Maligne Lake Boat Cruise

Boat Cruise

Boat cruise on Maligne Lake, located in Jasper National Park.

Enjoy views of the Canadian Rockies, Spirit Island, and sprawling forests.

Maligne Lake Cruise

Jasper Maligne Lake Boat Cruise

Maligne Boat Cruise

Jasper Maligne Lake Boat Cruise

Jasper Maligne Lake Boat Cruise

Jasper Maligne Lake Boat Cruise

Jasper's Maligne Lake Boat Cruise

Fully narrated cruise takes you along Maligne Lake to Spirit Island in Jasper National Park.

Jasper Maligne Lake Boat Cruise

Maligne Lake Boat Cruise Overview

What to expect on the maligne lake boat cruise, maligne lake boat cruise itinerary, cruise glacial water of maligne lake and take in the spirit of jasper, best time for the maligne lake boat cruise, premium maligne lake boat cruise, 2024 maligne lake boat cruise daily operating hours, maligne lake boat cruise, 5.5 hour jasper wildlife and waterfalls tour with maligne lake cruise.

Discover top natural attractions such as Maligne Canyon and Medicine Lake on foot, and enjoy a scenic cruise on Maligne Lake.

Book Jasper 5.5 Hour Maligne Boat Cruise & Maligne Valley Tour

Jasper Wildlife and Waterfalls Tour with Maligne Lake Boat Cruise

What to expect on the 5.5 hour jasper wildlife and waterfalls tour with maligne lake cruise, 5.5 hour jasper wildlife and waterfalls tour with maligne lake cruise itinerary, additional 5.5 hour jasper wildlife and waterfalls tour with maligne lake cruise info, jasper sightseeing tour & maligne lake boat cruise.

Fully narrated Jasper Sightseeing Tour and Boat cruise takes you along Maligne Lake to Spirit Island in Jasper National Park.

Jasper Sightseeing Tour & Maligne Lake Boat Cruise

What To Expect on the Jasper Sightseeing Tour & Maligne Lake Boat Cruise

Jasper sightseeing tour & maligne lake boat cruise itinerary, more jasper maligne valley and maligne lake boat cruises, inside maligne lake boat cruise.

Who is Fred Brewster?

Who is Fred Brewster?

Maligne Lake's different Boat Tours & Rentals

Maligne Lake's different Boat Tours & Rentals.

Maligne Lake Chalet or Lodge

Maligne Lake Chalet or Lodge.

Jasper Maligne Lake Boat House

Jasper Maligne Lake Boat House.

Weddings at Maligne Lake Chalet

Weddings at Maligne Lake Chalet.

Maligne Lake Boat Cruise Restaurant Deck

Maligne Lake Boat Cruise Restaurant Deck.

Maligne Lake Boat Cruise Waffle House

Maligne Lake Waffle House.

Maligne Lake Boat Cruise Weather

Maligne Lake Boat Cruise Weather.

Maligne Lake Boat Cruise Reviews

#

A wonderful trip! The guide on the boat was both entertaining and knowledgeable. Great opportunity to take some wonderful photographs.

Enjoyed our boat ride out and back as well as walking some trails around the headquarters. Need to add another 5-10 minutes to the stop at Spirit Island. Seemed like we were rushed. Maligne Canyon on the way back to Jasper was a perfect way to complete the trip!

The Maligne Lake Cruise shouldn't be missed. magnificent scenery..... One piece of advice book your cruise ahead, boats were completely booked when we arrived. It's a long beautiful drive out to the lake but knowing your cruise time ahead reduces stress and who needs that when traveling.... Staff was knowledgeable and friendly. If your in Jasper you've got to go!!!

Great cruise, the scenes was beyond belief! So beautiful, and the guides were very informative. highly recommend.

Jasper Maligne Lake Map

Up Maligne Road from Jasper.

Contact Maligne Lake Boat Cruise

Click to Contact Us

Discover Jasper

Things to do, where to stay, plan your trip.

About Jasper

  • Jasper's History
  • Jasper National Park
  • Dark Sky Preserve
  • Community Resources
  • Weather & Climate
  • LGBTQ Jasper
  • Venture Beyond
  • Live and Work in Jasper
  • Jasper the Bear Scavenger Hunt

More Information

  • Getting Here
  • Work in Jasper
  • Events in Jasper
  • Travel Tips

Experiences

  • Ski & Snowboard at Marmot Basin
  • Snow & Ice
  • Hiking, Walking & Biking
  • Tours & Sightseeing
  • Rafting, Canoeing & Water Sports
  • Wildlife Viewing
  • Jasper SkyTram
  • Spa & Wellness
  • Arts, Culture & Planetarium
  • Jasper Restaurants
  • Horseback Riding
  • All Experiences

Accommodations

  • All Accommodations
  • Inns, Hotels & Hostels
  • Cabins & Lodges
  • Pet Friendly
  • Current Deals
  • Season & Climate
  • Visitor's Guide

Planning Information

  • Visitor Information Centre
  • Trip Services
  • Covid-19 Information
  • Weather and Climate
  • Jasper's Story
  • Travel Trade
  • Groups and Meetings
  • About Tourism Jasper
  • Staff Directory

Visitor Guide - 2023 - 2024-Cover Page

2023 Visitor's Guide

Maligne lake classic cruise.

by Maligne Lake Cruise

Spirit Island Maligne Lake

Declared the "Best Boat Cruise in Canada” by 8 million Reader’s Digest subscribers, the Maligne Lake Cruise is an experience like no other.

Sail 14 kilometres along Maligne Lake on The Maligne Lake Cruise, past towering peaks & glaciers, to the peaceful and remarkable Spirit Island. Sit back, relax and enjoy vibrant stories from the onboard tour guide, including the history of Maligne Lake and its earliest explorers, along with the geology, glaciology, flora & fauna of the area.

Upon arrival at Spirit Island, the Maligne Lake Cruise docks and guests are able to disembark and enjoy a short nature trail leading to a viewing platform for one the best views in Jasper National Park: Maligne Lake’s Spirit Island.

  • Guided Maligne Lake Cruise to Spirit Island
  • Free time at Spirit Island
  • Return cruise to Home Bay

Duration: 1.5 hours

(866) 606-6700

Visit Website

Maligne Rd Jasper , AB Canada T0E 1E0

Social Media

SpiritIsland-large.jpg

See all Spirit Island experiences here

Surrounded by breathtaking mountains, glacier-fed Maligne Lake is world-renowned for its beauty and is home to the world-famous Spirit Island. Experience these iconic locations in a completely unique way.

Visitor Guide - 2023 - 2024-Cover Page

Newsletter Sign Up

Receive deals, news and more!

  • Sign Up For Our Newsletter

© Copyright 2024 Tourism Jasper | Legal & Privacy

groupon maligne lake cruise

cropped-Header-Logo.jpg

The Journeying Giordano's contains affiliate links and is a member of the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. If you make a purchase using one of my affiliate links, I may receive compensation at no extra cost to you. See my Disclosure Policy for more information.

Maligne Lake Cruise to Spirit Island – Know Before You Go

' src=

Maligne Lake Cruise to Spirit Island

Is taking a Malign Lake cruise worth it? Maligne Lake and Spirit Island are definitely bucket list-worthy destinations for any trip to Jasper National Park.

The breathtaking mountains, turquoise glacial-fed lake and tree-lined island make it one of the most photographed places in the Canadian Rockies. And in our opinion, one of the best ways to experience these incredible vistas is to take a Maligne Lake cruise.

In fact, our Maligne Lake Cruise ended up being one of the highlights of our trip to Jasper! The cruise was very family-friendly, just the right amount of time, and we were able to learn so much about the area from our knowledgeable guides.

So, yes! Taking a Maligne Lake Cruise to Spirit Island is definitely worth it if you are visiting Jasper National Park.

groupon maligne lake cruise

Best Maligne Lake & Spirit Island Cruise

🚢 Looking for the best Maligne Lake and Spirit Island Cruise? Jasper National Park Tour: Maligne Valley, Medicine Lake and Spirit Island is the best cruise option with over 300 stellar reviews! ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

On the fence about whether or not to take the Maligne Lake Cruise while visiting Jasper? We cover everything there is to know about the experience, and why you need to add it to your Alberta bucket list.

