Aerial views of Vancouver from the seaplane (October 2024)
Following a long, but fun first day in Vancouver, my friend “A” and I had another busy day in town. We woke up and were out by 9h30 to catch the ferry to our first destination of the day: Granville Island. From there, we would spend the morning wandering the large public market, getting some food, and later splitting off to do our own activities and reconvening in the evening.
We caught the next available ride via False Creek Ferries over to Granville Island; we paid our round-trip tickets onboard, which was $7 CAD ($5 USD) and enjoyed the brief, 5-minute journey across the water over. Soon enough, we docked on Granville and headed to its eponymous public market to check it out.
Taking the ferry
A little history about Granville Island: it’s a man-made island that was built in 1916 surrounding False Creek, and it was constructed for industrial use. The island was especially used for mining and forestry industries, as well as cargo shipping. Today, Granville Island is no longer an industrial hub, but rather that of arts and culture, with many studios, workshops, and theaters to practice one’s craft– if anything, there’s a bohemian vibe to Granville, albeit touristy.
The main draw of the island is the Granville Island Public Market. Founded in 1979, it’s a massive food hall and market that not only sells fresh produce and artisanal meats and cheeses, but is also home to numerous food stalls with cuisines from just about everywhere (e.g. Thai, German, Mexican). “A” and I spent some time wandering inside, which was already packed with people– I would definitely come early for less crowds, as I can imagine it’s suffocating as the day goes on.
Inside Granville Island Public Market
We got lunch at the food hall, where “A” ordered a German sausage platter and I ordered pad Thai. We also ordered London fogs, which in fact did not originate from London, but rather from Vancouver! The blend of Earl Grey tea, milk, and vanilla was a comforting combination, and it helped wash down the food we consumed.
Trying Nanaimo bar, a regional specialty!
To be honest, my pad Thai did NOT taste good, as I found it extremely mushy and weirdly too sweet (from the tamarind?). Even worse, it gave me food poisoning! I’ll spare you the details, but basically, it hit a few hours later, and I had the unfortunate experience of *erm* staying too long on the toilet, both in the hotel and Michelin-starred restaurant “A” and I went to for dinner. Thankfully, the food poisoning came and went overnight, so at least I could enjoy my third (and final) day in Vancouver the next day.
However, before the food poisoning kicked in, I enjoyed my time exploring Granville Island Public Market with “A.” Besides having lunch, we also wandered around the fresh produce section, where we saw plenty of enticing fruits, even some rarer ones like mangosteen! Also bought a few souvenirs from the local artist’s table, before checking out a cute stationery store just next door.
From there, “A” decided to stay on and check out more of Granville Island, whereas I had a booked tour with the Harbour Air Seaplane at 14h00 (“A” had opted not to join). Therefore, I said goodbye to her, took the ferry back, and headed on-foot all the way back to Canada Place where the Harbour Air terminus was. I’d purchased my tickets in advance (quite pricey at $150 USD/$206 CAD for a 20-minute ride), but I still had to arrive half an hour early to check in and wait to board.
Harbour Air is a small company based in the Richmond area of British Columbia, where it operates seaplanes to take passengers to-and-from cities by air and water. It mainly serves Canadian cities like Whistler, Richmond, Victoria, and Nanaimo, although it also operates to Seattle, the only international destination. A fun and efficient way to travel, that’s for sure!
Boarding the Harbour Air seaplane
Harbour Air also does scenic tours over Vancouver, which I did that day. Our captain was friendly and welcoming, and the eight of us passengers climbed aboard the small seaplane to spend the next 20 minutes jetting through the water and up into the air. Weather was gorgeous that day, sunny and blue skies, which made for viewing Vancouver all the more rewarding. I saw the sprawling skyline, as well as the massive greenery of Stanley Park and Grouse Mountain in the distance. Although it was such a short ride, I’m really glad I paid to do it, as I got to see the beauty of Vancouver and its surroundings.
Views of North Vancouver
Views of Downtown and Stanley Park
After disembarking from the seaplane, I headed 15 minutes on-foot to Gastown, a historic neighborhood that was the original settlement of Vancouver back in 1867. The area’s named after “Gassy” Jack Deighton, a local seaman and bartender who owned a saloon in the area. Deighton was known for being a talker, or “gassing” to anyone who would listen to him. Today, it’s a popular area with an eclectic blend of touristy shops, local bars and clubs, art galleries, tattoo parlors, and so forth. Gastown has a bit of everything, and it’s constantly busy throughout the day.
