Sewell's Marina Horseshoe Bay West Vancouver
Your gateway to adventure on Howe Sound, offering boat rentals and guided tours for exploring BC's stunning coastline and marine life.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Golden hour light on the water
Sewell's Marina Horseshoe Bay West Vancouver
Best Time
Golden hour light on the water
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Your gateway to adventure on Howe Sound, offering boat rentals and guided tours for exploring BC's stunning coastline and marine life.
"One of the best experiences I've ever had. Tour around Howe Sound gave us opportunity to get very close to sea lions."
Boat Rental Experience
Rent a boat for a thrilling adventure on Howe Sound! Staff are helpful, but be prepared for minimal training if you're new to boating. :boat:
Wildlife Encounters
Keep an eye out for sea lions and birds during your boat trip. :seal: :bird:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Rent a Speed Boat
Howe Sound
Experience the thrill of driving your own boat and exploring the picturesque waters of Howe Sound.
Wildlife Viewing
Howe Sound
Get up close to sea lions and various bird species in their natural habitat.
Scenic Coastal Views
Howe Sound
Marvel at the breathtaking natural beauty of the British Columbia coastline.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Boat Rental Readiness
Explore Howe Sound
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Boat Rental Experience
Rent a boat for a thrilling adventure on Howe Sound! Staff are helpful, but be prepared for minimal training if you're new to boating. :boat:
Wildlife Encounters
Keep an eye out for sea lions and birds during your boat trip. :seal: :bird:
Pack for the Elements
Dress in layers and bring sun protection for a comfortable day on the water. :sunwithface: :umbrellawithrain_drops:
Explore Nearby
Check out local eateries like C-Lovers Fish & Chips or Flour Bakery after your boat adventure. :fries: :coffee:
Tips
from all over the internet
Boat Rental Experience
Rent a boat for a thrilling adventure on Howe Sound! Staff are helpful, but be prepared for minimal training if you're new to boating. :boat:
Wildlife Encounters
Keep an eye out for sea lions and birds during your boat trip. :seal: :bird:
Pack for the Elements
Dress in layers and bring sun protection for a comfortable day on the water. :sunwithface: :umbrellawithrain_drops:
Explore Nearby
Check out local eateries like C-Lovers Fish & Chips or Flour Bakery after your boat adventure. :fries: :coffee:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Sewell's Marina offers a thrilling opportunity to explore Howe Sound by boat, with many visitors praising the experience of renting a speed boat and encountering local wildlife like sea lions. While the scenic beauty is consistently highlighted, some guests noted that the safety training could be more thorough and that the boats, while functional, might feel a bit dated.
"Our boat rental experience with Sewell's Marina was absolutely perfect. The staff were incredibly friendly and helpful from the moment we arrived, making the process of getting our boat seamless and quick. They provided clear safety instructions and great tips for navigating Howe Sound, ensuring we felt confident and ready for our adventure. The boat itself was in excellent condition, clean, and well-equipped with everything we needed. We spent the day exploring the stunning coastline, spotting seals and bald eagles, and simply enjoying the breathtaking scenery. Sewell's made it so easy to create a truly memorable day on the water. We couldn't have asked for a better experience!"
Shannon Meyers
"Sewell’s Marina in Horseshoe Bay was great. We rented a boat for half a day today and it was a wonderful experience. They helped us get out on the Howe Sound without any problems.
I would definitely recommend renting a boat from them if you’re in the area!!
Here’s a few pictures from the trip. Enjoy!"
Ryan Dowhan
"Being out on the water was amazing, it was a gorgeous day and we went out with the boat at 5PM. The boat itself functioned fine but honestly, it felt a little…clunky? I didn’t fully trust the boat, basically. The safety training they gave us was absolutely laughable. It seems that they mostly employ teenagers who seem very disinterested and when we told them it was both of our first times out on a boat AND we don’t know how to swim, they gave us bare minimum instructions and sent us on our way. So…once you’re out on the water, you’re on your own and just hope for the best. If you’re experienced at boating then I’m sure you’ll be fine. They gave us life jackets but told us we didn’t have to wear them. Also, I would’ve loved if they gave us some suggestions on places we could check out since it was our first time in the area but they basically just told us where NOT to go."
Preeti
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Sewell's Marina is located in Horseshoe Bay, West Vancouver. You can reach it by car via the Horseshoe Bay Ferry Terminal. Public transit options are also available, with bus routes serving the area.
Yes, parking is generally available near Sewell's Marina, though it can be busy, especially during peak season. It's advisable to arrive early or consider public transport.
Howe Sound offers numerous scenic routes. Popular options include heading towards the islands for wildlife viewing or exploring the coastline. Ask the marina staff for recommendations based on your rental duration and interests.
Yes, several TransLink bus routes service the Horseshoe Bay area, providing access to Sewell's Marina. Check the TransLink website for the most up-to-date schedules and routes.
