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Introduction:
I arrived at Vancouver Airport at 8:00pm for my 10:50pm departure to New York and was immediately helped by a friendly check-in agent. He explained to me the location of the lounge, and how to find security. This flight to New York is unique in that you don’t actually clear customs in Vancouver.
There was no line-up for security and I was through in less than 5 minutes. The lounge is located between gates 66 and 67, airside, on the 3rd level. The lounge hours vary seasonally, based on flight schedules:
It’s hard to miss the entrance to the lounge with the signature cardboard cut-out crew member. Personally, I find it a bit cheesy.
The Lounge:
A short ride up to the 3rd floor brings you to the main entrance of the lounge. Recently renovated and re-opened in May, 2016, the new Cathay Pacific space is both elegant and contemporary and features seating for approximately 108 people spread out over almost 5500 square feet. The lounge is open to First and Business Class passengers travelling on Cathay Pacific and members of the Marco Polo Club with Silver Card status or above and members of all tiers who earn lounge passes and/or their friends and family, including oneworld members with Sapphire status or above.
I thought the lounge was stunning, with tasteful décor and ample seating throughout.
I decided to settle into one of the seats facing the windows. The seat was very comfortable with a small side table for snacks and beverages. The seat also featured electrical outlets for my electronic devices.
There was a small snack selection with beverages and a self-serve coffee station adjacent to the main seating area.
In a separate section of the lounge was Cathay Pacific’s signature Noodle Bar, offering a selection of Hong-Kong inspired soups. There was also a large self-serve bar with plenty of spirits and a small selection of wines and champagne.
The Lounge also featured private washrooms with large rainforest showers and Aesop amenities. The space felt very luxurious and was a great way to freshen up before a flight.
Bottom Line
The new Cathay Pacific Lounge at Vancouver Airport is one of the best I’ve visited. North American carriers simply cannot compete with their offerings for pre-departure services. All of the staff were attentive and polite, and at no point did I find the lounge crowded.
Food offerings were plentiful for such a late departure and the drink selection was great.
The highlight for me was definitely the private shower room. The space was finished beautifully with high quality materials and provided a spa-like setting prior to departure. The amenities were high quality and helped create a blissful atmosphere.
I would consider this a game-changer for North American lounges. I would put it on par with American Express Centurion Lounges in the states, minus the (sometimes) large crowds. I can’t think of a better way to spend a couple of hours before a flight, and can’t wait to return the next time I fly on Cathay Pacific out of Vancouver.
I’ve been there and it’s great. While I realize it may not be possible to have a dedicated section for First Class passengers, my only suggestion would be possibly have a special menu or drink selection for those passengers in First.
That’s a great suggestions. There are some lounges globally that offer just that – more private seating, champagne, etc. Glad you enjoyed the lounge as much as I did!
do you have to fly first class to have access to this lounge?
Great question! For this particular lounge, you need to be flying business or first class on Cathay Pacific or have Saphire status with oneworld airline alliance!