Things-to-do-in-Alberta-Jasper-Spirit-Island-boy

Where is Maligne Lake?

Maligne Lake is located in Jasper National Park, approximately one hour from the Jasper townsite. At nearly 23km, Maligne Lake is the longest natural lake in the Canadian Rockies and the second-largest glacier-fed lake in the world.

How Do You Pronounce Maligne?

Thought to come from the French word for malignant or malicious, Maligne is pronounced  MAH-LEEN  (not ‘Malig-nee’ or ‘Ma-line’). It is believed that the lake was given its name due to the turbulent river that flows from the lake and through the canyon and mountains.

It is also possible that early French traders gave the river and lake its name, due to the river’s treacherous confluence (or meeting) with the Athabasca River.

Things to do in Jasper - Maligne Lake with boy

How Long is the Maligne Lake cruise?

There are two Maligne Lake cruise options to choose from. The 1.5-hour Classic Cruise includes 15 minutes of free time at the world-famous Spirit Island.

If you decide to go with the Premium Cruise, it is 2 hours in length and allows for 30 minutes of free time at Spirit Island. There is also a brief stop at Pincushion Bay to soak in the incredible views.

The cruises are popular, especially during the peak season. Our recommendation is to make your reservations online as soon as possible, as dates often sell out quickly.

The Drive Up To Maligne Lake

If you are heading to Maligne Lake from the Jasper townsite, you are looking at just under a 1-hour drive. The route is quite scenic, taking you through lush forests and along Medicine Lake.

The drive is very straightforward. When you leave Jasper, take Highway 16 east for about 3 km and then take the turnoff for Maligne Lake Road.

Maligne-Lake-Cruise-river

Once you cross the iron bridge over the Athabasca River, stay to the left at the fork in the road. Follow the road until you reach the Maligne Lake parking area, which is pretty hard to miss.

Our advice is to be aware of the speed limit and take it slow.

Expect To See Some Wildlife

Jasper National Park is filled with a variety of wildlife including caribou, elk, moose, mountain goats, bighorn sheep, bears, and wolves, as well as many smaller creatures like marmots and pikas.

And the drive along Maligne Lake road is an awesome opportunity for wildlife sightings.

Maligne-Lake-Cruise-Animal-sighting-Big-Horned-Sheep

In fact, chances are pretty good you are going to run into an “animal jam” on the way to Maligne Lake.

An Animal Jam is where wildlife is either blocking the road and causing traffic to come to a stand-still or, there are people slowing down to look at wildlife at the side of the road, causing a slow-down.

We lost count after seeing about 20 moose of various sizes, and several big-horned sheep on our trip to Maligne Lake.

Our advice is to give yourself extra time to get to your cruise (at least 1 – 1.5 hours if coming from Jasper), just in case you get stuck in traffic.

Things-to-do-in-Jasper-Moose-in-National-Park

And don’t forget to show these amazing animals the respect that they deserve. Give them plenty of space, stay in your car, and most importantly, DO NOT FEED the animals!

It is not safe, will make the animal sick, could get them killed, AND you can earn yourself an eye-watering fine if you are caught!

Arriving at Maligne Lake And Heading To The Dock

When you reach the Maligne Lake area, the first public parking lot is to the left, where you will find plenty of free parking. From the lot, follow the short trail through the forest to Maligne Lake.

Maligne-Lake-Cruise-Parks-Canada-sign

The trail will take you to the ticket office, boathouse, Lakehouse, and Historic Chalet. Head straight down to the docks, where staff will be waiting to check you in for your cruise.

Maligne-Lake-Cruise-Ticket-booth

It is recommended that you arrive at least half-hour before your cruise departure.

The Boat Ride

The boats used for the Maligne Lake cruises are on the smaller side. Inside, you will find two rows of bench seating, which accommodate 3-4 people per bench.

Unfortunately, this means that not everyone will get a window seat. So if sitting at the window is important to you, we suggest lining up early.

There are no strollers allowed on the boats. So families travelling with young children will either need to use a carrier or decide if the kids can manage without.

On the upside, there really isn’t much walking to do once you get to Spirit Island anyway.

The boats are completely enclosed, with fairly large windows, and are fully heated for days that are chilly.

There is also an outdoor deck at the back of the boat where you can feel the wind in your hair as you soak in the scenery.

Maligne-Lake-Cruise-on-the-boat

But just a heads up, only a few people are allowed on the deck at a time. And the downside to standing outside is you will miss the commentary given by the awesome guides, as there are no outdoor speakers.

Sit back and enjoy the ride as the knowledgeable guides give you a little background on the history of Maligne Lake, as well as enlighten you on its geology, wildlife, weather, flora and fauna.

Things-to-do-in-Jasper-Spirit-Island-Cruise-with-boy

Learn how Mary Schäffer, a wealthy Quaker and artist from Philadelphia, received a map in 1907 from an Indigenous guide named Samson Beaver.

In 1908, Mary then set out on an expedition from Banff, becoming the first European to explore the Maligne Lake and valley area.

If Lake Louise is a pearl, Maligne is the entire pearl necklace. Mary Schäffer

Maligne-Lake-Cruise-wake-from-boat

Spirit Island

It will take approximately 30 minutes to arrive at Spirit Island, which is the turnaround point of the cruise. Passengers are then allowed to disembark and explore the area on their own.

Visitors can the short path which forms a loop from the docks to the viewing points overlooking Spirit Island.

The path is uneven at times, with many rocks sticking out of the ground. This may present a challenge to people with mobility issues.

Maligne-Lake-Cruise-Spirit-Island-walking-path

Spirit Island is actually a peninsula with a small grove of trees on it. It only becomes a true island for a few days in the spring when the melting snow and heavy rains cause the water level to rise.

Spirit Island is surrounded by emerald waters and is flanked on three sides by a ring of impressive peaks and glaciers forming a “box canyon” – a narrow canyon with a flat bottom and vertical walls.

🚢 Fun Fact: The colour of the water is different at Spirit Island compared to where cruises depart at the Maligne Lake docks. The water seems to change from turquoise to emerald green the further south on the lake you travel. This is due to the fact that the closer you get to glaciers, the higher the concentration of rock flour from the glaciers can be found in the water.

Will I Get Wet on the Cruise?

For the most part, the answer is ‘no’. The boats used for the cruise are covered. There may be a bit of water spray if the windows are open when the boat picks up speed, or if you are standing outside on the deck.

Maligne-Lake-Cruise-Spirit-Island-upper-view-point

There are only two ways to reach Spirit Island and they are both by boat. Most visitors to Spirit Island will arrive on a guided cruise tour. The other way to reach the island is by personal watercraft such as a canoe or kayak.

Just be advised, personal motorized boats are not allowed on Maligne Lake. Since Spirit Island is located approximately 14 km from the docks at Home Bay, it will be hard to get there on your own. Paddling can take about four hours each way!

Things-to-do-in-Jasper-Boat-at-Spirit-Island

The island is considered a spiritual place for the Stoney Nakoda First Nation , who believe mountains are physical representations of their ancestors.

And because Spirit Island is surrounded on three sides by the same mountain range, this very rare phenomenon makes it particularly significant to the Stoney people.  

Today, the box canyon is referred to as the “Hall of Gods.”

Can You Walk on Spirit Island?

Because the Island is of spiritual significance to the Stoney Nakoda First Nations, and to preserve the area in its natural state, walking onto the island is not permitted out of respect.

When is the Best Time to Take a Maligne Lake Cruise?

The best time to visit Lake Maligne and Spirit Island is from mid-June to late October. This is when Maligne Lake has thawed from the winter and the boat cruises are able to operate.

If you are wondering when is the best time to visit the island from a photography standpoint, aim for late afternoons.

During the summer, the sun moves west across the sky and will shine almost straight down on the island around 4 pm.

Maligne-Lake-Cruise-Spirit-Island-lower-view-point

This magic hour gives the best photo results. But considering Spirit Island is one of the most beautiful and scenic spots in Alberta, we are pretty sure your photos will be stunning no matter what time of day you take them!

🚢 Fun Fact: Apple used an image of Spirit Island when they launched the 2014 iPad model to showcase its heightened photography capabilities.

