This Alberta cruise gives you the best views of Banff’s largest lake

If you’ve been wanting to take a lake trip to the next level, Lake Minnewanka Cruise is here in Alberta to help that dream come true.

You can hit up Banff’s largest lake and set sail this summer on a Lake Minnewanka Cruise. This is the original experience, with their cruises taking you on a journey of shimmering waters and towering peaks. While you soar across the lake, you’ll be taken back in time as the expert crew tells stories.

Not only were the shores a hunting ground, a meeting place, and a campsite, but they were also home to Minnewanka Landing, a summer village which consisted of four avenues and three streets, whose story you’ll hear about on the waters.

Ready to hop aboard? I sure am, so here’s what you need to know ahead of your voyage.

What to expect

If you’re looking to take a ride yourself, there are a couple of different types of cruises you can take.

First, we have the classic cruise, the premier cruise, the junior explorer cruise, and the beer voyage. Each cruise lasts at least an hour and includes the great sights ahead.

For the classic cruise, you’ll be taken across the waters and listen to the history of the lake itself. On the premier cruise, you get all that plus locally made pine tea and chocolate-covered Saskatoon berries to enjoy during the ride. Don’t forget, you’ll also leave the boat with a custom postcard to commemorate the trip.

These last two cruises are a little bit more targeted to certain folk. For example, the junior explorer cruise was specially made for kids between six and 12 years old. Kids will receive a complimentary journal and a cool treat with their ticket, and for every adult ticket purchased, you get a child’s ticket for free!

Last but not least, the beer voyage is 18 and over only, meaning it’s a kid-free zone at 5 p.m. each sailing day. You’ll be on the waters with a beer in hand, only from the best breweries around.

There’s also a free shuttle service to and from the lake! If you’re in Banff, you’re in luck. Just present your ticket to the shuttle driver, and you’ll be on your way. For exact times and locations of the shuttle, check out its website for the specific details.

You’ll be wanting to book your ticket before the summer is over, I know it. So, don’t wait for it to be all booked up, and make the most of a trip to the lake.

When: Now until October 2026
Time: Various times
Where: Lake Minnewanka Scenic Dr., Improvement District No. 9, Alta.
Cost: $75+

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Alyssa Gallardo

Alyssa is a Staff Writer for Dished and Curiocity Edmonton. She’s a big fan of everything entertainment, and can always be seen running around the city going from concert to concert.

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