Taking a Whistler seaplane tour is the best way to take in the spectacular alpine scenery that defines North America’s largest ski resort.
Whether you’re a tourist or a local looking for a new perspective, it’s something to at least consider.
But is it worth the price? Let’s break down the Whistler seaplane tour options to see if one is right for you.
Whistler Seaplane Tours: Basic Floatplane Info
If you’re here, it’s probably because you’re looking for some unique, thrilling alpine fun – nice start.
And, of course, unless you’re replicating Sylvester Stallone in Cliffhanger, there’s no better way to soak in the majestic glaciers and rugged alpine peaks than a Whistler floatplane tour.
Having said that, there’s no need to be taken for a ride (literally and figuratively) in a town of high prices, so let’s get up in the air.
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Whistler Floatplane Tours
There are three Whistler floatplane tours to choose from. Each tour generally includes:
- An exciting seaplane ride that ranges from 20 minutes – 2 hours
- The stunning scenery of Whistler Village, Green Lake, majestic glaciers, rugged peaks, unique volcanic formations, lush alpine meadows and much more
- A ride with the world’s largest all-seaplane fleet
- Respect for the environment aboard the first carbon-neutral airline in North America
- The possibility of booking now and paying later
- Free cancellation tickets up to 24 hours before take-off
- Carbon offset charges included
Here’s a sneak preview of a Whistler float plane trip to get you up to speed:
As you can see, this is quite a scenic trip and a great way to elevate your trip to Whistler.
In general, guests on Whistler floatplane tours are very satisfied with the service:
Want to check out the customer reviews that made this rating? You can see them on the Whistler seaplane tour booking platform.
In the meantime, let’s get on to the prices and floatplane tour schedules to help you make a better decision.
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The Whistler Seaplane Tours
Whistler Valley Tour by Seaplane – The Cheapest Whistler Seaplane Tour
Duration: 20 minutes | Departure Time: 11:00 am | Price: $132.00 CAD
This 20-minute basic tour gives travellers a scenic introduction to floatplane aviation, allowing you to get your ‘air legs’ (so to speak) without breaking the bank.
You’ll depart from the Green Lake seaplane base before enjoying stunning vistas of the Whistler Valley – including Whistler Village and several monuments from the 2010 Winter Olympics.
You’ll also receive a bird’s-eye view of jutting mountain peaks, alpine lakes, lush meadows and the spectacular cascades of Brandywine Falls.
If you’re on the fence about how you’ll react to being on one of these planes but still can’t resist, this is the one for you!
Lock In Seats With No Money Down
Looking for a cheap bed? Check out our guide to Cheap Whistler Hotels before booking.
Whistler Glacier Tour by Seaplane – Best Floatplane Tour from Whistler
Duration: 30 minutes | Departure Times: 12:00 pm/1:00 pm | Price: $199.00 CAD
This more extensive tour involves even more of Whistler’s majestic mountains and glaciers as you soar high over the area’s beautiful natural scenery – on which the glacier seaplane tour is most focused.
The area’s rugged peaks, unique volcanic formations, and lush alpine meadows are of particular interest here.
However, the true highlight is the spectacular turquoise waters of mile-high Garibaldi Lake (see the video above).
This is the option for floatplane veterans looking to maximize scenery.
Glacier Tour Tickets With No Money Down
Whistler Alpine Lake Landing Tour – Best Whistler Seaplane Tour for Outdoors
Duration: 2 hours | Departure Time: 11:00 am | Price: $369.00 CAD
Imagine a remote glacial lake nestled between jutting peaks covered with icy blue glaciers, those ones from the Canadian postcards.
Then imagine descending over a gorgeous waterfall and pulling up to a pristine, unspoiled golden sandy beach – yes, this is all possible on the same flight!
If you want to breathe in rural mountain air miles from civilization, in an area which normally takes 5 hours to hike, then this is the only way to do it!
There’s even the chance to add on a lakeside picnic lunch.
Lake Floatplane Tickets With No Money Down
Whistler Seaplane Tour Cost
Whistler seaplane tour tickets cost the following:
- Whistler Valley Tour by Seaplane (20 min): $132.00 CAD
- Whistler Glacier Tour by Seaplane (30 min): $199.00 CAD
- Whistler Alpine Lake Landing Tour (2 hours): $369.00 CAD
Passengers under the age of 12 can travel for around half the cost of a full fare – while infants can travel for free, provided they don’t require their own seat.