What Amenities Are Available at Maligne Lake?

You can find restrooms, gift shops, and places to grab a bite when you arrive at Maligne Lake for your cruise. However, once you are on the boat, or at Spirit Island, these amenities become extremely limited.

Restaurants

You will find three food options when you arrive at Maligne Lake. These restaurants only operate seasonally, so you may want to check their availability if you are heading there during the shoulder seasons.

Maligne-Lake-Cruise-Waffle-Hut

Your options include The Lakehouse which serves grab-and-go style food, the Waffle Hut which offers coffee and decadent waffle options, and the View , which is the outdoor lakeside patio restaurant with great a la cart options.

Head into The Lakehouse where you will find a pretty large gift shop, along with the restaurant.

You will be able to find all the usual souvenirs, along with some really unique pieces by local indigenous artists.

Maligne-Lake-Cruise-Inside-gift-shop

Restrooms are available in the parking lot, as well as in the Lakehouse and Waffle Hut. Your best bet is to go before your cruise, as there are no facilities on the boat itself.

Once you reach Spirit Island, you will find environmentally friendly pit toilets there. But seeing as you are only on the island for a very short time, you wouldn’t want to waste it waiting to use the potty!

Other Things to Do at Maligne Lake

Aside from taking a cruise, there are plenty of other great things to do at Maligne Lake. In fact, the lake is one of the most popular recreational areas in Jasper National Park.

Rent a Boat

If you happen to be visiting during the summer months, you can choose to rent canoes, rowboats, Stand Up Paddle Boards and kayaks, for an adventure on the water.

The boathouse by the main docks rents out boats by the hour or the full day.

Boats are rented on a first-come-first-serve basis so the best chance to secure a rental is to arrive early in the morning or late in the evening.

Maligne-Lake-Cruise-boathouse-and-sign

Go for a Hike

Maligne Lake is home to a number of incredible hiking trails. Whether you are looking for a short loop or a longer and more demanding trail, you will find it at Maligne Lake.

Mary Schaffer Loop

  • Length:  3.2 km return loop
  • Duration:  1.0 hour
  • Elevation Gain : 82 meters
  • Difficulty : Easy
  • Best Time To Go:   All Year

This amazing trail will loop through some beautiful forests. It starts and ends at Maligne Lake, and is easy enough that it can be done even in the winter.

This is the busiest trail near Maligne Lake, so try to get on the trail early in the morning or later in the evening.

Maligne-Lake-Cruise-red-chairs

Moose Lake Loop

  • Length:  2.7 km return loop
  • Elevation Gain : 144 meters
  • Difficulty : Easy to moderate

Although this trail is shorter, it has more of an elevation gain to make it a little more challenging. The trail starts at Maligne Lake and takes you over to Moose Lake.

Opal Hills Loop

Length:  7.9 km return loop Duration:  2.5 – 3.0 hours Elevation Gain : 520 meters Difficulty : Difficult Best Time To Go:   All Year

Opal Hills is a longer and more demanding hike near Maligne Lake. Due to its difficulty, you will find very few crowds on this trail.

In the summer, be sure to head to the lake viewpoint. During the winter, this trail is a great place to snowshoe.

Maligne-Lake-Cruise-hiking-trail-signs

Bald Hills Loop

Length:  15 km return loop Duration:  6.5 – 8.0 hours Elevation Gain : 780 meters Difficulty : Difficult Best Time To Go:   All Year

If you are looking for a longer day hike option near Maligne Lake, then the Bald Hills Loop is a perfect choice.

It is pretty steep and demanding at points, so be sure to pack the right gear and bring enough water. Of course, this hike rewards you for your efforts with absolutely amazing views of the mountains, glaciers and lake.

Can You Swim in Maligne Lake?

Swimming in Maligne Lake is allowed, but you do so at your own risk. Even though the gorgeous blue waters look really tempting, the glacier-fed lake remains extremely cold for swimming, even in the hot summer months. 

Maligne-Lake-Cruise-Boathouse-views-from-dock

Can You Fish at Maligne Lake?

Fishing on Maligne Lake is allowed, provided you have a Park pass and fishing permit, and that you are aware of current regulations.

This means you need to know the fishing limits, as well as be able to identify the various fish within the park.

There is no live bait fishing allowed in the park. Kids under the age of 16 are allowed to fish on their accompanied pass, but just be aware, their catch is included within the permit holders’ daily limit.

Maligne-Lake-Cruise-Sampson-Narrows

A daily fishing permit from Parks Canada will cost you $9.80 per person. You can also opt for an annual permit which will cost $34.30.

🚢 S kipped to the bottom? Jasper National Park Tour: Maligne Valley, Medicine Lake and Spirit Island is the best cruise option with over 300 stellar reviews! ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

Final Thoughts on the Maligne Lake Cruise to Spirit Island

Taking a Maligne Lake cruise is definitely one of the best things to do in Jasper National Park. Not only will you experience the incredible beauty of Spirit Island, but you will have the opportunity to learn about the area’s rich history. This cruise should be on everyone’s Alberta bucket list!

Pin This Post for Later!

Maligne-Lake-Cruise-Pinterest-Pin-1

Related Posts:

  • 3 Best Winter Helicopter Tours in Jasper
  • 5 Best Jasper Helicopter Tours for Views of the Rockies
  • 6 Best Jasper White Water Rafting Tours
  • The Ultimate Guide to Visiting Jasper National Park with Kids
  • Maligne Lake Cruise to Spirit Island – Know Before You Go
  • Valley of the Five Lakes Hike in Jasper National Park
  • The 24 Best Things to Do in Jasper National Park with Kids

' src=

Marianne Giordano is the founder and writer for The Journeying Giordano's. Together with her husband, John, and their children, the family has travelled to all 10 Canadian provinces. Marianne is responsible for planning all of her family's travel itineraries and dreaming up new adventures. A Canadian native, Marianne shares all her favourite family-friendly things to do in Canada.

Is the Maligne Lake Cruise to Spirit Island Worth It?

Maligne Lake Cruise

Maligne Lake is one of the most stunning lakes in all of Canada, and embarking on a cruise here offers a front-row seat to this natural spectacle. Venture south, closer to the glaciers, and you’ll be treated to the lake’s captivating emerald hues.

While enjoying the lake from its shores is gratifying enough, there’s another way to experience this water. Enjoying a Maligne Lake cruise is on many visitors Jasper bucket lists. But what can you expect from your time on the water, just how much is the tour, and what’s all this fuss about Spirit Island? Is the Maligne Lake cruise worth the time and money? Let’s break it all down in this Maligne Lake cruise review.

About Maligne Lake & Spirit Island

Maligne Lake

Maligne Lake is an incredible stretch of sheer beauty, spanning 22km from the boat docks to the majestic Spirit Island and the base of the Coronet Glacier. Spirit Island, a charming peninsula, rests 14 kilometers away from the docks and is a special place for the area’s indigenous people.

Maligne Lake is the largest natural lake in the Canadian Rockies, stretching over 22 km. This Alberta lake is not just impressive in size, but it also has an average depth of 35 meters, reaching nearly 100 meters at its deepest points.

Beyond its sheer scale, Maligne Lake is also incredibly blue, and if you hit it on a beautiful summer day, its colors will shine through. Why is it so blue? Like other glacial lakes, as the melting glaciers flow into the lake, they leave behind rock flour, which, when hit by sunlight, creates the lake’s distinctive color.

When Does the Maligne Lake Cruise Run?

Maligne Lake

Maligne Lake cruises only run during the summer and early fall seasons, as the lake freezes over in Jasper in the winter . In 2024, the Maligne Lake Cruise will run daily on the following dates:

Where Do the Cruises Depart From?

Maligne Lake

The Maligne Lake Cruises depart at the end of Maligne Lake Road. This is where you’ll find parking for Maligne Lake, a boat dock, a canoe house, a gift shop, and a few restaurants like The Lake House Café and Waffle Hut.

Maligne Lake Cruise Review & Overview

Maligne Lake Cruise

The Maligne Lake Cruise is one of the most popular things to do in Jasper , and for many, the reason to head to Maligne Lake. The hour-and-a-half panoramic cruise heads to Spirit Island 14 km up the lake. It’s around a half-hour to the island, where guests get 15 minutes off the boat for photos before the return journey unless they purchase a longer tour (we’ll get into that later).

