Lake Louise Cruises: Your Best Sailing Tours Reviewed

Lake Louise, is that real with the views like out of a movie? Actually, yes, it definitely lives up to the hype. What could be more spectacular than gliding across those teal waters with glaciers as your backdrop? It’s almost unfair how gorgeous it is. It really presents like an unreal opportunity to experience what Banff National Park offers. So, if you’re planning a trip, ditch the shore gazing for a bit, and think about hopping on one of the several tours. I’ve checked out some options to get the scoop on the best ways to enjoy Lake Louise from the water.

1. Lake Louise Canoe Rentals: Your Paddle Power Adventure

Okay, this one might not technically be a “tour,” yet Lake Louise Canoe Rentals gives you something very special: it really offers pure freedom. Basically, the iconic red canoes you have certainly noticed? They’re up for rent right on the lake. In a way, the deal here is you get to be your own captain. This turns out to be amazing if you feel like exploring the lake at your own speed. You can paddle around and soak in the view; stop when you feel like it to snap some photos. Is that a flexible, rather wonderful plan? As a matter of fact, yes. You could get really close to the shoreline, finding the quiet spots that those bigger tour boats can’t reach. The pros? Well, it’s as independent as it gets and super romantic. The cons? You really better bring your arm muscles because you will be doing all the work! So too, depending on when you visit, anticipate lineups, because everyone wants to get in those canoes.

2. Lake Louise Sightseeing Gondola: Views From Way Up There

So, if you’re maybe not all about that boat life (even though this article is about it), the Lake Louise Sightseeing Gondola will definitely make for views from a seriously incredible angle. Actually, the starting point might be away from the lake. However, hear me out! Is that you can take a ride up the mountain and see Lake Louise stretched out below? Basically, you could definitely be getting a total panorama situation. More or less, the sightseeing gondola whisks you up to an altitude where you’ll be like, “Whoa.” Once at the top, is that you could wander along some trails. So, it’s combining the viewpoint from way high with a touch of hiking. Arguably, this one will have more appeal, since it allows more to explore and take in the scenery. Now, of course, this is not a boat ride. So, you are losing the serenity of being on the water, alright, the pros? Those photo ops. I mean, as I was saying, you just cannot beat them! The cons? Basically, you are also giving up being lakeside for a birds-eye-view.

3. Brewster Lake Louise Boat Tour: A Relaxing Cruise

Next up, let’s have a talk about the Brewster Lake Louise Boat Tour. Actually, you can spot their dock super close to the Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise, so it’s convenient. Is that for people who don’t feel like doing all the paddling? By the way, they offer guided tours on larger boats. Typically, this boat is stable, plus a comfortable ride, so everyone can enjoy it regardless of fitness. Basically, this means you can relax and absorb the gorgeous surroundings while someone else takes control. First, it gets really amazing since they give some cool information about the area, too. The natural history and local tales enhance the experience! Is that, in some respects, it works great if you have kids or just want a chill experience. Very, very relaxing. Now, it is possibly the most “touristy” option. So, keep that in mind if you are trying to get away from crowds.

4. Ice Explorer Glacier Tour: Walking on Ancient Ice

Okay, hear me out; the Ice Explorer Glacier Tour does not directly involve Lake Louise. However, consider the pure coolness aspect. Often, it could be considered related to seeing the glaciers. This one could very easily pair with a trip to Lake Louise because it shows you the source of its icy waters! More or less, you will journey to the Athabasca Glacier in a specialized vehicle that could only be labeled as “beastly.” Then, anyway, you can stroll on literal glacier ice. Frankly, it is the sort of activity that will offer mind-blowing context regarding where that beautiful lake originates! It makes the whole Lake Louise vista even more impressive. Actually, that makes it totally worthwhile. Arguably, the drawback is that you do need a ride to the Columbia Icefield (where the tour starts), because it will run you extra. Actually, still, for sheer bragging rights and perspective, seriously consider making time.

5. Private Guided Tours: Your VIP Lake Louise Experience

So, for those looking for something more special, a few companies give private tours around Lake Louise. Now, with private guided tours, typically, you pay extra. However, this is worth it if you prefer avoiding the crowds, very, very different level of treatment. What tends to be incredible is you have an experienced guide that is giving you insights about local stuff and takes you at your pace. Or, you will find companies offering tailored canoeing experiences, with guides knowing all the hidden gems and quiet spots. Well, that works if you appreciate flexibility! I mean, like your dream experience is the tour just tailored for you! By the way, do think about the splurge because it gets rewarding when trying to escape some crowded, iconic location. Arguably, that makes seeing this well-known treasure truly memorable. Basically, that peace will cost you a pretty penny.