Boat rides and warm nights go hand in hand during Vancouver's summer months, and when you pair both of those things with salsa dancing, things will go from warm to hot.
Salsa Cruises brings a fun and unique nightlife experience to Vancouver during the summer that's worth checking out. Make your way down to Denman Street and West Georgia Street in Coal Harbour, and step aboard the MV Britannia.
This boat is three levels and the largest cruising vessel that can accommodate just under 500 people. On the three levels, you'll find a mix of salsa, merengue, bachata and reggaeton music, with some top 40, R&B and hip hop music blended throughout.
Vancouver's evening sky awaits — Photo courtesy of Teamcoltra / Wikimedia Commons
When things heat up, because they will, check out the third level that's open so you can stargaze and catch some fresh air. While you dance the night away on this massive boat, you'll also be cruising around Vancouver and soaking up the evening sights of False Creek and the surrounding areas.
It's a fun way to explore the city!
It doesn't matter if you're a veteran salsa dancer or a beginner; all levels are welcome to join. However, if you're new to salsa dancing, they offer a 20- to 30-minute beginner's salsa lesson that's taught by some of Vancouver's best instructors.
Everyone here is passionate about dancing and sharing that joy, no matter your skill. Couples, singles and groups are welcome, too!
Feeling peckish after all that dancing? They sell Mexican nibbles aboard, and there are alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks available for purchase, too. Make sure to bring cash, as they don't accept credit cards and there isn't an ATM on the boat.
The ship boards at 8:30 p.m. and sets sail at 9:30 p.m. sharp, so be sure to get there on time. If you're driving, make sure to budget for time to find parking, too.
The cruise lasts for three hours and returns to the harbor at 12:30 a.m.
Tickets can be purchased online, or in person at the following locations:
- Los Guererros
- HighLife Records
- Saltenas
- Patron Tacos & Cantina
- Afro Hair Salon
- Azteca Beauty Salon
- Pepitas
If the night you'd like to attend is sold out, they sometimes have cancellations and can offer additional tickets on the night of. They start this waiting list at 8 p.m. and ask people to come back at 9:15 p.m. to purchase any no-show tickets.
Like any night of dancing, you'll want to wear comfortable shoes and lightweight clothing so that nothing holds you back and you can dance until your heart's content.
Just be sure to bring a layer to throw on after the cruise, as it tends to cool down quite a bit.
