2015 DVC Alaska Member Cruise 5/25-5/31/15

[poison ivy]

I think our biggest hurdle with the cabs from YVR is size. We're a party of 6. From everything I've read, it would take 2 cabs to transport us - unless we happen to get a larger vehicle which isn't guaranteed. So that's double the cost. We're exploring all options at this point. May go with a private company.

 

[tidefan]

I think our biggest hurdle with the cabs from YVR is size. We're a party of 6. From everything I've read, it would take 2 cabs to transport us - unless we happen to get a larger vehicle which isn't guaranteed. So that's double the cost. We're exploring all options at this point. May go with a private company.

Have you considered the SkyTrain?

 

[poison ivy]

Have you considered the SkyTrain?

I did consider it at first but with our group (which JQ is correcting me stands at 5 - not 6 - not sure where I picked up the other passenger ) the logistics seemed too cumbersome. We have a decent rail system in NJ that runs the NE Corridor plus a light rail system to Phl so we're pretty well versed when it comes to a train. But with the luggage on this trip, on top of a long day of travel and travelling with a party of 5, I just don't want to deal with it when we arrive at YVR.

It does look really nice though.

FYI - Here are my notes so far on the Sky Train; etc.... including a few testimonials dissected from several DIS'ers here on the boards.
(I have notes on a ton of stuff for this trip!! It's crazy!!)

Right now, I'm leaning toward that Aerocar Service noted at the bottom of this post.

Please, anyone who's in the know, feel free to correct / add anything.

SkyTrain / Bus / Cabs – around Vancouver

http://www.disboards.com/showthread.php?t=3312176

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1ABsRbed-oo&t=5m31s

The Skytrain Canada Line is an automated driverless light rapid transit system running from the Vancouver International Airport (YVR) to downtown Vancouver. It leaves YVR from about 5:10 AM to 12:57 AM. The frequency is about every 12 minutes. Please check their website (www.translink.ca) for any changes or updates. The nearest station to the Sheraton Wall Centre Hotel is Vancouver City Centre (corner West Georgia and Granville St). It is located 6 blocks from the hotel and is about 10-12 minutes walk to the station. One way fare is $7.50 CAD.

FareSaver Tickets are a book of ten TransLink tickets that can be used on the Bus, SeaBus or SkyTrain. They offer savings over buying single fares.

For example, buying 10 single fare tickets for 1 zone will cost you $25, while using FareSaver tickets costs only $21, saving 16%. On a daily basis, travel to and from work in one zone will cost you $5.00 per day paying with cash, or $4.20 using FareSaver tickets.

Each FareSaver lets you travel for up to 90 minutes across Metro Vancouver. You can hop off for errands and then hop back on again.

You can travel for one, two or three zones by Bus, SeaBus or SkyTrain. Tickets for the West Coast Express must be purchased separately as they are priced differently.

You can travel up to 90 minutes for each single fare or FareSaver ticket in the zone(s) purchased. You can transfer between bus, SkyTrain and SeaBus in any direction.

Fare receipts and validated FareSaver tickets also serve as transfers.

Single fare passengers travelling more than one zone should always request a transfer when boarding and keep it as proof of payment.

Testimonials re: Logistics (Vancouver)


Vancouver Airport

The immigrations/customs line was REALLY long, but moved pretty quickly. After that you go and get your luggage. Luggage carts are free, but you do have to find one. Once you have your luggage we had a HUGE line to exit the area. You’ll need the customs form you filled out on the plane to leave with your luggage, so don’t put it away after your passport check at immigration. Round and round and round and you’ll eventually make it outside.
We decided to take a taxi, so we jumped in the taxi line. It was nice to be out in the sun and not dying of heat and humidity. My guess it was in high 60s. Line seemed long, but moved very quickly. Since with we four, and had five bags, we were put in a hatchback with a little more trunk room than the standard cab.

The cab driver was great. Just enough chatting, but not overwhelmingly so. DH paid for the cab, so I don’t have exact numbers, but I think it was roughly $40 with tip to go do the Hyatt Regency downtown.

_________________________________________________________

I wish that we had gotten a taxi from the airport to the Sheraton the first day. We took the train. It ended up costing us over $30 with only one zone on the weekend getting the tickets at the kiosk at the station because we couldn't find the 7-11 and after traveling for over 12 hours we just wanted to get out and to our hotel. The guy at the station told us to take the train, then transfer to a bus with the same ticket. We had 3 48 pound bags and 4 carryons. Didn't think we would get on a bus so we opted to go to the Central station and walk 6 blocks. It wouldn't have been as bad if it hadn't been uphill to the hotel the last couple blocks. We also lost a wheel on one of the big bags. We took a taxi from the Pan to the Westin at the Airport and it was just under $30...and we got there in 15 minutes. IMO that was worth the little extra with two zones.

_____________________________________________________________

Aerocar Service provided vans at curbside without making reservations. I figured that was the way to go. Again, we followed the signs to ground transportation and Aerocar had a podium right at the end of the crosswalk. I asked if they had a van to take 6 people and about 10 pieces of luggage to the Pan Pacific. Well, as it turned out, they didn’t have a van, but they did have a stretch limo all for just $61.