I didn’t stay too long in Gastown, not only because it was packed with tourists mid-afternoon, but also I only wanted to check out the famous Gastown steam clock. Built in 1977, this clock is, of course, powered by steam, and every 15 minutes plays a short, whistling tune. Along with hoards of tourists, I secured my spot near the steam clock and waited for it to sound– soon enough, it played, and I was fortunate that I had my phone ready to video-record its entirety, as it lasted no more than 20 seconds. I saw some tourists who weren’t prepared with their phones and scrambled to get the last notes of the tune on video– otherwise, they’d have to wait another quarter-hour!
Gastown steam clock
Afterwards, I took the bus over to a yarn store across town. My partner loves to knit and stop by yarn shops whenever we travel, so I wanted to get some local yarn as a gift while in town. Following my purchase, I returned to the hotel and met up with “A,” who returned from a leisurely day on Granville Island. Unfortunately, that was when the food poisoning hit, and it wasn’t pleasant…
However, “A” and I had plans to dine at a Michelin-starred restaurant that evening; I have a relative who lives in Vancouver (unfortunately, she was out of town during my visit), and had been recommended to try this place. Crazy as it sounds, I was determined not to let the food poisoning deter me from going, so after I felt more-stable, “A” and I took an Uber over to the restaurant for our 17h30 reservation.
Despite not feeling well, I really enjoyed the food at the restaurant. It’s a small, but swanky establishment that serves Japanese-Italian fusion plates to share. Highlights include charcoal udon and pork neck, as well as a fabulous yuzu dessert in the end. Place wasn’t cheap, but surprisingly not outrageously-expensive for a Michelin-starred restaurant at $130 USD ($180 CAD). Stomachs full, we took an Uber back to the hotel to rest after another long, but fun day in town.
Charcoal udon with seafood
Pork neck
Yuzu dessert
Stay tuned for the next (and final) post of Vancouver and my time in Canada! 🙂
— Rebecca
Rebecca Goes Rendezvous 
How disappointing about the food poisoning! So glad the effects didn’t hit while you were airborne. I have learned my lesson (I think?), if it doesn’t taste good, I don’t finish it. The views from the air look worth the price. Fancy evening adventure!
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Yes, it was my mistake to eat the majority of the contaminated food; even though it didn’t taste good, I didn’t want to waste $20 CAD of it! Lesson learned for next time…
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Vancouver looks amazing and seems you had great weather.
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We really lucked out with the weather!
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Another great post on your time in Vancouver. I also vaguely remember seeing the Gastown clock strike. I’m so pleased you managed to book onto a seaplane tour. We didn’t try for one in Vancouver but during our stay on Vancouver Island we had booked one there for the four of us. Unfortunately the weather was against us and it had to be cancelled so we never got to do it. We should have booked one earlier in the week so that it could be rearranged if needed but we didn’t think of weather issues in mid summer! Still.not been on a seaplane!
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The Harbour Air seaplane was a fun experience! I agree with you, though, that weather has to be good in order to fly. It’s a shame you missed out, but should you return to that part of Canada, it’s worth trying again!
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The seaplane trip looked amazing
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It was amazing! Expensive, but highly worth it!
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I think I’d like Vancouver! Food poisoning is bad enough not on vacations, you’re a trooper. That sea plane looks like a very cool experience and you couldn’t have asked for better weather. The Michelin star meal looks fantastic!
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Yes! Somehow, I made it through the Michelin dinner despite feeling unwell, and I still enjoyed the meal, probably one of the best I’ve had in a long time! Taking the seaplane is totally worth it, especially for aerial views of the city!
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At first I wondered how you could get a photo of Vancouver from such a high vantage point like in your opening shot. Then I realized that you took a seaplane, of course! Food poisoning is really something we wish won’t happen especially when we’re traveling. I’m sorry that you had it on an otherwise beautiful day. The food you took pictures of looks really good though, and I’m especially intrigued by the Nanaimo bar.
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Indeed! Photos from the seaplane were stunning, even more so during the fall season. Getting food poisoning wasn’t fun, but at least it came and went fairly quickly, so I could still enjoy the last of my time in Vancouver! The Nanaimo bar is rich and sweet: if you like chocolate and coconut, you’ll enjoy this treat!
