Vancouver Extended Seaplane Tour — Howe Sound & Islands

Experience even more of British Columbia’s beauty on this extended version of our most popular seaplane tour. While Vancouver’s skyline, mountain ranges, and coastline are stunning from land and water, nothing compares to seeing them from above. This 45-minute seaplane experience offers an enhanced aerial adventure for those wanting to see more in less time. Departing from downtown Vancouver’s Coal Harbour, soar over the city, Stanley Park, and Lions Gate Bridge before venturing deeper into the wilderness. Your expert pilot will follow a seasonal route that may include views of the rugged Coast Mountains, scattered islands of Howe Sound, and forested inlets unreachable by road or boat. Compared to the standard Vancouver Panorama Scenic Seaplane Tour, this extended version adds 15 extra minutes of flight time and offers more remote scenery. Ideal for travelers seeking a deeper look at BC’s natural beauty.

1. 1

   Harbour Air

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   Your adventure begins at Harbour Air's downtown Vancouver terminal at the Vancouver Harbour Flight Centre in Coal Harbour — steps from Canada Place, the Vancouver Convention Centre, and Jack Poole Plaza, the iconic home of the Olympic flame from the 2010 Winter Games. As you wait, take in panoramic views of Stanley Park and the North Shore Mountains from the passenger lounge, grab a coffee at the Cockpit Café, or browse the gift shop. Check in 40 minutes prior to departure.

2. 2

   Stanley Park

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   Once aboard, your seaplane lifts off from the waters of Coal Harbour and climbs above the city. Your flight takes you over the emerald expanse of Stanley Park — one of North America's largest urban parks — where sweeping forest meets the waterfront in a way that can only truly be appreciated from the air.

3. 3

   Gambier Island

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   This is where your journey goes beyond the standard panoramic tour. Your route continues west into Howe Sound, one of the most dramatic fjords on Canada's Pacific coast. Below you, Gambier Island emerges — a peaceful, largely undeveloped retreat where dense forest meets the ocean, offering a serene and unspoiled view of British Columbia's natural landscape that most visitors never get to see.

4. 4

   Bowen Island

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   Continuing over Howe Sound, you'll fly over Bowen Island — known for its towering trees, sheltered coves and tranquil shores. From above, the untouched wilderness of this island is captivating, set against the backdrop of the snow-capped Coast Mountains. Both Gambier and Bowen Islands are exclusive to this extended route and cannot be seen on our standard panoramic flight.

5. 5

   Vancouver

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   As your flight arcs back toward the city, the Vancouver skyline comes into dramatic view — a striking contrast to the wilderness you've just flown over. From above, you'll take in the full scale of the city's dynamic blend of urban energy and natural beauty, with the waterfront, harbour and mountain backdrop all visible at once.

6. 6

   B.C. Place Stadium

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   Descending toward the city, BC Place Stadium stands out as one of Vancouver's most iconic downtown landmarks — easily recognised by its distinctive roof and prominent position along the waterfront skyline. As the official venue for the 2026 Soccer games, it carries even greater significance for visitors this year.

7. 7

   Science World

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   Also visible along the False Creek waterfront is Science World, one of Vancouver's most recognisable landmarks, its iconic geodesic dome a defining feature of the city's skyline from every angle — and particularly spectacular from the air.

8. 8

   Vancouver Harbour Flight Centre

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   Your seaplane makes a smooth water landing back at the Vancouver Harbour Flight Centre, bringing your extended aerial adventure to a close. In 35 minutes of flight time, you will have experienced two completely different sides of British Columbia — the vibrant energy of one of Canada's greatest cities, and the raw, unspoiled wilderness that surrounds it. If you have already flown our panoramic tour, this is your next adventure.

• Public transportation options are available nearby
• Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
• Suitable for all physical fitness levels
• All passengers 18 years and above must present either one piece of valid government issued photo identification, or two pieces of government-issued identification without a photograph
• Passengers must arrive at the terminal at least 40 minutes before the scheduled departure time, and be fully checked-in 20 minutes before the scheduled departure time.
• Passengers not checked-in before the check-in cutoff times will not be able to board their scheduled flight and will not be refunded their fare.

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.