Planning a cruise from Vancouver and wondering where to stay the night before? I’ve found myself in exactly that dilemma for an Alaska cruise and a transpacific cruise! Planning and rebooking is really important: I paid way over the odds for a Holiday Inn by booking last minute (>$400 CAD).
The good news is that booking early saves you cash and, with Canada Place (Vancouver Cruise Port) basically in downtown Vancouver, you have a decent range of luxury water view properties and some practical cheap as chips spots. I’ve ranked the choices based on distance to Canada Place and value for money.
Pan Pacific Vancouver: Stay Above the Terminal
Distance to Port: 0 minutes (elevator directly to cruise terminal) Why it’s perfect: You literally stay above Canada Place cruise terminal The Pan Pacific Vancouver is the holy grail of cruise convenience! It’s a benchmark hotel that sits right above the cruise terminal – you can literally take an elevator into the terminal while everyone else is schlepping in on the Skytrain. Plus, the views and Five Pine Restaurant are unbeatable. Check prices for the Pan Pacific Vancouver -> Travel Tip: There’s no airport shuttle, but YVR Airport is easily accessible via the Canada Line SkyTrain (35 minutes) or taxi (30 minutes, around $35-50). Read my guide to getting from Vancouver Airport to the cruise port with step-by-step directions and current pricing.
Fairmont Waterfront: Luxury Across the Street
Distance to Port: 1-minute walk across Canada Place Way Why it’s excellent: Premium location with rooftop amenities If the Pan Pacific is sold out (or too expensive), the Fairmont Waterfront is hardly a budget option, but you might get lucky. The hotel sits directly across from the cruise terminal with unobstructed harbour views from most rooms. The service is exceptional and the rooftop pool is one of the best. Check prices for the Fairmont Waterfront ->
Fairmont Pacific Rim: Cocktails Galore
Distance to Port: 3-minute walk Why cruise passengers love it: Rooftop pool with city views With the Pacific Rim by, you’re still close to the cruise port, and in a five-star property with some of the best cocktails in the city. If you have time and energy, there’s a rooftop pool and some great harbour-view rooms if the budget stretches a little. Check prices for the Fairmont Pacific Rim ->
Hotels with Airport Shuttle Service
Most luxury downtown hotels don’t offer airport shuttles, but these options provide convenient transfers:
Richmond / YVR Airport Area Hotels
Holiday Inn Express Vancouver Airport – 30 minutes to cruise port Free airport shuttle + cruise terminal shuttle service Budget-friendly
Versante Hotel – 35 minutes to cruise port Free airport shuttle + transfers to cruise port via taxi (about $40) Charming mountain views
The Westin Wall Centre Vancouver Airport – 25 mins to cruise port Free airport shuttle + transfers to cruise port via taxi (about $35) Easiest airport hotel
Downtown Hotels with Cruise Shuttles
Landis Hotel & Suites Transfers: 23 minute walk or shuttle (not always guaranteed, check on arrival). Suites with kitchenettes
Downtown Walking Distance
Auberge Vancouver Hotel – 4-minute walk, recently renovated, includes breakfast L’Hermitage Hotel – 12-15 minute walk, good value four-star Delta Hotels by Marriott Vancouver Downtown Suites – 8-10 minute walk, roomy suites and fitness centre
Getting to the Port from YVR Airport
Canada Line SkyTrain (Recommended) Cost: $9.85 CAD Journey time: 35 minutes from the Airport to Waterfront Station Frequency: Every 6-8 minutes at peak times Walk from Waterfront Station to cruise terminal: 5 minutes For complete details including which train to take and where to buy tickets, check my comprehensive Vancouver Airport to Cruise Port guide.
Cost: $35-50 CAD Journey time: 30-45 minutes (depending on traffic) Best for: Heavy luggage or small groups Alternatively: Book airport transfers in advance
When should I arrive in Vancouver before my cruise?
I recommend arriving the day before your cruise departure…
Do I need to stay downtown, or are airport hotels sufficient?
If you want to experience Vancouver, stay downtown…
What’s the best area to stay for exploring Vancouver?
Stay within a few blocks of the cruise terminal…
Are cruise port hotels more expensive than other areas?
Yes, expect to pay a premium for convenience…
What about parking if I’m driving to Vancouver?
Canada Place offers cruise parking for $25 CAD per day…
Can I walk to restaurants and attractions from cruise port hotels?
Oh yes, definitely!…
What should I expect on disembarkation day?
Plan for potential delays when leaving your ship…