First conceived in 1979, the little electric ferries in False Creek experienced a precarious launching as the early owners struggled to get the idea of a waterborne jitney service to catch on.  When young ferry operator Jeff Pratt came aboard in 1982, he shivered his way back and forth across False Creek all winter in an open, rain-sodden ferry, most days reaping less than $10 in fares.

He didn't dream that one day he would skipper a squadron of twelve boats which is the Aquabus fleet today.  The Aquabus was formed in 1983 and has grown in lockstep with the population around False Creek ever since.  Four Benford-designed ferries were on-stream by EXPO 86; three more plus a bicycle ferry (called the Cyquabus) by 1995; the restored historic vessels 'Rainbow Hunter' and 'Olympic Rainbow' by 2001 and a second Cyquabus in 2004.  Cyquabus III was launched in the spring of 2006 and Cyquabus IV will be online in the spring of 2009 as Aquabus casts a contemplative eye on the 2010 Olympics looming over the horizon.

 

 

 

         
TRADITIONAL AQUABUS

 

CYQUABUS FERRIES

   ANTIQUE FERRIES
A reliable and versatile vessel, The Traditional Aquabus is an original design by naval architect J. Benford; designed for the very purpose that it serves today.

These year-round ferries run on every route and will accommodate cyclists on the Granville<>Hornby route when necessary.  Strollers are welcome aboard, however please ensure they are collapsible.

 

   The Cyquabus class ferry was designed to meet the needs of commuting and recreational cyclist.

Connecting Granville Island with CITY BIKE ROUTES and the Seawall to Stanley park, the Cyquabus is a quick and affordable alternative to cycling the bridges.  Operating daily in summer and fair-weather, the Cyquabus' route will continue to expand with Cyquabus III on-line in the of Spring 2006.

   A classic, local-water work boat has been meticulously converted to bring a little bit of history back into False Creek. 

The 'Rainbow Hunter' is ideal for the popular MINI-CRUISE, just hop aboard and relax and enjoy the city and mountain views.  This popular ferry operates daily in summer serving all stations between Granville Island and Yaletown's Davie Street.  Look for it in Coal Harbour in early 2008!