Banff Jasper Collection

Hit the open water this summer at Minnewanka!

Feel the fresh mountain air, watch for wildlife and get adventurous on Banff's largest lake. Choose from one of our acclaimed cruises and explore under the lead of a knowledgeable guide on a heated, covered boat. Or set your own course with a kayak, canoe or motorboat rental.

Back on the shore, stop by the Black Anchor Snack Shop for a picnic lunch. It just feels like summer out here!

Getting to the Lake

Lake Minnewanka is one of Banff’s most popular destinations and the parking lot fills quickly; please arrive at least two hours prior to your cruise time to ensure you find a parking spot and have time to explore the area from the shore.

For the best experience, leave the drive to us. Show your tour ticket to the Route 6 bus driver of the Bow Valley's Roam Public Transit service from Downtown Banff to Lake Minnewanka and get a FREE RETURN RIDE on the day of your cruise.*

*Please allow for 30 minutes of travel time if taking Roam Public Transit.

SECURE YOUR SEAT & AVOID THE LINE:
BOOK ONLINE

Alberta residents save up to 20%
Ages 5 and under ride free anytime

2023 Dates: May 12 – October 9, 2023*

*Weather dependent

Cruise Options

CLASSIC CRUISE

2023 Dates: May 12 – October 9, 2023

Our most popular cruise on the lake invites you to discover the story of Minnewanka Landing as you tour the beautiful valley landscape of Canada’s oldest National Park.

Features:

  • 1-hour approx. cruise on Lake Minnewanka
  • Explore Banff from a new perspective
  • Engaging interpretive commentary
BEER VOYAGE

2023 Dates: May 26 – October 1, 2023

Tour the mighty Minnewanka while enjoying a selection of local craft beer with friends and family. Plus, you’ll receive a special take-home gift. Cold craft beer, lake-top adventure and stunning mountain views — it’s a winning combination.

Features:

  • 1.5-hour cruise with selection of craft beer
  • Special themed commentary
  • Perfect après adventure cruise
  • Free special take-home gift
  • 18+ only cruise
PREMIUM CRUISE

2023 Dates: May 26 – October 1, 2023

Experience more of Lake Minnewanka. With extended time on the Rockies’ largest lake, you’ll enjoy more opportunities to see wildlife and beautiful vistas while taking in engaging stories from our guide and captain.

Features:

  • 1.5 hour extended cruise on Lake Minnewanka
  • VIP greeting and check in by your guide
  • Stop on the lake to view Devil's Gap
  • Sample delicious local pine tea
JUNIOR EXPLORER CRUISE

2023 Dates: July 1 – September 4, 2023

Calling all junior adventurers! This cruise is specially made for children under 12 and their families. The experience includes a treasure hunt, games, cool treats and more!

Features:

  • 1-hour approx. cruise on Lake Minnewanka specially made for kids 12 and under
  • Kids journal book
  • Cool treat for kids at the docks
  • One free child (6-15 years) for each full paying adult
Make memories your way

Make memories your way

From family-friendly expeditions to cruising with a craft beer in hand, find the right tour for you on Lake Minnewanka.

A table with a view

Getting to Lake Minnewanka Cruise

Lake Minnewanka Cruise is located at Lake Minnewanka, a 15-minute drive from the town of Banff along the Minnewanka Loop Drive, in Banff National Park, Alberta, Canada.

See 2024 Daily Operating Dates and Times

Driving

If you're driving, please arrive at least two hours before your cruise to ensure you find a parking spot and have time to explore from the shore.

Check in

Please check in at least 15 minutes before departure at the Ticket Office, a 10-minute walk from the parking lot on the boarding docks.

To find the Ticket Office, follow the signs on the path from the parking lot or Roam Transit station, turn right after passing the Black Anchor Snack Shop and arrive on the right side of the docks.

2023 OPERATING DATES*

Classic Cruise

June 23 – September 4 9 AM – 7 PM
Regular departures
September 5 – October 1 10 AM – 6 PM
Departures every hour on the hour
October 2 – October 9 10 AM – 5 PM
Departures every hour on the hour

Premium Cruise

May 26 – October 1 Daily departure, 10:30 AM

Beer Voyage

May 26 – October 1 Daily departure, 5 PM

Explorer Cruise

July 1 – September 4 Daily departures, 12:40 PM and 3:20 PM

 

*Weather dependent
**Junior Explorer Cruise includes one child admitted free with each paying adult.
The majority of the boats on Lake Minnewanka are now fully wheelchair accessible. If you book your tickets in advance online, please contact our boathouse at (403) 762-4425 ahead of your visit to make necessary arrangements.
Rates and hours of operation subject to change without notice.
Availability is on a first-come, first-serve basis and specific departure times cannot be guaranteed without pre-purchased tickets.
For the safety of those onboard bear spray is not permitted on cruises.

The #LakeMinnewanka Experience

Connect with @LakeMinnewankaCruise on 

A member of our team will respond within 24 hours (weekdays) and 48 hours (weekends).

 
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