Jasper , Canada

Maligne Lake Cruise

Active

(502 reviews)

All sales are final. No refund is available for cancellations.

Manual confirmation

Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

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.

Available options

Maligne Lake Cruise

What's included

All taxes, fees and handling charges

Boat tour of Maligne Lake and Spirit Island

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1

Your 90-minute cruise of the lake starts dockside near the Maligne Lake Boathouse and Chalet. Boats leave approximately on the hour and your ticket is good for any trip during your selected day. After boarding, you will pull away from the dock and be treated to a fully narrated, interpretative tour of the area's unique history and special ecology. Each boat is glass enclosed and fully heated, ensuring you will stay warm while experiencing majestic views throughout the trip.

Stop 2

From Spirit Island, which is only accessible by boat near the center of the lake, you will be treated to some of the most spectacular views found anywhere in the world. Jagged, snow-capped peaks ring a lake of vibrant blue water and ancient forest. Wildlife regularly prowl the shoreline, so keep your camera close and your senses alert as you scan the area for the eagles, bears and deer that call this area home. Expert and amateur photographers alike will be treated to incredible opportunities to attempt to document the natural splendor surrounding them, all the while recognizing that no photograph can do justice to the alpine scenery surrounding them.

Each cruise last approximately 90 minutes, after which you will return to the boathouse where you can grab a warm beverage or bite to eat from the nearby lodge and chalet.

What's not included

Food and Drink (available to purchase)

Gratuities

Transportation to/from attractions

No public washrooms available for the duration of the cruise

Infant Tickets are free but are required for Attraction

Available languages

Guide guide

Written guide

Reviews breakdown

Viator 4.6

243 reviews

5★

197

4★

3★

2★

1★

Tripadvisor 4.8

259 reviews

5★

234

4★

3★

2★

1★

Important information

Service animals allowed

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Children must be accompanied by an adult

Subject to favorable weather conditions. If canceled due to poor weather, you will be given the option of an alternative date

Opening/closing dates are weather dependent

Infants are free and ticket is required for this Attraction

Meeting point

Maligne is an hour from Jasper, please plan accordingly. There are three free parking areas and then please walk to Maligne ticket office at least 15 minutes prior to departure. If you miss tour time, we may not be able to accommodate a tour on the same day; no refunds for a missed cruise time.

Important notes

Please make your own way to Maligne Lake and be ready a minimum of 15 minutes prior to your tours departure time.
• Please take warm clothing
• Cruises are Weather Dependent
• Please allow approximately 1.5-hours for this excursion.
• Rates and hours of operation subject to change without notice.
• Public restrooms are not available for the duration of the cruise

About Jasper

Jasper is a charming mountain town nestled in the heart of Jasper National Park, the largest national park in the Canadian Rockies. Known for its breathtaking landscapes, abundant wildlife, and dark-sky preserve, Jasper offers a serene and adventurous escape with a small-town charm.

Top Attractions

Jasper SkyTram

The Jasper SkyTram is a scenic aerial tram that takes visitors to the top of Whistlers Mountain, offering panoramic views of the Canadian Rockies.

Adventure 2-3 hours Moderate

Maligne Lake

Maligne Lake is one of the most famous and beautiful lakes in Jasper National Park, known for its deep blue waters and stunning mountain backdrop.

Nature Half day to full day Free (boat tours and rentals cost extra)

Columbia Icefield

The Columbia Icefield is one of the largest icefields in North America, offering visitors the chance to explore ancient glaciers and experience the thrill of walking on ice.

Nature Full day Moderate to expensive (depending on activities chosen)

Jasper National Park Information Centre

The Jasper National Park Information Centre is a great starting point for visitors, offering exhibits on the park's natural and cultural history, as well as information on activities and trails.

Cultural 1-2 hours Free

Marmot Basin

Marmot Basin is a popular ski resort located within Jasper National Park, offering excellent skiing and snowboarding opportunities in the winter and hiking in the summer.

Adventure Half day to full day Moderate to expensive (depending on activities chosen)

Must-Try Local Dishes

Bison Burger

A delicious burger made with locally sourced bison meat, often served with toppings like caramelized onions, cheddar cheese, and bacon.

Main Course Can be made gluten-free and vegetarian options are available at some restaurants.

Elk Steak

Tender elk steak, often served with seasonal vegetables and a rich sauce, showcasing the flavors of the Canadian Rockies.

Main Course Gluten-free and vegetarian options are available at some restaurants.

Wild Blueberry Pie

A sweet and tangy pie made with wild blueberries, a local delicacy in the Jasper area.

Dessert Vegetarian and gluten-free options may be available.

Popular Activities

Hiking Skiing Snowboarding Snowshoeing Ice climbing Helicopter tours Scenic drives Wildlife viewing

Best Time to Visit

June to August

Summer is the peak tourist season with warm temperatures, long daylight hours, and all trails and facilities fully open. It's ideal for hiking, wildlife viewing, and outdoor adventures.

15°C to 25°C 59°F to 77°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: English, French
Widely spoken: English
English: Widely spoken

Currency

Canadian Dollar (CAD)

Time Zone

Mountain Time Zone (MT) (GMT-7)

Electricity

120VV, 60HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Jasper is generally a safe destination for travelers, with low crime rates and a welcoming community. However, visitors should be aware of the potential for wildlife encounters and the challenges of outdoor activities in a mountainous environment.

Important Precautions:

• Be aware of wildlife and maintain a safe distance.
• Dress appropriately for the weather and activities.
• Carry a map and compass, and inform someone of your plans when hiking or engaging in other outdoor activities.

Getting there

By air

Edmonton International Airport • 365 km (227 miles)
Jasper Airport • 12 km (7.5 miles)

By train

Jasper Train Station

By bus

Jasper Bus Station

Getting around

Public transport

Jasper Transit offers a local bus service with routes covering the town and some nearby attractions. The service is limited and primarily designed for residents.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Uber, Local taxi services

Rentals

Car, Bike

Neighborhoods

Jasper Town Site Whistlers Old Fort Point

Day trips

Maligne Canyon

29 km (18 miles) • Half day to full day

Maligne Canyon is a stunning gorge with a series of waterfalls and turquoise pools, offering a variety of hiking trails and scenic viewpoints.

Athabasca Falls

33 km (20.5 miles) • Half day to full day

Athabasca Falls is a powerful and beautiful waterfall located along the Icefields Parkway, offering stunning views and a variety of hiking trails.

Sunwapta Falls

45 km (28 miles) • Full day

Sunwapta Falls is a series of waterfalls and rapids located along the Sunwapta River, offering a variety of hiking trails and scenic viewpoints.

Festivals

Jasper Dark Sky Festival • October Jasper Pride Festival • September Jasper Wildlife Festival • April

Pro tips

Visit the Jasper Information Centre for maps, brochures, and advice on the best trails and attractions.
Pack layers, as temperatures can vary significantly throughout the day and year.
Bring bear spray and know how to use it, as bear encounters are possible in the park.
Book accommodations and popular activities well in advance, especially during peak season.
Take advantage of the park's dark-sky preserve by stargazing on a clear night.