Visitors are guaranteed spectacular mountain vistas while cruising across cerulean water. In fact, if you take a cruise on Maligne Lake, you may even notice that the further south on the lake you travel, the closer you get to glaciers, the more the lake shows off its stunning color! The Maligne Lake Cruise is one of the best things to do in Jasper, especially on a glorious summer day.

During the cruise, there will be a guide to tell you about the lake, its history, and its importance to the area. You’ll learn a bit about the Stoney Nakoda and the cultural significance Maligne Lake plays to them. There’s plenty of time to take in the views, and stepping outside the covered boat is possible to get some fresh air as you’re cruising.

Types of Cruises Offered

Maligne Lake Cruise

Classic Cruise

Embark on a scenic 14-kilometer journey across Maligne Lake until you reach the serene and captivating Spirit Island. On this tour, the knowledgeable tour guides will share vibrant stories, delving into the lake’s history, early explorers, and the region’s geology, glaciology, and diverse flora and fauna.

Upon reaching Spirit Island, the boat docks, allowing guests to disembark and follow a brief nature trail leading to a viewing platform that unveils one of the most breathtaking scenes. The Classic Cruise allows for 15 minutes of free time in the vicinity of Spirit Island.

Premium Cruise

This cruise is almost identical to the Classic Cruise cruise only difference is that you get 30 minutes to explore Spirit Island and an extra stop to enjoy the views at Pincushion Bay.

The Premium Cruise also runs in the evening and is the last cruise of the day. This means you’ll have the best possible light on Spirit Island as you’ll get there around Golden Hour. If you’re a photographer, we recommend booking the Premium Cruise.

Who Runs the Maligne Lake Cruise?

Maligne Lake Cruise

The Maligne Lake Cruise is run by Pursuit Adventures, the same folks who run the Lake Minnewanka Cruise in Banff , the Banff Gondola , Jasper Skywalk , and the Athabasca Glacier Experience.

Amenities Available on the Cruise

There are three types of boats that hold between 38 and 50 passengers. There are not many amenities available actually on the boat, and basically what you will find are wooden seats. Do your business beforehand because there is no bathroom on board. There is no food or drink offered on board, so eat beforehand.

How Long is the Cruise?

The Maligne Lake Cruise lasts around 1.5 hours, with the Premium Cruise taking 2 hours, excluding the loading time. It’s advisable to arrive 30 minutes before your scheduled departure. That way, you can park, check-in, and get your tickets. If you are not there when the cruise departs, your seat is subject to being given up. There is a waiting list for the cruise and peak times are booked well in advance. A $25 fee may apply to late passengers that have to be rebooked.

How Much is the Maligne Lake Cruise?

Advanced Purchase Pricing (CAD):

The Maligne Lake cruises run from May 31* – October 13th, 2024.

  • Classic Cruise – $82/adult and $53.50/child
  • Premium Cruise – Cruise $109/adult and $70.85/child
  • Pursuit Rewards Cruise (for Alberta locals): $66.00/adult and $42.90/child
  • Age 5 & Under – Free if sharing a seat with adult (but they still require a ticket)
  • Kids Go Free Early Bird! Receive one free child ticket for each paying adult on the 9 AM and 9:15 AM Classic Cruise.
  • Pursuit Pass Jasper (Columbia Icefield Adventure – including Skywalk and Maligne Lake Cruise)$160.00/adult and $104/ child

When is the Best Time to Cruise?

Maligne Lake Cruise

July and August provide the best chance for a sunny day in the Rockies, though it’s mountain weather, and you never know what can happen here! Maligne Lake cruises start running at 9am, and because mornings on the water are some of the calmest (and our favorite), we would recommend purchasing a tour as early as possible. This will also still give you excellent morning light on Spirit Island.

Is the Maligne Lake Cruise Wheelchair Accessible?

Maligne Lake Cruise

Their facilities are accessible to standard wheelchairs in most cases. However, they have a limited supply of accessible boats, so it’s best to contact them before booking your tour at +1.888.900.6272.

Is it Pet-Friendly?

It’s best to leave your furry friends at home as they are not permitted on the Maligne Lake Cruise, but pets on a leash can enjoy all that Maligne Lake offers.

Is it Kid Friendly?

Yes! The whole Maligne Lake and Spirit Island experience is kid-friendly, and kids under 5 are free, though strollers are not permitted on the boat.

Will You Get Wet on the Maligne Lake Cruise?

It’s pretty unlikely you will get wet unless it is raining. Still, the boats are covered, and guests can step outside whenever they wish.

Do You Need to Book in Advance?

checking in for the Maligne Lake Cruise

Booking your cruise in advance is highly recommended, especially in July and August. Cruises do sell out frequently.

Hiking Trails, Picnic Spots, and Other Recreational Activities Nearby

groupon maligne lake cruise

Before or after your cruise, there are few things to do at Maligne Lake that may be of interest.

  • Canoe or kayak : It’s impossible to miss the charming boat house at Maligne Lake. Here you can rent canoes, kayaks, and rowboats and get out on the water.
  • Walk the Mary Schaffer Loop Trail : This is an easy 3.2 Jasper trail with only 82 meters of elevation gain near Maligne Lake. It will loop you through some beautiful forests and starts and ends at Maligne Lake.
  • Moose Lake Loop : This trail is similar at 3.4 km, but has slightly more gain at 108 meters. The trail starts at Maligne Lake and gets you to the quiet Moose Lake! It’s common to see Moose on this trail.
  • Gift Shop: The gift shop at Maligne Lake is quite extensive, and even if you don’t plan on buying anything, it’s still worth a wander.
  • Have a Meal : There are three Jasper restaurants at Maligne Lake. The Lake House Café has both Grab and Go food as well as hot food service. There’s also the Waffle Hut , which is pretty self-explanatory for their food type, and The View Restaurant . All of these dining options only operate from June to October.

Is The Maligne Lake Cruise Worth It?

Walk the Mary Schaffer Loop Trail

We have now enjoyed the Maligne Lake Cruise to Spirit Island twice in the summer and can confidently say that the experience is worth it. It’s pretty tough to see Spirit Island any other way, unless you have backcountry camping permits and are willing to canoe in. The beauty of the lake rivals popular Banff lakes like Moraine Lake and Lake Louise . It’s certainly the most beautiful lake in Jasper , and you may even find it the most stunning lake in the Rockies!

Is the Premium Cruise worth it? The Premium Maligne Lake Cruise gets you an extra 15 minutes to explore Spirit Island, though no one can walk out to Spirit Island. The cruise also stops and lets you soak in the views at Pincushion Bay. Most importantly, the Premium Cruise is available only in the evening, allowing you to have the best possible light on Spirit Island, which is ideal for photographers. If all these things are important to you, we recommend booking the premium cruise.

Questions about the cruise get asked often in our private Facebook group, and nearly everyone agrees that the Maligne Lake cruise is worth the time, effort, and money. Everyone also agrees, including us, to book one of the later time slots in the day for the best light on Spirit Island.

Getting to Maligne Lake

Maligne-Lake-Road

Maligne Lake is roughly 45km from the Town of Jasper, and it’s recommended that you take at least one hour to get to the lakeshore from Downtown Jasper. To get there, get on the Yellowhead Hwy and take a right on Maligne Lake Road. You’ll continue on this road until it ends at Maligne Lake. Allow either before your visit to Maligne Lake or after so that you can stop at some of the incredible sights on the way.

I suggest stopping at Maligne Canyon, as it’s a great beginner-friendly Jasper hike and definitely don’t miss Medicine Lake on your way in. Keep your eyes out for moose, sheep, and elk – Maligne Lake Road is one of the most well-known places to see wildlife in the park! Please remember these animals are wild. Never get out of your car for a photograph and observe quickly and at a distance so that they can live peacefully in their natural habitat.

Accessibility and Parking at Maligne Lake

map of maligne lake

There is parking at Maligne Lake, though during a beautiful summer weekend day, the area does become quite congested, and you might have to circle a few times before finding a place to park.

There’s space to drop off elderly or disabled guests, as well as a few handicapped parking spots. The parking area is a relatively short distance away from where you will need to be to depart on your cruise.

