Vancouver Extended Seaplane Tour — Howe Sound & Islands

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.