By
Sean Dudley |
This article was first published in the Spring/Summer 2016 issue of International Cruise & Ferry Review. All information was correct at the time of printing, but may since have changed.
Nestled between the Pacific Ocean and the magnificent backdrop of the nearby mountains, Vancouver is the ideal port for guests to begin or end their Alaskan adventure.
Visitors to Vancouver can enjoy the city’s public markets, international cuisine, shopping and hospitality, fantastic vistas, and famous attractions like the Capilano Suspension Bridge, Stanley Park and Grouse Mountain.
For over 30 years, Port Metro Vancouver has been a leading homeport for Alaska cruises and is the only homeport to offer both one-way and roundtrip itineraries through the ‘Inside Passage’ – a coastal route that runs along thousands of island archipelagos on the west coast of British Columbia.
With much of the Inside Passage still in its pristine natural condition, guests will experience the glaciers, mountains, wildlife and rugged beauty of one of North America’s last frontiers. A variety of itineraries offer guests front-row views of the region’s majestic coastline, while the shorter distance travelled through this route allows passengers to spend more time in the Alaskan ports.
Port Metro Vancouver’s Canada Place is an award-winning cruise terminal, located in the heart of downtown Vancouver, in close proximity to all the city has to offer. The terminal is only 30 minutes from the Vancouver International Airport, while there is easy access to public transportation, taxi services, shuttles, limousines, and long- and short-term parking.
Port Metro Vancouver consistently achieves high passenger satisfaction scores, and with recent terminal enhancements to improve efficiency and flow, the cruise passenger experience is even better. Given its harbour setting, Port Metro Vancouver places high priority on environmental protection with programmes such as a shorepower initiative that aims to decrease marine diesel air emissions by allowing cruise ships to shut down their engines when in port.
With a long list of activities for guests and magnificent scenery, food and hospitality, Vancouver is a dynamic pre-and post-cruise destination that offers passengers an unforgettable experience.