Lake Minnewanka Cruise
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The Lake Minnewanka Cruise is an hour-long panoramic cruise along Banff’s largest lake. The grand and storied lake is best observed from the water as its scale makes it difficult to appreciate from the lakeshore. Visitors have been cruising along the lake to take in its natural beauty for over a century.
At the lake’s end lies Devil’s Gap, a unique natural feature that looks out to the east and the plains of Alberta while enveloped in a mountain amphitheater. In the distant east, verdant prairie land peeks through, providing a captivating backdrop.
To explore this hidden gem on foot, one must embark on a 30-kilometer journey into the remote Canadian Rockies and camp along the shores. However, this can be reached on a Lake Minnewanka Cruise in 30 minutes, making the cruise well worth it.
Book The Cruise
Cruise Options
| Tour | Length | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Lake Minnewanka Classic Cruise | 1 Hour | Standard cruise with a short visit to Devil’s Gap |
| Lake Minnewanka Premium Cruise | 1.5 Hour | Includes a longer stop to view Devil’s Gap. |
| Beer Voyage Cruise | 1.5 Hour | 90-minute cruise runs daily at 5pm and allows guests to enjoy local craft brews while enjoying the views. |
| Junior Explorers Cruise | 1 Hour | Classic cruise with an interactive program designed for kids under 12 |
There are four cruise options on Lake Minnewanka. The classic route is the most common, and it’s a one-hour experience that runs almost every half hour. This tour is included with “Pursuit Pass,” which includes other attractions such as the Banff Gondola and Columbia Icefield Explorer Tour.
Most similar to the classic cruise is the “Junior Explorers” cruise, which operates once a day and is designed for children (6-12) with an interactive program on board.
Once a day, they offer a Premium Cruise and a Beer Cruise. Both are extended 1.5-hour cruises that reach closer to Devil’s Gap and stop the boat’s engines for 10 minutes to appreciate the natural scenery. The Premium Cruise operates in the morning with light snacks and tea, while the Beer Cruise runs in the evening with a selection of beers from local breweries.
Important Details For Lake Minnewanka Cruise
- This is a summer-only experience.
- There is parking at Lake Minnewanka, but you can also take Roam Route 6 from Downtown Banff to Lake Minnewanka. Those with cruise tickets can board the ROAM bus for free from Downtown Banff. The bus route also stops at Two Jack Lake, Johnson Lake, and Cascade Ponds. Rides are $2 for adults and $1 for children. This bus only runs in the summer.
- There is no bathroom on board. So those that enjoy the Beer Cruise should take note of that.
- Booking the cruise in advance is highly recommended, although if space is available, they do accept walk-ons.
Dates & Times
| May 10 – October 14, 2024 | (09:00 am – 5:00 pm) subject to weather |
Advanced Purchase Pricing
| Cruise | Ticket Price |
|---|---|
| Classic Cruise | $73.00/adult and $47.45/child |
| Premium Cruise (1.5 hrs) | $74.00/adult and $48.10/child |
| Beer Voyage Cruise (1.5 hrs) | $98.00/adult |
| Age 5 & Under | Free |
| Pursuit Pass Lite (Banff Gondola, Columbia Icefield Adventure, and Minnewanka Cruise) | $229.00/adult and $149/child. |
| Pursuit Pass Rockies Value (Banff Gondola, Lake Minnewanka Cruise, Columbia Icefield Adventure, Maligne Lake Cruise, and Golden Skybridge) | $300.00/adult and $195/child |
