Haida Gwaii - British Columbia Cruise

Meet early morning to take part in what Bluewater calls the ‘Land Tour’ of Haida Gwaii prior to boarding the boat; expanding your understanding of Haida culture and allowing a deeper appreciation and comprehension of the land and incredible historic sites we will see during the trip. The land tour includes a visit to the Haida Heritage Centre, traditional Haida lunch, and an interpretive walk at Spirit Lake. In the afternoon, guests are transferred by shuttle van to Moresby Camp where you will meet your Bluewater Adventures crew & vessel, enjoy dinner onboard, and set sail south for Gwaii Haanas.

The islands of Gwaii Haanas offer an ethereal landscape of sandy beaches, lowland rainforest, and boggy plateau. The archipelago also provides a remarkable evolutionary showcase. Theories suggest that parts of Haida Gwaii escaped the last ice age, forming a refuge for plant and animal life. This helps to explain the presence of unique plant species and sub-species of wildlife found only in archipelago.

Haida Watchmen welcome us to historic Haida village sites including T’aanuu Llnagaay (Tanu), K’uuna Llnagaay (Skedans), and SGang Gwaay (Anthony Island) – a designated UNESCO World Heritage Site. The Haida Watchmen share their knowledge of traditional culture and bring their ancestors’ villages to life under weathered monumental poles and amid the remains of multi-tiered longhouses. Weather permitting, we may visit Hlk’yah GawGa (Windy Bay) on Lyell Island, the site of the first pole raised in 130 years. There may also be a chance to visit G̱andll K’in Gwaay.yaay (Hotspring Island) for a refreshing hot soak.

In addition to these incredibly special historic Haida sites, guests can anticipate days filled with flora and fauna, shore excursions, and the potential for morning and evening kayaking. A vast array of seabirds and marine life such as whales and sea lions will keep us company at sea; while floating through K’iid Xyangs K’iidaay (briefly known as Burnaby Narrows) gazing down at the rainbow of intertidal life is always another highlight. Haida Gwaii also offers excellent opportunities to raise the sails and give guests the thrill and serenity of sailing.

Guests will disembark around mid-morning back at Moresby Camp where the shuttle bus will be waiting to return them back to the (Sandspit) K’il Kun Xidgwangs Daanaay Airport. Guests can plan to catch the afternoon flight back to Vancouver or explore the area further on their own.

We keep our itineraries purposefully flexible allowing our captains to cater to the needs and interests of their group as well as take into account weather, wildlife sightings, and more. 

Vessel Type: Motor Sailer

Length: 68f / 20.7m

Passenger Capacity: 12

Island Roamer is a classic 68-foot motor-sailer that pioneered small-ship eco-tourism along British Columbia’s rugged coastline. Launched in 1983, she was the first vessel of her kind to explore the remote northern reaches of the coast, offering an intimate wilderness experience with just 12 guests on board. Her size and shallow draft allow access to narrow channels and secluded bays that larger vessels cannot reach, giving travellers the chance to encounter wildlife and landscapes up close. With six comfortable double-occupancy cabins, shared bathrooms with hot showers, and protected on-deck seating, Island Roamer provides a welcoming and practical base for coastal exploration.

Life aboard Island Roamer blends adventure with comfort. Guests can relax in the cosy below-deck library with its beautiful teak finishing, enjoy panoramic views from the enclosed wheelhouse, or take to the water in stable sea kayaks and two expedition Zodiacs for respectful wildlife viewing. Operating from May to mid-October, she travels through some of the most spectacular marine environments, from estuaries rich with bears in spring to salmon-filled rivers in autumn. Thoughtfully equipped with organic toiletries, marine binoculars, and safety systems that meet rigorous standards, Island Roamer offers an authentic and memorable sailing experience in one of the world’s most pristine coastal regions.

Vessel Type: Yacht

Length: 82 feet/24.9 meters

Passenger Capacity: 12

Built: 2017

Island Solitude is a purpose-built expedition yacht designed to explore some of the wildest and most remote coastal regions of British Columbia in comfort and style. Launched in 2017 and locally crafted in Richmond, BC, she was created as a larger, more eco-efficient version of Island Roamer, carrying just 12 guests to ensure an intimate, low-impact adventure. With double occupancy ensuite cabins, a spacious enclosed wheelhouse with 360-degree views, and ample deck seating, Island Solitude offers a welcoming base for wildlife watching, kayaking, and dining al fresco beneath the sunset.

Operating from mid-May to mid-October, the vessel travels through the southern reaches of Haida Gwaii in spring and summer before venturing to the Great Bear Rainforest in late summer and autumn. Her small size allows access to remote coves and channels that larger ships cannot reach, while features such as stable sea kayaks, an extensive onboard library, and thoughtful amenities—organic toiletries, marine binoculars, and warm duvets—enhance the experience. With a highly trained crew and rigorous safety standards, Island Solitude combines sustainability, safety, and elegance to create unforgettable coastal expeditions.