Frequently Asked Questions

In Banff and Jasper, we have introduced stringent cleaning and safety protocols to safely operate this summer season for all travelers who visit Banff and Jasper. International travel to Canada is currently restricted. Please see our complete information page for more information on our Safety Promise.

The Maligne Lake Cruise is a unique sightseeing tour exploring Maligne Lake, home to the world-famous Spirit Island in Jasper National Park. Your voyage will be an approximate 1.5 hours and will include vibrant stories from the onboard guide who will introduce you to the history of the lake and its earliest explorers, along with glaciology, flora & fauna of the area.

For up-to-date Maligne Lake Cruise daily operating hours please visit the Location & Hours page.

The Maligne Lake Cruise is approximately 1.5 hours long (2 hours for the premium cruise) not including loading.

We recommend arriving 30 minutes prior to your cruise departure.

For up-to-date Maligne Lake Cruise departures please visit the Location & Hours page.

From the east end of the town site of Jasper, follow highway 16 east for 3 km and take the turnoff for Maligne Lake Road to the right, proceed over the iron bridge across the Athabasca river, stay left at the fork in the road and then proceed for 48 km until you arrive at Maligne Lake. Watch for “animal jam” slowdowns. When you reach the Maligne Lake area the first public parking lot is to the left. After parking, follow the short trail through a grove of trees to Maligne Lake, the ticket office, boathouse, Lakehouse, and the Historic Chalet. We highly recommend you allow 1–1.5 hours to drive from Jasper to Maligne Lake.

Yes. We are accessible to most standard wheelchairs. We recommend you contact central reservations as our accessible boats are in limited supply.

No. Unfortunately we do not allow pet on board our cruises.

Although wildlife such as moose and grizzly bears frequent the Maligne Lake area, they can be difficult to find and we cannot guarantee that you will see them.

Unfortunately, for safety reasons, we are unable to accommodate for a stroller on the boats. They can be left at the boat docks.

Currently, our capacities are restricted to help enforce social distancing. With the restrictions, we can fit approximate 18-28 people depending on the boat.

Generally, no. Our cruise boats are covered, but there may be a bit of water spray if the windows are open when the boat picks up speed.

Weather can be unpredictable. The lake tends to be cooler than the temperature in the town of Jasper so a light jacket is recommended. It can even snow here in the summer months, so bring layers just in case!

We have 3 food and beverage options to choose from: The Lakehouse which serves grab and go style food in a casual atmosphere, the Waffle Hut which serves delicious coffee and decadent waffle options and the View - our outdoor lakeside patio restaurant with great a la cart options for you to choose from. Washroom facilities are available in the parking lot, as well as in the Lakehouse and Waffle Hut.

No. Parks Canada requires all adult visitors to Canada’s national parks to buy a permit for the duration of their stay to support visitor services and facilities. Day Passes or a yearly Discovery Pass are available to buy in-person at Parks Canada's park gates and information centres in Banff and Jasper. Admission for youth 17 and under is free.

Maligne Lake is one of the most popular recreational areas in Jasper National Park. There are plenty of great trails for hiking all around this beautiful area. In addition to these, you can also rent canoes, rowboats and kayaks, or visit the Maligne Lake Cruise for an interpretive voyage across the lake.

You may swim in Maligne Lake at your own risk. We caution visitors against swimming here because Maligne Lake's waters are extremely cold, even in the hot summer months.

Yes. You will require a national park fishing license which can be purchased onsite at the boathouse.

A daily fishing permit from Parks Canada costs $9.80 per person, or an annual permit can be purchased for $34.30.

Canoes, Rowboats and Kayaks are available on a first-come, first served basis from the boathouse.

Safety briefings and instructions are provided prior to your departure so you'll be prepared in the event of an emergency. Lifejackets will be provided for safety.