North Vancouver Island Cruise
An Autumn Delight
Revel in the seasonal shift during the solitude of the shoulder season
The waters we travel through in Johnstone Strait and Blackfish Sound are home to some of the best orca viewing British Columbia has to offer. Combine these wildlife viewing moments with learnings about First Nations culture and massive old-growth forests, and this itinerary brings in to focus all that makes British Columbia so special during a time of year that really lets you settle into the remoteness of the coast.
Highlights
• A Whale Wonderland. Orcas, humpback whales, Dall’s porpoise, Pacific white-sided dolphins, sea lions, sea otters and more call these rich waters home.
• Harness the Wind. This itinerary is positioned well along the coast to provide our crew good chance to raise the sails and give our guests the sailing experience.
• Cultural History. With a handful of notable traditional and current First Nations culture sites, guests will get a glimpse into the rich history of the Kwakwaka’wakw people.
• Bear Viewing. As we voyage up glacial fjords, we are given the chance to spot grizzly bears along the shoreline.
• Land & Sea Exploration. Ample time to explore rocky outcrop islands and the towering cedar trees by morning or evening kayak trips and midday hikes.
Meet your Bluewater Adventures crew & vessel late morning in Port McNeill, and escape civilization into a maze of islands and waterways featuring old growth forests, rugged archipelagos, cozy anchorages, and amazing wildlife.
Kayaking the protected waters of our nightly anchorages, daily shore excursions, and chances to raise the sails add to the expedition as a taste of everything British Columbia has to offer.
Our focus these days will be on the waters of Johnstone Strait, Blackfish Sound, and Queen Charlotte Strait where we hope to encounter whales. Two species of Orca can be spotted in these waters: Northern Resident Orca and Bigg’s (transient) Orca. In addition, keep watch for the blows of humpback whales whose population has made a significant comeback to these waters.We will visit the modern Kwakwaka’wakw community of Alert Bay to visit the U’Mista Cultural Centre. A highlight of their display is the impressive Potlatch Collection featuring masks and regalia which were confiscated by the Canadian government in 1921. The Kwakwaka’wakw people fought for decades for the return of these sacred items. Thanks to their efforts, these important items now help us learn about the art, culture, and history of the Kwakwaka’wakw people.
We return to Port McNeill late morning to complete our voyage. Guests can plan to catch afternoon flights from nearby Port Hardy 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.
|
Book now |
Cabin
|
Book now |
Cabin
|
Book now |
Cabin
|
Book now |
Cabin
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.
Inclusions
• All meals and accommodation while onboard
• Full crew, fuels, any applicable permit and user fees
• Full use of all facilities onboard ship
• Select itineraries include pre-night accommodation and shuttle service to and from the vessel
Exclusions
• Transportation to and from the start /completion point of the trip
• Airport transfers – unless indicated otherwise
• $200 sustainability fee
• Travel or cancellation insurance and crew gratuities
______________
• Canadian tax (GST) of 5% must be added on to trips operating in British Columbia. All FIT bookings are also subject to a $200 sustainability fee.
Yacht
Our Associates Include