 

[xlxo]

I think our biggest hurdle with the cabs from YVR is size. We're a party of 6. From everything I've read, it would take 2 cabs to transport us - unless we happen to get a larger vehicle which isn't guaranteed. So that's double the cost. We're exploring all options at this point. May go with a private company.

I vote 2 taxis.... no reservations required and it's not much more than aerocar.

 

[poison ivy]

I vote 2 taxis.... no reservations required and it's not much more than aerocar.

I think we'll decide when we arrive unless I find a comparable private transport deal.

It's not cheap when you need more than 1 taxi.

The cabs are really small -
here's that video I posted Pages back showing the walk from the Skytrain station at the Waterfront to the cruise terminal at Canada Place. You'll notice the cabs lined up at the port. We're gonna be crowded in one of those cars!!

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QMKXjXWDh2o

 

[poison ivy]

One more video:

this one is 15 minutes long so be prepared. but if you watch that walking to the Wonder youtube video I posted above in conjunction with this you'll get a great visual of activity around this area at the port. (which is something I needed!)

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gFUQnElU91g

This video shows the parking garage, taxi, bus and foot traffic flowing in and out of the cruise terminal underneath the Pan Pacific Hotel at Canada Place.

Horizon Bus is running a ton of activity. I'm not sure which bus line is Disney's transfer company. Cabs seem to be in abundance with a good mix of minivans vs. prius type vehicles so I'm much less worried about it now.

There are also several clear shots looking toward the Sky Train terminal from the port (red brick building). It doesn't appear to be more than a block away once you exit the terminal.

Looks like busses and taxis load at an underground point. I'm particularly interested in the QuickShuttle (red bus) pick up which I believe is somewhere underground here, and was hoping it emerged at some point since we are in all likelihood catching it back to SeaTac. You'll finally see it pull in at the 14:20 mark and reemerge at 14:57 which confirms we can easily board directly off the ship.

At the 5:56 - 8:23 - 11:16 - 14:33 marks you'll see the Free Shuttle bus for the Capilano Suspension Bridge. Obviously this is not a continuous video stream and the timing is more spaced out, but they do seem to run pretty steady. I'm still not sure exactly where it picks up. But we're planning to take it.

At the 7:27 mark the Fairmont Waterfront Hotel sign comes into view - located right across the street from the Pan Pacific / cruise terminal.

Enjoy. I hope this helps someone else as much as it did for us.

 

[poison ivy]

If you haven't seen this couples videos of their Disney Alaskan Cruise
you really should.

I just started enjoying them. So many great Disney moments! It truly captures the essence of a Disney Alaskan Cruise.

Tracy Arm Day is incredible. It's amazing to hear that waterfall and watch the seals. You'll see how cold it is and how CROWDED the bow of the ship was.

I keep saying how I can't wait for this cruise and I SERIOUSLY cannot wait for this cruise.

Start with Day 1.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gURTGt6vgw8

 

[poison ivy]

Last video I promise *for now*

Great video of the "other side" of the Pan Pacific. Shows the various hotels and sightseeing bus / shuttle pick up points. There are a couple Fairmont hotels and this video really shows how close each one is to Canada Place.

I imagine this is a typical late afternoon at the port.

appreciate the person who took the time to film.

It's 17 min long but very informative. Includes a detailed tour of the Pan Pacific hotel and harborview room.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4QsWaqjv72c

ok back to work. Check in with everyone later.

 

[Jay Kat]

OK you are all excited to get there, as are we, but I went ahead and booked the return. I have FF miles on SW, but for whatever reason (Memorial Day?) the good fares to Seattle are gone. So I am deciding on an alternative. MEANWHILE, we decided after 7 glorious days on the ship, and the getting there before, we would just want to GO HOME afterwards.So I booked a flight from YVR home thru Denver. Yes, I will have to pay extra for bags, and yes, we will get in very late, but we think that is the way to go. So THAT part is booked. Now to get there......

 

[karaeric96]

OK you are all excited to get there, as are we, but I went ahead and booked the return. I have FF miles on SW, but for whatever reason (Memorial Day?) the good fares to Seattle are gone. So I am deciding on an alternative. MEANWHILE, we decided after 7 glorious days on the ship, and the getting there before, we would just want to GO HOME afterwards.So I booked a flight from YVR home thru Denver. Yes, I will have to pay extra for bags, and yes, we will get in very late, but we think that is the way to go. So THAT part is booked. Now to get there......

Going through Denver? Which airline? We live just outside of Denver, will be flying YVR to Denver on 6/1.

 

[Johnny Quest]

Wow Poison ivy!

Thanks for the preview of our trip. I want to leave tomorrow. The Pan Pacific looks fantastic and Vancouver is beautiful...I can't wait. I agree that the Quick Shuttle looks like the best way to get to SeaTac. Here's hoping for good weather.

 

[Jay Kat]

Going through Denver? Which airline? We live just outside of Denver, will be flying YVR to Denver on 6/1.