Only ten seats are available per flight, so booking your tickets well in advance is recommended.
If you book via the buttons above, you’ll be granted the book now and pay later option.
You’ll also have the flexibility to cancel up to 24 hours prior to departure.
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Is it Worth it to Take a Whistler Seaplane Tour?
Budget travellers may find Whistler floatplane tour prices out of reach, and that’s fine.
A great cheap yet scenic alternative is to hike Joffre Lakes Park – the three glacial lakes there are as stunning as anything the Rocky Mountains can offer.
You may also want to consider any of our other top things to do in Whistler.
That said, how often can you take an aerial tour of one of the most beautiful alpine regions on earth?
You’re paying the money for a once-in-a-lifetime experience, full stop.
This is an ideal splurge activity to elevate your mountain holiday or to celebrate with a loved one.
Also, if you run into a rainy forecast, you can always cancel, provided you do so 24 hours in advance.
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Whistler Seaplane Tour Schedule
The Whistler Seaplane tours are offered daily from May to October, with the exception of the alpine lake landing tour, which is offered daily from mid-June to October.
Flights currently departure at the following times:
- Whistler Valley Seaplane Tour – 11:00 am
- Whistler Spectacular Glacial Seaplane Tour – 12:00 pm/1:00 pm
- Whistler Alpine Lake Landing Tour by Seaplane – 11:00 am
*Exact departure times are subject to change based on the season.
Related: The 6 Best Whistler Tours from Vancouver
Top Seaplane Tours of Whistler FAQs
How much does a seaplane tour of Whistler cost?
Whistler seaplane tours vary in cost depending on which package you select. The rates for adults are currently as follows:
- Whistler Valley Seaplane Tour – $132.00 CAD
- Whistler Spectacular Glacial Seaplane Tour – $199.00 CAD
- Whistler Alpine Lake Landing Tour by Seaplane – $369.00 CAD
Rates for children are generally slightly less than half the cost, while infants are free with an accompanying adult – provided they don’t require their own seat.
Are the Whistler seaplane tours scary?
If you’re used to taking normal flights with jets, travel on floatplanes shouldn’t be a problem.
In fact, many fliers have indicated that they find the lower cruising altitude reassuring. And better yet, some passengers don’t even feel the water landings:
Where is the Whistler Seaplane terminal located?
The Whistler Seaplane Terminal is found on Green Lake, at 8069 Nicklaus North Boulevard around 3 km north of Whistler Village.
What will I see on Whistler seaplane tours?
While the experience differs slightly depending on the package selected, all seaplanes take off from Green Lake – and immediately provide spectacular views of the lake, Whistler Village and nearby alpine scenery.
Afterwards, each tour is focused on a specific aspect of the region, such as;
- Whistler Valley Tour: Whistler Village, Whistler Valley, Olympic venues/monuments, Brandywine Falls.
- Whistler Glacier Tour: Natural alpine scenery (local glaciers, rugged peaks, unique volcanic formations, lush alpine meadows, alpine lakes, + more)
- Whistler Alpine Lake Landing Tour: Whistler Glacier Tour + landing on a remote alpine lake and spending time on a golden sandy beach.
What do I need to bring with me on my Whistler floatplane tour?
There’s no specific need to bring provisions of any sort for most tours, as the rides are fairly short.
However, every guest will need to bring a piece of photo ID (passport or ID card) in order to board. I also highly recommend bringing a camera, as the region’s alpine scenery is virtually unparalleled.
Smartphones aren’t always up to the task when long zooms are required.
However, if you embark on the Alpine Lake Landing Tour, you may want to pack a jacket or hoody – as you will be deplaning in a remote mountain environment. The weather can often be cooler at altitude, even in the heart of summer.
Feel free to bring snacks as well since this tour lasts 2 hours.
Ready for the Best Seaplane Tour of Whistler?
I aim to answer every question about living and travelling in Vancouver and Whistler as well.
I hope I’ve managed to tick another off here.
That said, if there’s something I missed about the Whistler seaplane tours, don’t be afraid to hit me up in the comments below.
Enjoy your flight⛰
Photo credits: Harbour Air
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