Santa’s Christmas Ships 2024: A Magical Holiday Boat Parade in Port Moody & Beyond
Celebrate the festive season with Santa’s Christmas Ships, a beloved tradition bringing holiday cheer to the waterfront communities of Port Moody, Deep Cove, Belcarra, Dollarton, and more. This year, the dazzling Christmas boat parade will delight onlookers every Friday and Saturday evening, beginning on Saturday, November 30, 2024, and continuing through December 21, 2024.
Don’t miss this enchanting event as Santa and his fleet of brightly lit ships sail along the coastline, spreading holiday joy to all who gather by the water.
Event Overview
- Dates: November 30 – December 21, 2024
- Times: 7:00 PM – 9:00 PM (Special early schedule on Nov. 30 from 5:00 PM – 7:00 PM at Rocky Point Park)
- Locations: Port Moody, Deep Cove, Belcarra, Dollarton, and other North Shore waterfront areas
- Admission: Free
- Weather Dependent: The schedule is subject to weather conditions.
Special Event: Cheer at the Pier at Rocky Point Park
Kick off the festivities on Saturday, November 30, 2024, at Rocky Point Park in Port Moody. The Cheer at the Pier Celebration runs from 5:00 PM to 7:00 PM, featuring live music, holiday cheer, and a special appearance by Santa’s Christmas Ships at 6:00 PM. Bring your family and get an up-close view of the spectacularly lit boats as they sail into the boat launch area.
Don’t miss this opportunity to meet Santa, as Rocky Point Park is the only location he’ll visit this year!
Santa’s Christmas Ships 2024 Tentative Schedule
- Nov 30 (Sat): Rocky Point Park, Port Moody
Special early schedule: 6:00 PM – 7:00 PM
(Cheer at the Pier event runs from 5:00 PM – 7:00 PM) - Dec 6 (Fri): Deep Cove Christmas Ships Party
Route: Woodlands to Brighton Beach
Festivities include live music and a bonfire. - Dec 7 (Sat): Open Cruise (No fixed destination, skipper’s choice)
- Dec 13 (Fri): Farrer Cove, Bedwell Bay
Water-access-only event. - Dec 14 (Sat): Belcarra & Dollarton, North Vancouver
Water-access-only event. - Dec 20 (Fri): Belcarra, Ravenwoods, Deep Cove, Dollarton, and Cates Park
A festive evening covering multiple waterfront destinations. - Dec 21 (Sat): Open Cruise (No fixed destination, skipper’s choice)
Tips for Spectators
- Light Up Your Docks: If you live along the waterfront, decorate your docks and flash your house lights to guide the ships closer. The skippers love to see festive lights and will respond with horn blasts!
- Make Some Noise: Shout out greetings and cheer—Santa and his crew will reply with festive honks from their boats.
- Dress Warm: Be sure to bundle up as temperatures by the water can get chilly. Bring blankets, warm drinks, and holiday spirit to make the most of this magical evening.
Plan Your Visit
- Accessibility: This event is designed for everyone to enjoy. Bring your family, friends, and neighbors to experience the magic.
- Viewing Spots: The best views are from public waterfront areas such as Rocky Point Park, Deep Cove, and other designated stops along the route.
- Parking: Parking may be limited near popular viewing spots, so arrive early or use public transportation if possible.
Why You Should Attend
Santa’s Christmas Ships is a unique and heartwarming tradition that combines the beauty of holiday lights with the charm of a festive boat parade. Whether you’re catching the ships at Rocky Point Park during the Cheer at the Pier event or enjoying the spectacle from a cozy waterfront spot, this event promises unforgettable holiday memories for the entire family.
Mark your calendar and be part of the Santa’s Christmas Ships 2024 journey as it brings joy, music, and festive lights to waterfront communities across Metro Vancouver.
For more holiday events across Metro Vancouver, visit Vancouver Christmas.