Do You Need a Parks Pass to Visit Maligne Lake?

Maligne Lake

Yes, Maligne Lake is in Jasper National Park, and all visitors to the parks need a valid park pass. Pass prices are as follows:

Parks Canada Day Pass Rates

A  Parks Canada Discovery Pass grants you entrance to all Parks Canada destinations for a year. For many visitors, purchasing an annual pass makes more sense, as an adult’s day pass is $11.00 per day. The pass also grants access to historic sites such as Cave & Basin along with any other national park in the country.

Parks Canada Discovery Pass Fees

Our ultimate guide to purchasing a Canadian Parks Pass

Where to Stay in Jasper?

groupon maligne lake cruise

Our Top Recommended Jasper Tours

  • Athabasca Falls: Class 2 White Water Rafting Adventure : Action packed adventure for the whole family.
  • Canadian Rockies: Scenic Helicopter Tour : Located away from Jasper towards Nordegg, but worth the stop when checking out Abraham Lake or driving the Icefields Parkway.
  • Maligne Valley Wildlife Watching & Boat Tour : Animals and boating- two for one!
  • Jasper SkyTram: Roundtrip Flight : One of the top things to do in Jasper.
  • Evening or Morning Wildlife Search : If you want to see wildlife, adventure out with a knowledgeable guide.
  • Jasper: Columbia Icefield Skywalk : Best to do when driving from Banff to Jasper.
  • Maligne Lake Cruise With Guide : Experiencing Maligne Lake is one of the top things to do in Jasper.
  • From Jasper With Love Theatre Show : The best thing to do in the evening with a nightcap in hand.

' src=

About Natasha

Natasha calls Canmore, Alberta home. After traveling across seven continents and 90 countries with Cameron, she settled down in the stunning Canadian Rockies. She loves to help others travel and make their planning easier. She is a winter enthusiast and loves to snowboard, ice skate, and snowshoe and enjoy all the fantastic summer opportunities in Banff like hiking, scrambling, and biking. You can find her in the mountains or enjoying a coffee by the river. Learn more on the about us page! If you have found the content on this site helpful to your trip planning please consider supporting The Banff Blog. You can say thanks directly by buying us a coffee . All support is much appreciated!

Leave a Comment Cancel reply

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Related Posts

Maligne Lake Cruise vs Lake Minnewanka Cruise

Maligne Lake Cruise vs Lake Minnewanka Cruise

groupon maligne lake cruise

How to Get from BANFF to JASPER (or Jasper to Banff)

icefields parkway

23 BEAUTIFUL Stops on the Icefields Parkway

Maligne Adventures

Maligne Valley Wildlife & Waterfalls Tour & Cruise

Quick Details

  • Hour Glass Duration: 6 Hours
  • User Ages: All ages
  • Calendar Available: Jun 1 – Oct 13

Includes a Scenic Boat Cruise to Spirit Island on Maligne Lake

Join us on an awe-inspiring 45km journey through the Maligne Valley and discover why this area is considered one of the most stunning natural wonders of the world. This tour offers an exceptional opportunity to witness Jasper National Park’s vibrant wildlife, cascading waterfalls, and serene lakes.

Our expert guides will take you on a scenic drive up the Maligne Valley , where you’ll have a chance to encounter a diverse range of flora and fauna, search for abundant wildlife and gain insights into the valley’s natural history.

Along the way, we’ll make a 30 minute stop at the breathtakingly beautiful Maligne Canyon , where you’ll explore two bridges crossing the canyon and marvel at the views of ancient limestone and cascading waterfalls.

Continuing our drive through sub-alpine forests, we’ll arrive at Medicine Lake , where you’ll learn about the fascinating geological history of the area and take in the serene beauty of the expanding ranges of limestone rising out of the tranquil lake. This mysterious disappearing lake changes seasonally as the flow rates of melt waters fill and empty this basin. A stop is made to photograph this natural wonder, and your guide traces its history with you.

As we depart Medicine Lake, keep your eyes peeled and your camera ready. The surrounding forest is prime habitat for an array of iconic Canadian wildlife, including moose, bears and bald eagles.

Arriving at Maligne Lake, embark on a scenic boat cruise where you’ll take in stunning vistas of the lake’s glacial-blue waters and the towering mountains that surround it. You’ll be protected from the elements on the comfortable enclosed boat while you’ll learn about the human and geological history of the area. The 90 minute cruise stops at Spirit Island, where you’ll have the opportunity to walk to the famous photo viewpoint and capture some of the most stunning scenery in the Canadian Rockies.

After the cruise, you can enjoy your own packed lunch or purchase a delicious grab-and-go lunch from the Maligne Lakehouse restaurant (additional expense) before we depart back to Jasper.

Don’t miss out on this unforgettable tour where you’ll experience the best of Maligne Valley’s natural beauty and wildlife.

Please note: Wildlife sightings on this tour are frequent but not guaranteed as we are trying to view these animals in their natural habitat.

What You Need to Know

  • A small amount of walking is involved. Comfortable walking shoes are recommended.
  • Travel is by comfortable 24-seat minibus and fully covered boat. However, as mountain weather can be unpredictable, participants should bring a rain jacket or umbrella and warm clothing to wear during the outdoor/walking portions of the trip in case of inclement weather.
  • We have a short break for lunch at Maligne Lake. There is the chance to purchase lunch at the Maligne Lakehouse restaurant, although during peak season (July-August) there can often be long lines. To avoid waiting in line, you may wish to bring your own lunch.
  • We recommend bringing a small bottle of water.
  • This tour operates in all weather conditions.

Pick-Up Information

Complimentary pick-up is available from selected accommodations within the Jasper Area. If your hotel is not listed below, please choose the central meeting location.

Please refer to this list of accommodations which outlines the locations available for pick-up and their relevant pick-up times.

Related Adventures

  • Calendar May 4 – Oct 13
  • User All ages
  • Hour Glass 6 Hours

Maligne Valley Wildlife & Waterfalls Tour & Lakeside Hike

Take in the highlights of the breathtaking Maligne Valley and embark on a guided nature hike along the shores of Maligne Lake.

  • Calendar May 4 – Oct 6
  • User 5+ years | Not recommended for children under 5
  • Hour Glass 3 hours

Jasper National Park Wildlife Tours

Observe wildlife such as bear, moose, sheep, elk, and deer in Jasper National Park!

Boat Cruise

Boat cruise on Maligne Lake, located in Jasper National Park.

Enjoy views of the Canadian Rockies, Spirit Island, and sprawling forests.

Maligne Lake Cruise

Maligne Boat Cruise

Jasper maligne lake cruise, jasper's maligne lake cruise.

Fully narrated cruise takes you along Maligne Lake to Spirit Island in Jasper National Park.

Maligne Lake Cruise Overview

What to expect on the maligne lake cruise, maligne lake cruise itinerary, cruise glacial water of maligne lake and take in the spirit of jasper, best time for the maligne lake cruise, premium maligne lake cruise, more jasper maligne valley and maligne lake cruises, 5.5 hour jasper wildlife and waterfalls tour with maligne lake cruise.

Discover top natural attractions such as Maligne Canyon and Medicine Lake on foot, and enjoy a scenic cruise on Maligne Lake.

Jasper Wildlife and Waterfalls Tour with Maligne Lake Cruise

What to expect on the 5.5 hour jasper wildlife and waterfalls tour with maligne lake cruise, 5.5 hour jasper wildlife and waterfalls tour with maligne lake cruise itinerary, additional 5.5 hour jasper wildlife and waterfalls tour with maligne lake cruise info, jasper sightseeing tour & maligne lake cruise.

Fully narrated Jasper Sightseeing Tour and Boat cruise takes you along Maligne Lake to Spirit Island in Jasper National Park.

What To Expect on the Jasper Sightseeing Tour & Maligne Lake Cruise

Jasper sightseeing tour & maligne lake cruise itinerary, 2023 maligne lake cruise daily operating hours, inside the maligne lake cruise.

Maligne Lake Cruise in Jasper National Park.

Maligne Lake Cruise Reviews

A wonderful trip! The guide on the boat was both entertaining and knowledgeable. Great opportunity to take some wonderful photographs.

