Welcome to Vancouver- see you in 2025! Registration is now open at register.dragonboatbc.ca!

Please visit concorddragonboatfestival.ca/alerts for our latest racer alerts.

Joining us at the Concord Pacific Dragon Boat Festival from out of town? You’re in good company, with teams hailing from across Canada, different US states, and around the world joining us in Vancouver. Email info@dragonboatbc.ca for trip planning assistance. Visit Registration and Fees for visiting team registration rates, and Visitor Information for Festival program information. Catch highlights of our 2024 Festival below!


2025 Accommodations

We encourage teams to book their rooms as soon as possible to secure the best value. These rates are available as limited time offers only, and are while supplies last. Rates are subject to change without notice. Hotels may be added or removed as inventory changes. Hotels are sorted by proximity to the Festival site.

The Festival currently has the following hotels offering special rates for the 2025 Festival. We expect to be adding more special offers over the coming months. All blocks are first-come, first-served, and expire in late April to early May 2025. Please email info@dragonboatbc.ca for if you require any additional assistance.

Sandman Hotel Vancouver Downtown - Stadium District/Downtown Vancouver: Starting at $309

Sandman Hotel Vancouver Downtown – Stadium District/Downtown Vancouver
$309/night up to double occupancy (1 queen), $315/night for 2 queen room ($25 surcharge for 3rd and 4th guest).
Availability June 17-24. Booking cutoff May 27.
Click here to book at the Festival reservation portal.

Take in all of Vancouver with a downtown hotel stay at Sandman Hotel Vancouver Downtown offering comfortable rooms & suites with premium amenities.  The Sandman is a 5 minute walk from Racer’s Village and the Concord Pacific Dragon Boat Festival.

Downtown Vancouver is just outside the doors waiting for you to check it all out. For those times when you just want to relax and stay in, there’s no shortage of incredible amenities to enjoy, including access to free high-speed Wi-fi throughout. Lounge by the indoor pool anytime of the year, keep up with goals by getting your reps and steps in at our modern fitness centre and flex your business muscles in our 24/7 business centre.

YWCA Vancouver - Stadium District/Downtown Vancouver: (Single rooms left, no group blocks left)

YWCA Vancouver – Stadium District/Downtown Vancouver
When booking individual rooms, booking code will provide 10% off best available rate. Availability June 19-22.
Booking Instructions: Use booking code DBF25VAN online at www.ywcahotel.com. Please note- no further group bookings are available, limited individual rooms are available. To book for an entire team/as a group (10+ people/5+ rooms), contact mfukuta@ywcavan.org or 604 895 5840.

The YWCA Hotel in downtown Vancouver provides a warm welcome to all travellers. They offer comfortable, safe and affordable accommodation in the heart of downtown’s art and entertainment scene.  The YWCA Hotel is also a 10 minute walk from Racer’s Village and the Concord Pacific Dragon Boat Festival.

Whether travelling with a group, a friend or on your own, they have a room to suit your needs and budget. As a social enterprise hotel by YWCA Metro Vancouver, all revenue generated goes to support YWCA community programs and services supporting single moms and families.

Holiday Inn and Suites: Vancouver Downtown - Davie/Burrard: Starting at $299

Holiday Inn and Suites: Vancouver Downtown – Davie/Burrard
$299/night up to double occupancy ($25 surcharge for 3rd and 4th guest)
Availability June 18-25, final day to book April 21.
Click here to book or call 1-800-663-9151 with code DBF for assistance.

Steps from trendy Yaletown bars & restaurants, Robson Street and Shopping, Entertainment District, the Holiday Inn is ideal for a comfortable & stylish stay in the heart of the city. The Holiday Inn is a 20 minute bus ride, or 25 minute walk from Racer’s Village and the Concord Pacific Dragon Boat Festival.