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The views from the seaplane are great. Sorry to hear about the pad thai and the discomfort. I’m glad you had a better experience at the Japanese-Italian fusion restaurant. I like Nanaimo bars – yummy! What did you think of it?
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Despite the food poisoning, I had a good day filled with stunning seaplane views and delicious Michelin food. The Nanaimo bar was tasty, but very rich; I was good after one bite!
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Great city. Too bad you got good poisoning
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typo, I meant food poisoning not good poisoning obviously
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Haha, it was far from feeling good!! I appreciate your concern, and fortunately, the food poisoning came and went pretty fast; I was still able to enjoy the rest of my time in Vancouver!
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The seaplane views look incredible, and Granville Island sounds like such a fun spot (minus the pad Thai incident 😅). Loved reading about all your little adventures, and can’t wait for the final post!”
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Thanks! Getting food poisoning wasn’t great, but I didn’t let it deter me from enjoying the rest of my time in Vancouver! Last post will be up soon!
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“Glad it didn’t slow you down too much! Your positivity really shines through. 😊 Can’t wait to read the final post. Vancouver adventures have been such a fun ride to follow!
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I really sympathise about the food poisoning as it’s something I’m prone to – I know how awful it can make you feel. I’m amazed you still went to the Michelin starred restaurant even though it does sound good! The sea plane flight looks fantastic! We did one from Tofino on Vancouver Island and loved seeing that coast from the air (plus some bonus whales!)
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Despite feeling unwell, I was determined not to skip out on the Michelin-starred restaurant– honestly, I’m glad I didn’t, as it was one of the best meals I had on the trip! The seaplane was a lot of fun, and I’m glad you got to experience the thrill of traveling by sea and air!
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The seaplane sounds so fun! The food poisoning, less so. I’m glad it didn’t completely ruin your day, though.
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Yes, indeed! The Harbour Air seaplane was a fun time, and honestly a highlight of my time in Vancouver. Getting food poisoning wasn’t great, but thankfully, it came and went fairly quickly, so I was still able to enjoy the last of my time in town!
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It’s exciting travelling in a small plane. Last time I did that was over the Nazca Lines. The winds were strong that day and the plane got thrown all over the sky.. Although I did see some of the lines, I spent most of the time carefully attending my sick bag. The bag…… was included in the price haha!
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That’s exciting (and scary)! It’s so cool you got to fly over the Nazca Lines, although the turbulent winds don’t sound appealing…I’d take my calm seaplane ride over that any day!
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Your wonderful post brought back cherished memories from my time in Vancouver. Visiting Granville Island was one of the highlights, as I am a sucker for vibrant markets, eclectic shops, and waterfront views. I would love to go back one day because we didn’t have the time to go for a ride with a seaplane – it is such a unique experience that lets you take in incredible aerial views of the city, mountains, and coast. Thanks for sharing, and have a good day 🙂 Aiva xx
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I’m happy you’ve been to Vancouver and had a good time! Granville was charming, and I highly recommend taking the seaplane should you return some day. The seaplane offers a unique perspective of Vancouver from above! Thanks for reading, Aiva, and have a great weekend! 😊
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🥰🥰🥰
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It’s disappointing about the food poisoning, but it seems like you powered through. Vancouver is such a great city. Your wonderful photos brought back some nice memories of my time there. Great post!
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Yes! Despite the food poisoning, I knew I had to make it to the Michelin restaurant, and I managed! Vancouver is such a lovely city, and I’m glad you have fond memories there 😊
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That aerial tour sounds and looks like such fun! Sorry to hear about the food poisoning; at least it passed quickly.
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The seaplane was a lot of fun! The food poisoning wasn’t great, but as you said, it came and went quickly! One more post on Vancouver is coming soon!
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You covered Vancouver well. I’m sorry to hear about your food poisoning. Good to know you recovered quickly.
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Thank you! Getting food poisoning wasn’t fun, but luckily, I recovered fast enough to enjoy the last of my time in Vancouver!
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What a day! I love the look of the seaplane tour (you had perfect weather for it), and the steam powered clock is cool! I’m so sorry about the food poisoning though – it’s awful when that hits. And I’m so impressed you managed dinner whilst still struggling!
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Thanks, Han! Despite food poisoning, I wasn’t going to miss the opportunity to try a Michelin restaurant, and I’m glad I didn’t miss it! Absolutely no regrets. The seaplane was an extraordinary opportunity, and I’m happy it was such a clear day! Stay tuned for the last post on Vancouver (and Canada) soon!