Enjoyed our boat ride out and back as well as walking some trails around the headquarters. Need to add another 5-10 minutes to the stop at Spirit Island. Seemed like we were rushed. Maligne Canyon on the way back to Jasper was a perfect way to complete the trip!

The Maligne Lake Cruise shouldn't be missed. magnificent scenery..... One piece of advice book your cruise ahead, boats were completely booked when we arrived. It's a long beautiful drive out to the lake but knowing your cruise time ahead reduces stress and who needs that when traveling.... Staff was knowledgeable and friendly. If your in Jasper you've got to go!!!

Great cruise, the scenes was beyond belief! So beautiful, and the guides were very informative. highly recommend.

Jasper Maligne Lake Map

Up Maligne Road from Jasper.

Contact Maligne Lake Cruise

Click to Contact Us

Maligne Lake Cruise

groupon maligne lake cruise

  • See all photos

groupon maligne lake cruise

Similar Experiences

groupon maligne lake cruise

Most Recent: Reviews ordered by most recent publish date in descending order.

Detailed Reviews: Reviews ordered by recency and descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as waiting time, length of visit, general tips, and location information.

Curious63558584017

MALIGNE LAKE CRUISE (Jasper) - All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go

Logo

  • Location & Hours

A family walks on a dock next to white and blue boats.

Frequently Asked Questions

The Maligne Lake Cruise is a unique sightseeing tour exploring Maligne Lake, home to the world-famous Spirit Island in Jasper National Park. Your voyage will take approximately 1.5 hours and will include vibrant stories from the onboard guide who will introduce you to the history of the lake and its earliest explorers, along with glaciology and the flora and fauna of the area.

For up-to-date Maligne Lake Cruise daily operating hours please visit the Location & Hours page .

The Maligne Lake Cruise is approximately 1.5 hours long (2 hours for the premium cruise) not including loading.

We recommend arriving 30 minutes prior to your cruise departure.

For up-to-date Maligne Lake Cruise departures please visit the  Location & Hours page .

From the east end of the townsite of Jasper, follow Highway 16 east for 3 km before taking the right turnoff for Maligne Lake Road. Proceed over the iron bridge across the Athabasca River, stay left at the fork in the road and then proceed for 48 km until you arrive at Maligne Lake. Watch for “animal jam” slowdowns along the way.

When you reach the Maligne Lake area, the first public parking lot is to the left. After parking, follow the short trail through a grove of trees to Maligne Lake, the ticket office, boathouse, lake house and the historic chalet. We highly recommend you allow 1–1.5 hours to drive from Jasper to Maligne Lake.

Open in Google Maps

Yes. We are accessible to most standard wheelchairs. We recommend you contact central reservations at +1.888.900.6272 as our accessible boats are in limited supply.

Although wildlife such as moose and grizzly bears frequent the Maligne Lake area, they can be difficult to find and we cannot guarantee that you will see them.

Unfortunately, for safety reasons, we are unable to accommodate strollers on our boats. They can be left at the boat docks.

Currently, we have 3 types of boats that can carry between 38 and 50 passengers.

Generally, no. Our cruise boats are covered, but there may be a bit of water spray if the windows are open when the boat picks up speed.

Weather can be unpredictable. The lake tends to be cooler than the temperature in the town of Jasper so a light jacket is recommended. It can even snow here in the summer months, so bring layers just in case!

We have 3 food and beverage options to choose from: The Lake House Café, Waffle Hut and The View. Washroom facilities are available in the parking lot, as well as in the Lake House.

No. Parks Canada requires all adult visitors to Canada’s national parks to buy a permit for the duration of their stay to support visitor services and facilities. Day Passes or a yearly Discovery Pass are available to buy in-person at Parks Canada's park gates and information centres in Banff and Jasper . Admission for youth 17 and under is free.

Maligne Lake is one of the most popular recreational areas in Jasper National Park. There are plenty of great trails for hiking all around this beautiful area. In addition to these, you can also rent canoes, rowboats and kayaks, or visit the Maligne Lake Cruise for an interpretive voyage across the lake.

Yes. You will need to pre-purchase a national park fishing license, prior to arriving at the lake.

A daily fishing permit from Parks Canada costs $12.75 per person, or an annual permit can be purchased for $44.25.

Canoes and kayaks are available to rent from the boathouse and can be booked online .

Safety briefings and instructions are provided prior to your departure so you'll be prepared in the event of an emergency. Lifejackets will be provided for safety.

Rentals Frequently Asked Questions

We will hold pre-booked rentals for up to 15 minutes beyond the scheduled rental time. After this, the rental will no longer be reserved for you and will be open to walk-in customers. Please note that if you arrive late, the amount of time is factored into your rental duration. E.g. if you have rented for 1 hour and arrive 15 minutes late, then you will have 45 minutes remaining.

  • Each boat rental comes with a CSA certified PFD.
  • Each canoe and rowboat has a bail bucket attached.
  • Sit-on kayaks do not require bail buckets as they are watertight.
  • Sit-in kayaks are for experience paddlers only and come with a water evacuations pump and rope throw bag.
  • Guests cannot bring their own PFDs.

All those renting equipment must be 18 years of age or older. Renters under 18 must be accompanied by a parent/guardian to rent. Children under 16 years must be accompanied by an adult for the duration of the rental while out on the lake.

Yes, a waiver will be required and is to be reviewed and signed before departing the Boathouse. Children under 18 years require a parental or legal guardian signature.

Weather can be unpredictable. The lake tends to be cooler than the temperature in the town of Jasper so layers are recommended. It can even snow here in the summer months, so prepare for any season! Do not bring anything you are not willing to lose to the lake. Ensure car keys and other items are kept within a pocket or carry those items attached to your person.

back to top

1.866.606.6700   |  CONTACT US

Stay connected

logo

THE 10 BEST Moscow Boat Rides & Cruises

Boat rides & cruises in moscow.

  • Boat Rentals
  • Scuba & Snorkeling
  • Fishing Charters & Tours
  • Water Sports
  • Stand-Up Paddleboarding
  • Surfing, Windsurfing & Kitesurfing
  • Kayaking & Canoeing
  • Waterskiing & Jetskiing
  • Parasailing & Paragliding
  • River Rafting & Tubing
  • Dolphin & Whale Watching
  • Speed Boats Tours
  • Submarine Tours
  • 5.0 of 5 bubbles
  • 4.0 of 5 bubbles & up
  • 3.0 of 5 bubbles & up
  • 2.0 of 5 bubbles & up
  • 3rd Transport Ring (TTK)
  • District Central (TsAO)
  • Garden Ring
  • District Northern (SAO)
  • Good for Big Groups
  • Good for Couples
  • Good for a Rainy Day
  • Budget-friendly
  • Good for Kids
  • Hidden Gems
  • Honeymoon spot
  • Good for Adrenaline Seekers
  • Adventurous
  • Things to do ranked using Tripadvisor data including reviews, ratings, photos, and popularity.

groupon maligne lake cruise

1. Flotilla Radisson Royal

JCW703

2. Moscow River Boat Tours

DarshanaBR

3. Sup-Club

groupon maligne lake cruise

4. Akvanavt Diving Centre

groupon maligne lake cruise

5. Diving Center Crocus City Oceanarium

groupon maligne lake cruise

6. CheapRussia Tours

MilosSerb

7. Kite School Kiteclass

T8298GDjuliac

8. SUP Center

groupon maligne lake cruise

9. Erwin. Reka

Igorgrins

11. Easy Russia Tour Guide

alizain1985

12. Lovely Russia Tours

gabrelarose

13. Capital River Boat Tours - Moscow Centre

NUfb

14. Alfa Centr

groupon maligne lake cruise

15. Diving Club Divers

groupon maligne lake cruise

16. Sup Outdoor

groupon maligne lake cruise

17. MORE MOSCOW

WorldTraveler0723

19. Soho Sailing Style

groupon maligne lake cruise

20. Mosparokhodstvo

imyshin

21. Diving Center Crocodile

groupon maligne lake cruise

22. Dive-Project

groupon maligne lake cruise

24. Kosinskiy Children Marine Club

groupon maligne lake cruise

25. Kayak Moscow

Voyage409843

26. DIVECLUB CHE

groupon maligne lake cruise

27. FLOW Moscow

groupon maligne lake cruise

28. Moswake

groupon maligne lake cruise

29. Morskiye Volki

groupon maligne lake cruise

30. S-cruises

Y9979KOmikem

What travelers are saying

Pete17

  • CheapRussia Tours
  • Easy Russia Tour Guide
  • Lovely Russia Tours
  • MORE MOSCOW
  • Insider Moscow Tours
  • Flotilla Radisson Royal
  • Moscow River Boat Tours
  • Capital River Boat Tours - Moscow Centre
  • Diving Center Crocus City Oceanarium
  • Bahasa Indonesia
  • Slovenščina
  • Science & Tech
  • Russian Kitchen

Cruising the Moskva River: A short guide to boat trips in Russia’s capital

groupon maligne lake cruise

There’s hardly a better way to absorb Moscow’s atmosphere than on a ship sailing up and down the Moskva River. While complicated ticketing, loud music and chilling winds might dampen the anticipated fun, this checklist will help you to enjoy the scenic views and not fall into common tourist traps.