Leisure guests can enjoy a stroll along the Vancouver Seawall and take a ferry across False Creek to Granville Island Market. Corporate guests love the hotel’s free Wi-Fi, convenient access to nearby businesses and convention centres. Guests can work in the Business Centre, and book a meeting room that can accommodate up to 110 people. Includes a by-appointment fitness centre and indoor heated pool.

Delta Hotels Vancouver Downtown Suites - Downtown Vancouver/Gastown: Starting from $499

Delta Hotels Vancouver Downtown Suites – Downtown Vancouver/Gastown
Starting at $499/night for double room for groups requiring 10+ rooms, (surcharge for 3rd and 4th guest)
Availability June 19-24, 2025.
Please note: room reservations are available only via email to Jake.Maguire@marriott.com.

Explore Vancouver from Delta Hotels Vancouver Downtown Suites. Their elevated hotel experience offers spacious family and pet friendly suites featuring separate bedroom and living areas, a mini-fridge, and flat-screen TVs with Netflix connectivity for all the comforts of home.

The Delta Hotels Vancouver Downtown Suites is a 25 minute walk, or 15 minute public transit ride from Racer’s Village and the Concord Pacific Dragon Boat Festival.

During your stay enjoy the amenities including their fully equipped fitness center, and full service restaurant Stock & Supply.

OPUS Vancouver - Downtown Vancouver/Yaletown: Starting from $484

OPUS Vancouver – Downtown Vancouver/Yaletown
Starting at $484/night for standard queen room, (range of rooms available at link)
Availability June 18-24, 2025.
Click here to book.

Set in the heart of Vancouver’s cosmopolitan Yaletown neighborhood—OPUS Vancouver is a boutique lifestyle hotel offering unparalleled luxury experiences. Choose from 96 spacious rooms and suites, with vibrant colour palettes and sophisticated amenities, and revel in on-site dining, with house-made pizza and Italian fare at Capo and delectable cocktails at The Spritz.

The OPUS Vancouver is a 25 minute walk, or 15 minute public transit ride from Racer’s Village and the Concord Pacific Dragon Boat Festival.

You’ll find each room has a personality all its own, just like vibrant Yaletown; some additional features include step-out balconies, fireplaces, and stunning views of the city or garden courtyard. Whether in town for business or leisure, you’ll discover intuitive service and elevated hotel features that make your time in Vancouver truly unforgettable.

Carmana Hotel & Suites - Downtown Vancouver: Variable rates (10% off best rate)

Carmana Hotel & Suites – Downtown Vancouver
Rates variable during period, use code CPDBF for 10% off best available rate at www.carmanahotel.com, (range of rooms available at link)
Availability June 19-24, 2025.
Click here to book.

Located in the downtown Vancouver core, Carmana offers dragon boat teams the ideal stay—our spacious One & Two Bedroom Suites with full kitchens, provide all the comforts of home, so you can rest, recharge, and focus on race day. Quiet yet central, and steps away from the seawall, Stanley Park, and world-class shopping & dining, we ensure a seamless stay so you can focus on paddling, exploring, and celebrating your victories.

The Carmana Hotel & Suites is a 32 minute walk, or 16 minute public transit ride from the Racer’s Village and the Concord Pacific Dragon Boat Festival.

Sandman Suites Vancouver Davie Street: Vancouver Downtown - Davie Village: Starting at $299

Sandman Suites Vancouver Davie Street – Davie Village
$299/night up to double occupancy ($25 surcharge for 3rd guest)
Availability June 17-26, final day to book May 16.
Click here to book.

If you find yourself visiting the popular West End of Vancouver, find yourself at the best spot offering stunning views of English Bay, the Pacific Ocean and breathtaking mountains: Sandman Suites Vancouver Davie Street. The Suites are a 20 minute bus ride, or 25 minute walk from Racer’s Village and the Concord Pacific Dragon Boat Festival.

