Tour Details
Uncover Vancouver's dirtiest secrets on this fascinating walking tour, delving into the city's most scandalous prohibition-era history. From blind pigs to opium dens, you’ll see a side of Vancouver you never knew existed!
Your journey begins outside Monaco cafe on Water St, when prohibition arrived in British Columbia. As saloon doors swung shut, Vancouver transformed into a haven of illicit booze, crime, and vice. Your guide will regale you with tales of villains, crooked politicians, and mobsters who ruled the city during the roaring twenties, including Vancouver’s very own “Al Capone,” Joe Celona.
As you stroll past ornate heritage buildings, wander down narrow alleyways unchanged for over a century, and walk along historic streets once teeming with bawdy houses, saloons, and blind pigs, you’ll gain a unique perspective on Vancouver’s colorful past. As former mayor LD Taylor famously said, “This is a port city, we ain’t no Sunday School town!”
The tour concludes on the cobblestone streets of Maple Tree Square, surrounded by Gastown's most talked-about bars and restaurants. It’s the perfect spot to share your newfound knowledge and stories with friends and family over a post-tour dinner or drinks.
This walking tour gives visitors a behind-the-scenes glimpse into Vancouver's scandalous secrets through thrilling tales of mobsters and crime during the Prohibition era and visits to the locations where these crimes occurred. Reserve a spot on this amazing walking tour, and get ready to explore Vancouver's dark history!
Duration: 2 hours
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How to Book Shore Excursions
You can book these tours Online or Call. To buy online, visit our iCruise Shore Excursions website.
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Reference: Holland America Line, Zaandam, Departing Fri, Jul 11, 2025
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More about this tour
Shore Excursion Size: Standard
Shore Excursion Type: Scenic, Cultural, Historical
Shore Excursion Duration: 2
Shore Excursion Departs From: The meeting location is approximately a 13-minute (1/2 mile) walk from the pier. If choosing to take a taxi (not included, approximately $18 CAD round trip) it is about a 6 minute ride.
Activity Level: Moderate
Food/Beverage Provided: None
Recommended Dress: We recommed comfortable walking shoes, appropriate outerwear depending on the time of year and weather. Rain jackets and boots are recommended in Spring and Fall.
Restrictions: The tour is not considered suitable for children under 14 years of age. Guests may bring their infants, but will be asked to separate themselves from the rest of the group if the child becomes unhappy. The tour is available to wheelchair guests who have a