There is a United flight YVR to Denver, then we go on the KC. it is at 3:00 ish. BUT...when I was comparing and digging, when I went to the United site, it was close to $300 more per person (to KC) than Orbitz. Needless to say, I booked thru Orbitz!!!! There were plenty of seats as of last night. Let me know if you take it and we can hook up!

 

[xlxo]

Love the videos...

I think we'll decide when we arrive unless I find a comparable private transport deal.

It's not cheap when you need more than 1 taxi.

The cabs are really small -
here's that video I posted Pages back showing the walk from the Skytrain station at the Waterfront to the cruise terminal at Canada Place. You'll notice the cabs lined up at the port. We're gonna be crowded in one of those cars!!

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QMKXjXWDh2o

There are generally three or four types of taxi's in Vancouver. Prius, Prius V, and minivan's. Some are Toyota Camry's. I see a combination of vehicles in the video.

As someone who travels with beaucoup luggage, I will wait for a larger taxi if the first bunch are small ones when I have too much luggage. When requesting taxi's from dispatch, I advise them how many people and how many large suitcases will need to be transported, they make a decision on cab size. It's amazing what can fit in a Prius V with the seats flipped around. But those wheelchair minivan's can haul even more.

If two taxi's cost $70.... that's still cheaper than Aerocar's $77-103 SUV rate from Vancouver to Canada Place.
http://aerocar.ca/rates/flat-rates/

 

[karaeric96]

There is a United flight YVR to Denver, then we go on the KC. it is at 3:00 ish. BUT...when I was comparing and digging, when I went to the United site, it was close to $300 more per person (to KC) than Orbitz. Needless to say, I booked thru Orbitz!!!! There were plenty of seats as of last night. Let me know if you take it and we can hook up!

Interesting! I wonder if we are on the same flight?! We are booked on an AirCanada flight (opperated by United) departing at 3:03.

Funny, we also noticed that the United site was more per ticket, I think I used Kayak and booked through Vayama. FWIW, we have already been notified of flight time changes twice. First our outbound flight time changed (got later) and then our return flight changed (also got later). All good, at least we will be going!!

 

[tidefan]

Is anyone flying out of Bellingham?

 

[poison ivy]

Love the videos...


There are generally three or four types of taxi's in Vancouver. Prius, Prius V, and minivan's. Some are Toyota Camry's. I see a combination of vehicles in the video.

As someone who travels with beaucoup luggage, I will wait for a larger taxi if the first bunch are small ones when I have too much luggage. When requesting taxi's from dispatch, I advise them how many people and how many large suitcases will need to be transported, they make a decision on cab size. It's amazing what can fit in a Prius V with the seats flipped around. But those wheelchair minivan's can haul even more.

If two taxi's cost $70.... that's still cheaper than Aerocar's $77-103 SUV rate from Vancouver to Canada Place.
http://aerocar.ca/rates/flat-rates/

yes. I noticed that too. There was a decent combination of vehicle types picking up at the port. Do you know if the minivans charge the same fare as the Prius?

Right now, we may only need that taxi 1 way from YVR to the Pan Pacific and I'm still not sure how easy it will be to hail a larger vehicle. There didn't seem to be as many for that direction. Were those Aerocar rates US$? I couldn't tell from their website.

 

[poison ivy]

Is anyone flying out of Bellingham?

Haven't booked our return yet, but I think we're flying Southwest out of SeaTac to San Diego. Are you driving to Bellingham?

 

[Jay Kat]

Interesting! I wonder if we are on the same flight?! We are booked on an AirCanada flight (opperated by United) departing at 3:03.

Funny, we also noticed that the United site was more per ticket, I think I used Kayak and booked through Vayama. FWIW, we have already been notified of flight time changes twice. First our outbound flight time changed (got later) and then our return flight changed (also got later). All good, at least we will be going!!

Pretty sure it is the same flight. But when I looked on Orbitz (I like and use Kayak too, btw), the United flight was cheaper than the AIr Canada. I went back and forth a couple of times...same leaving time, same gate, same seats open. So I took the cheaper United option. So, we will SEE YOU THERE. And if time gets changed and we miss our connection out of KC, may we stay with you?

 

[tidefan]

Haven't booked our return yet, but I think we're flying Southwest out of SeaTac to San Diego. Are you driving to Bellingham?

Yes. Taking the SkyTrain to YVR, getting a rental ($89) and driving to the Bellingham airport...

We thought about the Quick Shuttle but with that you have to get off of the bus and take your luggage off as well (so I read). It seems easier in a car. We have until 6:15 for the flight...

 

[karaeric96]

Pretty sure it is the same flight. But when I looked on Orbitz (I like and use Kayak too, btw), the United flight was cheaper than the AIr Canada. I went back and forth a couple of times...same leaving time, same gate, same seats open. So I took the cheaper United option. So, we will SEE YOU THERE. And if time gets changed and we miss our connection out of KC, may we stay with you?

We sure have plenty of room! We live about 35 minutes from DEN, but if you need a place, we got it! You just have to be willing to share with a 90 pound pup and 2 slighlty devious kitties.