Maligne Lake Cruise
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A cruise along Maligne Lake is astounding. It’s one of the few activities every traveler to the Canadian Rockies should add to their itinerary. The lake is flanked by a box canyon, aptly named The Hall of Gods due to its grandeur. No point is better from which to appreciate this view than across from the culturally significant Spirit Island. Regarding the lake’s beauty, Mary Schaeffer, one of the first European travelers to visit it, said, “If Lake Louise is a pearl, Maligne is the entire pearl necklace.”
The best way to enjoy the lake is via a scenic cruise. The 1.5-hour panoramic cruise heads to Spirit Island, 14 km up the lake. It takes about a half-hour to get to the island, and once there, guests get 15 minutes off the boat for photos before the return journey unless on the Premium Tour.
During the cruise, a guide will tell you about the lake, its history, and its importance to the area. You’ll learn a bit about the Stoney Nakoda people and the cultural significance Maligne Lake and Spirit Island play to them. There’s plenty of time to take in the views, and while cruising down the lake, it’s possible to step out on the boat’s back deck.
Book The Cruise
Cruise Options
There are two Maligne Lake Cruises: the standard and the premium. Both book well in advance, and booking ahead is essential. If you’re passionate about photography, we recommend booking the Premium Cruise, which runs once a day.
| Cruise | Description | Length | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Classic Cruise | Classic cruise to Spirit Island with a 15-minute stop. | 1.5 hour | $82/adult & $55.25/child |
| Premium Cruise | A 30-minute stop at Spirit Island in the evening light, and visits Pincushion Bay. | 2 hours | Cruise $109/adult and $87.85/child |
| Pursuit Pass Rockies Value | Banff Gondola, Lake Minnewanka Cruise, Columbia Icefield Adventure, Maligne Lake Cruise, and Golden Skybridge | 1.5 hour | $300.00/adult and $195/child |
Dates & Times
| May 31 – October 13, 2024 | (09:00 a.m. to 4:30-6:00 p.m.) |
Important Details For The Cruise
- This is a summer-only experience.
- It’s highly recommended that you book the cruise in advance. This cruise, especially the Premium Cruise, sells out nearly every day in the summer.
- We suggest a 1.5-hour drive from Jasper to the boat dock.
- If you plan to hike Maligne Lake Canyon, consider the hike after your cruise so you do not miss your departure time. The same goes for any other stops along the way, such as Medicine Lake.
- No bathroom on board.
- There is a cafe/waffle house, restaurant, and gift shop at the boat docks if you want something to eat. We can also recommend the restaurant at Maligne Lake Canyon if you’re looking for lunch after your cruise.