How to find the right boat?

There are plenty of boats and selecting the right one might be challenging. The size of the boat should be your main criteria.

Plenty of small boats cruise the Moskva River, and the most vivid one is this yellow Lay’s-branded boat. Everyone who has ever visited Moscow probably has seen it.

groupon maligne lake cruise

This option might leave a passenger disembarking partially deaf as the merciless Russian pop music blasts onboard. A free spirit, however, will find partying on such a vessel to be an unforgettable and authentic experience that’s almost a metaphor for life in modern Russia: too loud, and sometimes too welcoming. Tickets start at $13 (800 rubles) per person.

Bigger boats offer smoother sailing and tend to attract foreign visitors because of their distinct Soviet aura. Indeed, many of the older vessels must have seen better days. They are still afloat, however, and getting aboard is a unique ‘cultural’ experience. Sometimes the crew might offer lunch or dinner to passengers, but this option must be purchased with the ticket. Here is one such  option  offering dinner for $24 (1,490 rubles).

groupon maligne lake cruise

If you want to travel in style, consider Flotilla Radisson. These large, modern vessels are quite posh, with a cozy restaurant and an attentive crew at your service. Even though the selection of wines and food is modest, these vessels are still much better than other boats.

groupon maligne lake cruise

Surprisingly, the luxurious boats are priced rather modestly, and a single ticket goes for $17-$32 (1,100-2,000 rubles); also expect a reasonable restaurant bill on top.

How to buy tickets?

Women holding photos of ships promise huge discounts to “the young and beautiful,” and give personal invitations for river tours. They sound and look nice, but there’s a small catch: their ticket prices are usually more than those purchased online.

“We bought tickets from street hawkers for 900 rubles each, only to later discover that the other passengers bought their tickets twice as cheap!”  wrote  (in Russian) a disappointed Rostislav on a travel company website.

Nevertheless, buying from street hawkers has one considerable advantage: they personally escort you to the vessel so that you don’t waste time looking for the boat on your own.

groupon maligne lake cruise

Prices start at $13 (800 rubles) for one ride, and for an additional $6.5 (400 rubles) you can purchase an unlimited number of tours on the same boat on any given day.

Flotilla Radisson has official ticket offices at Gorky Park and Hotel Ukraine, but they’re often sold out.

Buying online is an option that might save some cash. Websites such as  this   offer considerable discounts for tickets sold online. On a busy Friday night an online purchase might be the only chance to get a ticket on a Flotilla Radisson boat.

This  website  (in Russian) offers multiple options for short river cruises in and around the city center, including offbeat options such as ‘disco cruises’ and ‘children cruises.’ This other  website  sells tickets online, but doesn’t have an English version. The interface is intuitive, however.

Buying tickets online has its bad points, however. The most common is confusing which pier you should go to and missing your river tour.

groupon maligne lake cruise

“I once bought tickets online to save with the discount that the website offered,” said Igor Shvarkin from Moscow. “The pier was initially marked as ‘Park Kultury,’ but when I arrived it wasn’t easy to find my boat because there were too many there. My guests had to walk a considerable distance before I finally found the vessel that accepted my tickets purchased online,” said the man.

There are two main boarding piers in the city center:  Hotel Ukraine  and  Park Kultury . Always take note of your particular berth when buying tickets online.

Where to sit onboard?

Even on a warm day, the headwind might be chilly for passengers on deck. Make sure you have warm clothes, or that the crew has blankets ready upon request.

The glass-encased hold makes the tour much more comfortable, but not at the expense of having an enjoyable experience.

groupon maligne lake cruise

Getting off the boat requires preparation as well. Ideally, you should be able to disembark on any pier along the way. In reality, passengers never know where the boat’s captain will make the next stop. Street hawkers often tell passengers in advance where they’ll be able to disembark. If you buy tickets online then you’ll have to research it yourself.

There’s a chance that the captain won’t make any stops at all and will take you back to where the tour began, which is the case with Flotilla Radisson. The safest option is to automatically expect that you’ll return to the pier where you started.

If using any of Russia Beyond's content, partly or in full, always provide an active hyperlink to the original material.

to our newsletter!

Get the week's best stories straight to your inbox

  • What to do in Moscow City, if you’re not mega-rich
  • Moscow after dusk: 10 places to drink, dance, and groove
  • 5 things you must do in Moscow in 2018 between football matches (or without them)
  • Sandwiched between Moscow and St. Petersburg: How to spend a perfect weekend in Tver 
  • 24 or 48 hours in Moscow: Where to go and what to do in 2019

groupon maligne lake cruise

This website uses cookies. Click here to find out more.

  • Guided tour

River Cruise on Luxurious Radisson Boat

  • Description
  • Choose date

River Cruise on Luxurious Radisson Boat

Equipped with ice-breaking technology, these huge fancy yachts are the only river cruisers running all year around. The round trip journey takes two and a half hours and floats past all the big sights like the White House, Novodevichy monastery and the Kremlin. There’s a large open air observation deck up top, while the main body of the ship houses a restaurant with a dance floor for a romantic post dinner dance. For a particularly romantic experience take one of the evening boats and admire the bright lights of the city skyline at night.

The most relaxing and picturesque tour that Moscow can offer: a great way to see the city center and its main attractions. This is a perfect alternative to exploring the city by car, if you only have time to do sightseeing during weekday rush hours.

Your English-speaking guide is eager to share every bit of their knowledge about the surrounding landscape, the architecture and historical details.

We conduct Moscow river tour on Radisson Flotilla boats all year around!  It’s warm inside during winter months, while there’s air conditioning during hot summer days. You may also treat yourself to drinks, lunch or dinner on board (drinks and food are not included in tour price).

The cost of an excursion with a personal guide for 1 person

Quay at Radisson Collection Hotel

Government Headquarters ("the White House")

Kievsky Railway Central

Novodevichy Convent

Luzhniki Stadium

Academy of Sciences

Monument to Peter I

Cathedral of Christ the Saviour

Moscow Kremlin

St.Basil's Cathedral

Novospassky Monastery

U-turn and back to Quay at Radisson Royal Hotel

Choose your dates

Who's going.

  • Excursion River Cruise on Luxurious Radisson Boat
  • Date and time:
  • Who's going:

See photo of the meeting point

IMAGES

  1. Experience the Maligne Lake Cruise & Maligne Canyon, Jasper National

    groupon maligne lake cruise

  2. Maligne Lake Cruise (Jasper)

    groupon maligne lake cruise

  3. Maligne Lake Premium Cruise

    groupon maligne lake cruise

  4. Experience the Maligne Lake Cruise & Maligne Canyon, Jasper National

    groupon maligne lake cruise

  5. Riding the waves with a Maligne Lake Boat Cruise

    groupon maligne lake cruise

  6. Spirit Island Cruise on Maligne Lake

    groupon maligne lake cruise

VIDEO

  1. MALIGNE LAKE CRUISE

  2. Maligne Lake in Jasper, Alberta #canadianrockies #jasperalberta

  3. #Malignelake #malignelakecruise # spiritisland #jaspernationalpark #canadianrockies

  4. Maligne Lake Winter Camping (warming shelter included)

  5. On the way to Maligne Lake, Beautiful sightseeing ,You will amazed if you Wana come over this place

  6. Maligne lake view #lake #forest #shorts #adventure #travel #cruise

COMMENTS

  1. Maligne Lake Cruise

    Declared the "Best Boat Cruise in Canada" by 8 million Reader's Digest subscribers, the Maligne Lake Cruise is an experience like no other. Join us on a panoramic tour across the crystal waters of magical Maligne Lake, fed by the glaciers of Jasper National Park. Glide past the jagged mountain peaks as we cruise to Spirit Island, a world-famous destination only accessible by boat.

