (to 9:30 pm in winter). One-way fares from $2.50. Discounts for seniors and children. -
Review from Becca Y.
Richmond, BC
1/5/2010
I used to work at a hotel and we recommended the Aquabus to explore downtown and Granville Island all the time. I've been on it 3-4 times and it's always on time and it's great for sightseeing around False Creek.
I would definitely recommended it for sightseeing and to avoid traffic and parking downtown. -
Review from Nancy R.
Vancouver, BC
10/3/2010
I *heart* the Aquabus! Each and every time we go to Granville Island from Yaletown, we take the Aquabus... it's an affordable, effortless and simplistic way to traverse False Creek. Whether you're a local or a tourist, I highly recommend the Aquabus! :D
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Review from Naoko S.
9/9/2008
Just to across the river which took 30 seconds, for 3 bucks,,,, is over priced.
The tour gig can be the better deal.Listed in: vancouver bc
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Review from Sheila W.
BC
11/28/2008 1 photo
There's something romantic about the water and the AquaBus is an inexpensive way to get out and enjoy it. As a means of transportation, it's more expensive than the bus or skytrain. But how many cities in the world can you hop on a little boat and enjoy a fabulous view and bob along beside yachts?
I would definitely recommend that visitors to Vancouver take a ride from Granville Island to Yaletown or vice versa. It's a different look at the city and you might even see a seal! -
Review from Luisa S.
Vancouver, BC
10/1/2008
I'm new to the joys of the Aquabus. After a full day of sightseeing in Granville Island, we were too tired to walk back downtown. It was a friend from Australia--a tourist--who introduced me to this wonderful mode of transportation.
A mere four minutes from Hornby Street, the Aquabus journeys to Science World and Yaletown. At $2.50, it's a bit pricey but still enjoyable. -
Review from Carolyn C.
10/23/2008 1 photo
I absolutely loved the $4 25-minute mini cruise on Aquabus.
Not only do you get a beautiful view and relaxing view of the surrounding area, you get to listen to the history of the different parts of town.
Our "captain" was extremely friendly and offered up advice about several neighborhoods in Vancouver.
I would highly recommend Aquabus to anyone.
+ low prices
+ great view -
Review from Lee N.
Vancouver, BC
2/11/2011 1 photo
I love the Aqua bus and don't use it as much as I did when I live on False Creek North, but for zipping across with my bike cutting off the long ride down to Science world and back (yes I know I could use the bridge, but where is the fun in that??) I use it during the summer.
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Review from Marty p.
Vancouver, BC
1/5/2011
I love the idea of the aquabus, but why not make it more commuter friendly? Passes? More then one that can take a bike? better schedules? I think it could be such a great way to get around the city but never use it because of the price.
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Review from Nadine N.
Vancouver, BC
9/18/2008 6 photos
What's not to love about a rainbow coloured boat? For $7 you can take a 25 minute tour of the False Creek. It's a relaxing way to spend some time on the water and to see part of the city from the water. It's not necessarily the best thing if you are wanting a thorough tour of Vancouver, but I think it's worth the money. For $3-$4 you'll just be shuttled from one dock to another, so if you are looking for the tour, make sure you are on the right boat. Leashed dogs are welcome!
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Review from Catherine W.
New Westminster, BC
4/20/2010
I love this little boat! I have lived in Vancouver all my life and although it is a little pricey, the view is amazing! The boat masters are always friendly and if its raining and you need to get from Yaletown to Granville Island, it's much better than walking and cheaper than a taxi!
Listed in: The 5 Spot, Transportation
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Review from Reena M.
7/3/2009
I love the aquabus! I wish I had a need to use it more often but I don't often go from downtown to granville island, and when I do, I'm driving. But nevertheless, it's awesome! And not toooooo expensive. Though, it would be as good as it gets if it were covered under the same transit fares as the seabus. But then again, it's a private company, so can't hate.
Listed in: Tourism Vancouver, Granville Island Must-eats…
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Review from vanessa G.
Vancouver, BC
6/20/2010 11 Check-ins Here
Who doesn't love the Aquabus? Cute, quick, and efficient.. i often forget about these rainbow coloured beauties. Why go up and around, and over a bridge when these guys can take you directly across the Harbour? They even have Cyclebus's now but i can't seem to reason why i would ride my bike and jump on one of these, but i will give it a try soon!
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Review from Becca C.
1/25/2010 1 photo
We rode our bikes to the Aquabus in downtown. There were plenty of rails to fasten it to, and made our way to the cute little boat in no time. They waited for us to hurridly make our way down, so they may not run a tight ship with the departure times. I was under the impression the one we were on didn't go the full extent into False Creek, maybe it only shuttled between Granville Market and Downtown. Anywho, I think it was $5 round trip per person, and a good deal. At first glance, the nearby bridge looked like a logistical nightmare if we had decided to use our bikes rather than the aquabus.
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Review from Ryan W.
6/30/2009
Are you kidding? This is the coolest little boat on the water. It reminds me of something from a cartoon. We walked to the waterfront from our hotel in Yaletown and rode the Aquabus to Granville Island. It is a simple shuttle service, and the captain was very nice. The view wasn't bad either. The price was right!
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Review from Kyle F.
10/6/2009 1 photo
A little pricey for the short trip from Hornsby to Granville Island. I could probably swim the distance faster than waiting and riding the bus across, but this way keeps me dry :)
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Review from Victoria R.
BC
1/2/2009
I love the Aquabus! In the summers, I walk down from English Bay to the area by the foot of the Burrard Bridge and hop on the Auqabus to take me to Granville Island. It's $3 so a bit more expensive than the bus, but I love riding across the sea and getting dropped off exactly at my destination. The bus takes about 10 people and is very quick, so if you miss one another comes right away, It also makes stops in Yaletown and near False Creek. Usually, they have young people driving the bus and they like to make conversation. I wish there was a bus going to West Vancouver or Kitsilano from downtown. Save time and money!
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Review from Ali L.
Montréal, QC
8/30/2009
The rainbow Aquabus boats are so cute and colourful that I've always enjoyed seeing them puttering to and fro from Granville Island. But I thought it was "touristy" for years, and so I didn't even take one until I was showing some visiting kids around town. It was so fun I have come back several times just to cruise around, enjoying the views of downtown and south False Creek.
The best route is from Granville Island to Yaletown or Science World (or from Science World to Granville Island.) For $6, you can hop into the cute little boat and head off, cruising under the bridges and past the traffic. Then you can go about the rest of your day's non-nautical adventures.
I now think of the Aquabus as a fun car-free way to get to Granville Island. With the traffic around the Island, it is a time-saver from downtown or False Creek as well.Listed in: Granville Island Picks and…
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Review from Tiffany R.
8/8/2008
I took the Aquabus around False Creek for a mere $6 while visiting Granville Island. It was a cheap way to take a little tour and feel like you were doing something fun. The Aquabus seats around 10 people, although there were only five of us on board which made it more pleasant. I wanted our Aquabus captain to do a little narration of the local sights for us, but I guess that doesn't come with the low fare. Perhaps he woke up on the wrong side of the Aquabus. Overall though, it was a fun, cheap way to experience False Creek on a gorgeous day.
