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YVR destination photo
YZP destination photo

YVRYZP

Our Recommendation
8.8

Right Side of the Plane

The right side provides a front-row seat to the dramatic meeting of the Pacific Ocean and the rugged Coast Mountains of British Columbia, featuring deep fjords and glaciated peaks.

Right Side Highlights
9.2
🏙️

Vancouver & North Shore

Stunning views of Stanley Park, the Lions Gate Bridge, and the downtown skyline immediately after takeoff.

🏔️

Coast Mountain Range

Continuous views of massive, glaciated mountain peaks that run parallel to the flight path.

🌊

Desolation Sound

A complex network of deep blue fjords, steep cliffs, and forested islands north of the Sunshine Coast.

🧊

Mount Waddington

On clear days, you may spot the highest peak in British Columbia standing tall in the distance.

⛴️

The Inside Passage

The intricate marine highway used by ferries and cruise ships, visible as narrow channels between islands.

The right side is significantly more scenic for this route. For the best lighting on the mountains, choose a morning flight when the sun illuminates the peaks from the east. Ensure you have a window seat clear of the wing, as the descent into Sandspit often offers a low-altitude view of the dramatic coastal transition.

Left Side Highlights
6.7
🏝️

Gulf Islands

Aerial perspectives of the scattered islands in the Salish Sea shortly after departure.

⛰️

Strathcona Provincial Park

Distant views of the rugged, snow-capped peaks in the center of Vancouver Island.

🌊

Hecate Strait

The vast, shallow stretch of water separating the mainland from the Haida Gwaii archipelago.

🌲

Moresby Island Shoreline

The wild, forested western coastline of the islands as you circle for landing.

Sit on the left if you are flying during a late afternoon or evening flight to catch the sunset over the Pacific Ocean. This side is also better for spotting marine traffic and the expansive scale of the Hecate Strait during the final third of the journey.

Top Activities in Sandspit
Route Information

Distance: 751 km (467 miles)

Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 15 min

Departure: YVR (49.193901061999995, -123.183998108)

Arrival: YZP (53.25429916379999, -131.813995361)

Route Type: Domestic

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