  2. Cruise the glacial waters of Maligne Lake

    Join us on a panoramic tour atop the crystal waters of Maligne Lake, fed by the glaciers of Jasper National Park. Cruise along the scenic shores populated by towering peaks and roaming wildlife enroute to a spectacular overlook of Spirit Island. Learn More. We'll save your spot! We recommend booking in advance as cruises often reach capacity.

  3. Where to get Maligne Lake Cruise discount?

    Jasper Restaurants Feb 09, 2024. 5-6 hours in Jasper Village no car Jan 28, 2024. Visit in Early April Jan 25, 2024. Help with 6 days Banff/Jasper Itinerary June 25th-July2nd Jan 24, 2024. Camping at Whistler Campground at Jasper NP Jan 18, 2024.

  4. Maligne Lake Cruise

    The Maligne Lake Cruise has been providing visitors with the opportunity to discover the world-famous Spirit Island for over 60 years through interpretive boat cruises in Jasper National Park. Visitors can explore the lake from the comfort of glass-enclosed and heated cruise boats while a knowledgeable guide retells Maligne's history and ...

  5. Maligne Lake Boat Cruise

    September 5 - October 1 Daily, 9 AM - 5:30 PM. October 2 - October 9 Daily, 9 AM - 4 PM. Please allow one and a half hours for the Classic Maligne Lake Boat Cruise; we recommend you pre-purchase cruise tickets and arrive 30 minutes prior to your boat cruise. Maligne Boat Cruise rates do not include GST.

  6. Maligne Lake Cruise: Cruise Options, Hours & Rates

    Daily, 9 AM - 5:30 PM. June 22 - September 2. Daily, 9 AM - 6 PM. September 3 - 29. Daily, 9 AM - 5:30 PM. September 30 - October 13. Daily, 9 AM - 4:30 PM. *Weather dependent. Please allow approximately one and a half hours for the Classic Cruise; we recommend you pre-purchase tickets and arrive 30 minutes prior to your cruise.

  7. Maligne Lake Cruise

    Declared the "Best Boat Cruise in Canada" by 8 million Reader's Digest subscribers, the Maligne Lake Cruise is an experience like no other. Sail 14 kilometres along Maligne Lake on The Maligne Lake Cruise, past towering peaks & glaciers, to the peaceful and remarkable Spirit Island. Sit back, relax and enjoy vibrant stories from the onboard ...

  8. Maligne Lake Cruise: Experience Interpretive Boat Cruises in Jasper

    Classic Cruise: 1.5 hours. Sail 14 kilometres atop Maligne Lake, past towering peaks and glaciers, to the peaceful and remarkable Spirit Island. Sit back, relax and enjoy our onboard tour guides' vibrant stories, including the history of the lake and its earliest explorers, along with the geology, glaciology and flora and fauna of the area.

  9. Maligne Lake Cruise (Mar 2024)

    This fully narrated cruise takes you along Maligne Lake, the largest glacially fed lake in the Canadian Rockies, part of the UNESCO-listed Jasper National Park. Visit Spirit Island, accessible only by boat, and admire views of imposing granite peaks, vibrant blue water, and ancient forests. Keep your camera close and your senses alert as you scan the area for the eagles, bears, and deer that ...

  10. Maligne Lake Cruise

    The Maligne Lake Cruise takes you on a fully enclosed and heated boat, offering both comfort and convenience. With its glass walls, you can enjoy uninterrupted views of the breathtaking Spirit Island, surrounded by majestic peaks, crystal-clear waters, and lush forests.

  11. Maligne Lake Cruise to Spirit Island

    There are two Maligne Lake cruise options to choose from. The 1.5-hour Classic Cruise includes 15 minutes of free time at the world-famous Spirit Island. If you decide to go with the Premium Cruise, it is 2 hours in length and allows for 30 minutes of free time at Spirit Island. There is also a brief stop at Pincushion Bay to soak in the ...

  12. Is the Maligne Lake Cruise to Spirit Island Worth It?

    The Maligne Lake cruises run from May 31* - October 13th, 2024. Classic Cruise - $82/adult and $53.50/child; Premium Cruise - Cruise $109/adult and $70.85/child; Pursuit Rewards Cruise (for Alberta locals): $66.00/adult and $42.90/child; Age 5 & Under - Free if sharing a seat with adult (but they still require a ticket)

  13. Maligne Lake Cruise

    The Maligne Lake Cruise typically operates daily from the end of May to mid-October. The exact schedule varies from year to year due to weather conditions. The planned schedule for 2024 is: May 31 to June 21, 2024 - 9 am to 5:30 pm; June 22 to September 2, 2024 - 9 am to 6 pm;

  14. Maligne Valley Wildlife & Waterfalls Tour & Cruise

    Join us on an awe-inspiring 45km journey through the Maligne Valley and discover why this area is considered one of the most stunning natural wonders of the world. This tour offers an exceptional opportunity to witness Jasper National Park's vibrant wildlife, cascading waterfalls, and serene lakes. Our expert guides will take you on a scenic ...

  15. Maligne Lake Cruise

    Declared the "Best Boat Cruise in Canada" by Reader's Digest, the Maligne Lake Cruise is an experience like no other. Enjoy a panoramic tour across the glacial fed waters of magical Maligne Lake, Jasper National Park. Cruise past incredible Jasper mountain peaks as we boat to Spirit Island, a world-famous destination only accessible by boat.

  16. Maligne Lake Cruise

    1 Old Lodge Road. Jasper, Alberta T0E 1E0, Canada. US & CAN: 1 (866) 540-4454 International: [email protected]. Experience the world-famous Spirit Island located on Maligne Lake aboard a 90 minute interpretive boat cruise.

  17. MALIGNE LAKE CRUISE (Jasper)

    The Maligne Lake Cruise has been providing visitors with the opportunity to discover the world-famous Spirit Island for over 60 years through interpretive boat cruises in Jasper National Park. Visitors can explore the lake from the comfort of glass-enclosed and heated cruise boats while a knowledgeable guide retells Maligne's history and ...

  18. Maligne Lake Cruise: Lake Cruise to the World-Famous Spirit Island

    The Maligne Lake Cruise is a unique sightseeing tour exploring Maligne Lake, home to the world-famous Spirit Island in Jasper National Park. Your voyage will take approximately 1.5 hours and will include vibrant stories from the onboard guide who will introduce you to the history of the lake and its earliest explorers, along with glaciology and the flora and fauna of the area.

  19. THE 10 BEST Moscow Boat Rides & Cruises (Updated 2024)

    Explore the scenic and historic attractions of Moscow from the water with the best boat tours and cruises. Enjoy the views of the Kremlin, the Cathedral of Christ the Savior, and the Sparrow Hills on a relaxing or informative boat ride. Or, spice up your trip with some water sports and activities in Moscow. Find out more on Tripadvisor.

  20. Cruising the Moskva River: A short guide to boat trips in Russia's

    Surprisingly, the luxurious boats are priced rather modestly, and a single ticket goes for $17-$32 (1,100-2,000 rubles); also expect a reasonable restaurant bill on top.

  21. River Cruise on Luxurious Radisson Boat

    Moscow City: View Moscow Beneath Your Feet. $95. Details. River Cruise on Luxurios Radisson Ship with a guided excursion: time to relax and soak in the gorgeous Moscow landscape. Our guide will accompany you and reveal the details behind the structures on the river banks around you.

  22. Boat tours and river cruises through Moscow: where to take them

    On this map you can see the details of the longest and most classic of the Flotilla Radisson boat tours: 2. Companies that do boat tours on the Moskva River. There are many companies that do cruises on the Moskva River, but the 4 main ones are: Capital River Boat Tour Company (CCK) Mosflot. Flotilla Radisson.