When here, a work trip will feel like leisure, and a family vacation will be the best one yet. From the comfort of your suite. featuring a full built in kitchen, pull out couch, and 2 twin or 1 queen bed, head out and discover Davie Street, possibly the most culturally diverse street in Vancouver. From coffee shops to lounges and restaurants to retail, a walk up and down the full length of this famed street is 25 minutes and worth every step. In fact, you’re just a three-minute walk to English Bay, where sun worshippers sunbathe during the day, and beachgoers take in the sunset at night. You’re also super close to the chic atmosphere of sidewalk cafes and some of the best nightlife around in Yaletown.

Best Western Plus Sands - English Bay/West End: Starting at $305

Best Western Plus Sands – English Bay
Variable rates depending on day, starting at $305 Queen/night ($305 Sunday-Thursday, $325 Friday-Saturday)
Availability June 16-25, final day to book May 16.
Click here to book at the Festival reservation portal.

This hotel is 2 minutes walk from the beach. Featuring an on-site restaurants and 2 bars, the Best Western Plus Sands is in the heart of Vancouver, only a 4-minute walk from English Bay beach.

The Best Western Plus Sands is a 25-30 minute bus ride, or 40 minute walk from Racer’s Village and the Concord Pacific Dragon Boat Festival.

Sonder Vancouver (Revival/Sunset) - English Bay/West End: Variable Rates

Sonder Vancouver (Revival and The Sunset) – English Bay/West End
Variable rates depending on property and day of week.
Click here to book. Type in code LHSPC5 for 5% off available rates.

Sonder is changing the game—with spaces that inspire and delight, that fulfill needs without sacrificing style, all while delivering seamless, personalized experiences. Check in, request fresh towels, and get dinner recommendations—all from your phone. Two properties are available; the Sunset with kitchens and balconies on each suite for apartment style stays, and Revival for a hotel experience.

Sonder: The Sunset is a 25 minute bus ride, 40 minute walk, or 15 minute drive from Racer’s Village and the Concord Pacific Dragon Boat Festival. Sonder at Revival is a 30 minute bus ride, 50 minute walk, or 15 minute drive from Racer’s Village and the Concord Pacific Dragon Boat Festival.

River Rock Casino Resort - Richmond: Starting at $269

River Rock Casino Resort – Richmond
$269/night up to double occupancy ($25 surcharge for 3rd guest)
Availability June 16-26, final day to book May 16.
Click here to book.

Please note: This hotel requires budgeting additional time to arrive to the Festival site. Teams racing early in the morning may encounter limited public transit services to the Festival site.

Nestled along the Fraser River, our resort offers a perfect blend of entertainment, gaming, and relaxation. Experience thrilling casino action with an array of table games, slots, and poker. Indulge in exquisite dining at our diverse restaurants and unwind in stylish accommodations boasting scenic views. Whether you seek a thrilling night out, a weekend getaway, or a memorable event, River Rock Casino Resort promises an unforgettable experience.

The River Rock Casino Resort is a 40-45 minute train and transit ride, or 30 minute drive from Racer’s Village and the Concord Pacific Dragon Boat Festival.


Visa Requirements, Electronic Travel Authorizations (eTA), and Public Health Requirements

International visitors (except US citizens) require a visa or eTA to fly in to Canada. Please visit Citizenship and Immigration Canada’s website to check entrance requirements. eTAs (valid for multiple entries up to 5 years) are generally required if you do not require a Visa flying in to Canada. Apply for an eTA online on Citizenship and Immigration Canada’s website.

The Festival only provides letters of invitation if required for a visa. To expedite visa letter requests, please contact us with a spreadsheet listing your group members including: full name, passport numbers, date of birth, citizenship, and intended itinerary information. Visa letters are only issued for teams with confirmed race registrations.

If you require a visa, we recommend that you request a visa letter NO LATER THAN MARCH 1 OF THE COMPETITION YEAR. Visa processes often take multiple months, and may exceed even 3 months to process.

