Vancouver & Granville Island

Trip Information

Take a ride on BC Ferries and head to the Mainland to discover one of Canada’s most beautiful and diverse cities. Established as a city in 1886 it is now one of the largest cities in Canada, Vancouver is also one of the top five cities for livability and quality of life. The city is well known for its urban center which is surrounded by nature which has contributed to making it one of the largest film production centers in North America. There is a lot to do while you are in the big city, explore the large downtown core and the many shops, restaurants, parks & beaches Vancouver has to offer.

On this trip we will make our way to Granville Island, a popular place year round. "In the summer the place is especially vibrant and there is often live entertainment outside. Around Christmas there are festive lights, and throughout the year there are plays to watch, events to enjoy and restaurants to eat at. The views of the city across the water are spectacular 365 days of the year.

At Granville Island there is a world-famous indoor Public Market with vendors selling everything from fresh fruit and fish, to cheese, pastries and maple syrup. There are also boutiques selling beautiful and unique artisan products in the Net Loft, in Railspur Alley and all around the area. Granville Island is also home to a wide variety of art studios, galleries, restaurants and theatres." - Vancouver's Best Places

After Granville Island, we will make our way to Canada Place and get off the bus for a few more hours of exploration/shopping in Downtown Vancouver. 

 What to wear

• Appropriate clothing and footwear for the weather and for walking
• Warm layers - winter jacket/rain jacket
• Toque or warm hat
• Mitts or gloves

 What to bring:

• Umbrella or rain coat (in case it rains)
• Water bottle 
• Money if you wish to shop or buy food
• Snacks & Lunch (or money for food)
• Camera
• A backpack to carry all your items

Meeting Location: 

Departure Bay Ferry Terminal - 8 am (must be on time - otherwise walk-on ticket will not be purchased by VIU staff on behalf of the student) 

Trip Includes:

Transportation (including ferry fees), Free time in Vancouver & Granville Island

Policies, Health & Safety

We have an ongoing commitment to ensure the safety and quality of our trips, with trained and responsible student leaders, staff and community partners. Before you sign-up, please check out our policies & procedures for more information about how to prepare for a trip, as well as our cancellation policy.

How to Sign Up

Our activities are available to all current VIU Students. Sign up with us in person, next to the Front Reception Desk in the "Glassroom" on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 12pm – 1:30pm in Building 255 - Second Floor.

You will need to have your:

1. Student card,
2. Proof of medical insurance (BC Care Card or Guard.me Insurance Policy)
3. Payment (cash is currently the only method of payment for activities)

Waiver Form

Please read our general waiver form for VIU group activities in the attachment section below. All participants are required to read and sign the waiver before the start of the trip. We will provide a paper copy for you to read through again and sign the morning of the trip.

Contact

Roberto Donoghue – Admin. Assistant, Intercultural and Group Programs
Roberto.donoghue@viu.ca  
250-740-6315 Ext. 2459