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Vancouver looks sensational! My husband has relatives there but so far we have not made it to visit. Looks great and maybe someday!
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I hope you can make it over to Vancouver some day! It’s a fantastic city and all the better you have family there as an excuse to visit!
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I love public markets like that – we went to one in Toronto – but ugh, the food poisoning. I applaud you for going out to dinner at the tail end of it. I’m not sure I could have pulled that off. I’ve heard of Nanaimo bars and know they’re a Canadian thing, but you’re going to have to help me with the pronunciation. There are several possible ways to pronounce that group of letters! 🙂 I’m not a big fan of small planes, but the bird’s eye view is fantastic.
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Getting food poisoning was unpleasant, but I didn’t let it deter me from trying the Michelin restaurant, and I have no regrets! I pronounce it “Nah-NYE-Noh” bars, but maybe I’m not saying it correctly, either! Taking the seaplane was probably one of the highlights of my time in Vancouver, and I highly recommend it to anyone visiting!
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The seaplane looks like a unique, exciting way to see the area. A shame about the food poisoning, but good for you for going to that excellent restaurant anyway. Not to be missed!
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Indeed! Despite getting food poisoning, I have no regrets in toughing it out and making it to the Michelin restaurant. The seaplane was a lot of fun and honestly a highlight of my time in Vancouver!
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Wow! What spectacular views from the sea plane. I don’t think I’d be brave enough to take a ride in one of those. I’m sorry you got sick but glad you were able to enjoy the Michelin-starred restaurant. Such a great price, too!
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Yes, the seaplane was a thrilling flight, a highlight of my time in Vancouver! Getting food poisoning wasn’t fun, but it didn’t deter me from trying the Michelin restaurant that evening. No regrets!
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What an incredibly attractive looking city Vancouver is Rebecca, not least from that cover photo all the fabulous seaplane views where you can witness all the beauty that surrounds its modern high-rise sprawl. I am familiar with False Creek and the ferry from Allan Gould’s (Picture This) blog, you certainly had a fantastic blue sky day for it. The market looks great, a bit of a throwback, but then what a horrific outcome from your dish! Disaster. Your later food looks much more like it, pork neck is one of my favourites.
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Vancouver is such a lovely city, with a blend of urban and nature all in one. Granville Island was a fun half day spent, although the food poisoning wasn’t great…that didn’t stop me from powering through and eating at the Michelin restaurant– such a wonderful (and delicious) experience!
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I took the seaplane from Vancouver to Tofino on Vancouver Island and it was my favourite part of the trip. Did you end up on the island at all during your trip? Glad you enjoyed your time in western Canada!
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Unfortunately, I didn’t have time to make it to Vancouver Island this time; I hope to check it out the next time I’m back! It was a short, but fun trip through western Canada, and I’m dying to return to Canada sooner than later, perhaps to check out the east coast (i.e. the Maritimes)!
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I applaud you for taking the seaplane. I’ve wanted to do that for a long time, but I’ve never gotten around to it, even though it’s so typical of northern Canada. It’s also a bit expensive, so I’ve put it off. Vancouver is a great city to visit, with a little bit of everything, even a yarn shop, which I didn’t know about.
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Taking the Harbour Air seaplane is expensive, but highly worth it! Honestly, it was one of the highlights of my time in Vancouver, and I encourage you to try it out if you return to the city!
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Argh, sorry to hear you got food poisoning! That’s such a shame, as Granville Island has some great food. I always loved a browse there. The sea plane looks AMAZING! I never got to do that while I was there but it’s definitely going on my list for next time.
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Getting food poisoning wasn’t fun, but thankfully, it didn’t last too long! Regardless, I enjoyed Granville Island and the sea plane was certainly a highlight of my time in Vancouver; I hope you get to take the sea plane upon a return visit to this part of Canada!
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Ooh, mangosteen! It’s not often you come across that. I’ve occasionally seen it in Costco, but I’m never convinced it’ll taste as good as when I had it in Hong Kong. I love the aerial views of Vancouver – I agree that although it’s on the pricey side, it’s worth splurging every once in a while for experiences like those! Glad the food poisoning passed quickly and you were still able to make your dinner reservation.
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Yes, Granville Island had a plethora of produce, including some that you can’t really get in North America (mangosteen included)! Getting food poisoning wasn’t fun, but thankfully it came and went fairly quickly, and I was still able to enjoy the Michelin dinner!
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