International visitors should visit Citizenship and Immigration Canada’s website to determine what document or test information is required to enter Canada. Canadian citizens are encouraged to visit Transport Canada’s website for current information regarding air travel in Canada. The Festival continuously evaluates conditions to meet or exceed public safety and health requirements.


Arriving to Vancouver

Via Air

Vancouver’s main airport is Vancouver International Airport (YVR). Direct flights connect North American, Asian, Oceanian, and European destinations year-round. YVR is a 25 minute public transit train ride or drive to Downtown Vancouver. Connecting travellers from South America, Europe, and Africa may clear customs in Toronto or Montréal, before proceeding to Vancouver.

Vancouver is also served by Abbotsford International Airport (YXX) about a 75 minute drive away, with select service to Canadian and US destinations. Float planes from YVR and Vancouver Harbour Flight Centre connect Vancouver to destinations around BC and to Seattle.

Via BC Ferries

Victoria/Nanaimo: Swartz Bay or Duke Point arrives at Tsawwassen Ferry Terminal (45 minute drive, 90 minute public transit via Translink).

Sunshine Coast/Bowen Island/Nanaimo: Departure Bay, Snug Cove, or Sunshine Coast arrives at Horeshoe Bay Ferry Terminal (30 minute drive, 1 hour public transit via Translink).

Via Road

Via Peace Arch Border Crossing: Take the I-5 to Blaine; then follow Highway 99 to Vancouver

Via Aldergrove Border Crossing: Take the 539; then follow Highway 13 until the exit ramp; connect Westbound Highway 1 until Exit 26; then head Westbound on East Hastings Street to arrive in Vancouver.

Via Highway 1: Take Westbound Highway 1 until Exit 26; then head Westbound on East Hastings Street to arrive in Vancouver.


Getting around Vancouver

Vancouver is a very accessible city, and is easy to get around. We strongly advise visiting teams to take advantage of Vancouver’s public transit system.

Public Transit

Use TransLink and easily get around Vancouver. Simply tap on and off at train stations, or tap on buses using your Compass card (available at ticket vending machines) or with a tap enabled card/device to get around the region.

Get on the Canada Line at YVR Airport, and get off at either Yaletown Roundhouse or Vancouver City Centre for Downtown Vancouver. Most hotels are a short walk away from these stations.

Get to the Festival on transit: Main Street-Science World SkyTrain Station is across the street from our main Festival entrance, Stadium-Chinatown SkyTrain Station is one block away from Racer’s Village and Concord Community Park, and Olympic Village Canada Line Station is a 10 minute walk away from the docks. Buses on Main Street, 2nd Avenue, Abbott Street, and Keefer Street are walking distance from the Festival site.

For more information on using public transit, visit www.translink.ca.

Biking to the Festival

The Festival is conveniently located along the seawall. Bike parking is generally available at the Festival.

Vehicles, Car Share, Ride Share, and Taxis

Public pay parking is available at the Festival: arrive Eastbound on Pacific Boulevard, and look for signage to the right immediately after BC Place Stadium. This area may be limited to pass parking depending on space. Parking lots are also available at Parq Vancouver (39 Smithe Street), at Rogers Arena (80 Expo Boulevard), and at Chinatown Parkade (180 Keefer Street).

Convenient car share services are available in Vancouver. Popular options include Evo and Modo.

Uber, Lyft, and other ride share services are available in Vancouver. The main Festival entrance drop-off is Science World (1455 Quebec Street), and Racer’s Village drop-off is outside of the Concord Pacific parking lots (88 Pacific Boulevard).

Licensed taxis are available throughout Vancouver. Note that while taxis can drop off in the Lower Mainland, they may not be always able to pick you up depending on their geographic license. Your hotel can provide you with taxi information.


Visiting Team Contacts

For general inquiries including visa entries, email us at info@dragonboatbc.ca.

© 2025 Canadian International Dragon Boat Festival Society