Sewell's Marina is situated in Horseshoe Bay, a picturesque village on the west coast of West Vancouver, British Columbia.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Boat rentals can typically be booked directly through Sewell's Marina. It's recommended to book in advance, especially for speed boat rentals or during busy periods.
Sewell's Marina offers various boat rentals, including speed boats suitable for self-driving adventures. They also offer guided tours.
While specific age restrictions can vary, you will likely need to be of legal age to rent and operate a boat. It's best to confirm directly with Sewell's Marina when booking.
Boat rentals are available for various durations, often including half-day and full-day options. Some users have rented for half a day or longer.
For self-drive rentals, a pleasure craft operator card (boating license) may be required in Canada. However, some smaller boats or guided tours might not require one. Inquire with Sewell's Marina for their specific requirements.
🎫 🛥️ On the Water
Safety training is provided, but some visitors have described it as minimal. It's important to pay close attention and ask any clarifying questions you may have, especially if you are a first-time boater.
Life jackets are provided for all passengers. While they are offered, one reviewer mentioned being told they didn't have to wear them, so it's advisable to wear them for safety.
Yes, fishing is a popular activity in Howe Sound. Ensure you have the necessary fishing licenses and are aware of any regulations.
Howe Sound is known for its diverse marine life, including sea lions and various seabirds. You might also spot seals or other marine mammals.
The marina may provide guidelines on areas to avoid or areas that are particularly good for exploration. It's wise to follow their advice for a safe and enjoyable experience.
📸 📸 Photography
The entire Howe Sound area offers stunning photographic opportunities, from the marina itself to the surrounding mountains and coastline. Capture the boats, wildlife, and expansive water views.
From a boat, you can capture unique perspectives of the coastline, marine wildlife, and other boats. The golden hour light can create particularly dramatic photos.
Visitors have shared photos of sea lions, scenic ocean vistas, and the experience of being on the water.
A versatile camera with a good zoom lens is ideal for capturing wildlife and distant scenery. A waterproof camera or phone case is also a good idea. :camerawithflash:
Drone usage is subject to regulations. Check Transport Canada's rules for drone operation in Canada and be mindful of privacy concerns and any specific restrictions around the marina or wildlife areas. :drone:
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Opt for a shorter rental period or a guided tour to keep younger attention spans engaged. Ensure all children wear life jackets for safety, even if not strictly mandated. Pack snacks and drinks, and be prepared for sun and wind exposure. Nearby attractions like C-Lovers Fish & Chips offer a casual dining option post-adventure.
💑 Couples Seeking Adventure
Consider a sunset rental for a particularly romantic outing, with the golden hour light casting a magical glow over the water. Pack a small picnic to enjoy on board, or plan a stop at one of Horseshoe Bay's charming eateries afterward.
🎣 Anglers and Nature Enthusiasts
Beyond fishing, the area is a haven for nature lovers. Keep your eyes peeled for marine mammals and a variety of seabirds. The knowledgeable staff might offer tips on prime wildlife viewing locations, enhancing your nature immersion experience.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Navigating Howe Sound: A Boater's Guide
When venturing out, be aware of changing weather conditions and maritime traffic, especially near the ferry terminal. While Sewell's provides basic safety instructions, it's crucial for renters to have some level of boating confidence or to opt for a guided tour if they are inexperienced. The marina staff can offer insights into the best areas for wildlife spotting, such as areas known for sea lion colonies or bird nesting sites.
Beyond wildlife, the sheer beauty of Howe Sound is a major draw. The coastline provides a constantly shifting panorama of natural splendor, perfect for photography and quiet contemplation. Many visitors find the experience of being on the water, surrounded by such natural grandeur, to be incredibly rejuvenating and memorable.
Wildlife Encounters in Howe Sound
Birdwatchers will also find plenty to admire, with various seabirds, including gulls, cormorants, and potentially eagles, frequenting the area. The best viewing often occurs when you are out on the water, allowing for closer, yet respectful, encounters without disturbing the animals in their natural habitat.
Remember to maintain a safe and respectful distance from all wildlife. Avoid feeding or attempting to touch any animals. The goal is to observe them in their environment, and responsible viewing ensures their continued presence for future visitors.
Renting a Boat: What to Expect
While the staff are generally helpful, some reviews suggest that the safety briefing can be quite brief, particularly for novice boaters. It's advisable to be prepared with your own questions and to pay close attention to any instructions given. Life jackets are provided, and while wearing them is recommended for safety, it may not be strictly enforced.
For those who are less experienced, consider booking a guided tour. This allows you to enjoy the scenery and wildlife without the stress of navigation and operation. If you opt for a self-drive rental, ensure you are comfortable with basic boat handling and have a general understanding of the area you plan to explore.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit