These islands offer an unparalleled natural history experience and this voyage aboard this sailing ketch will allow you to explore first hand the beauty of the Gwaii Haanas area.
Haida Gwaii is an outstanding wilderness area, preserving large stands of 'old-growth' rainforest, natural hot springs, and nesting sites for thousands of birds such as puffins, bald eagles, auklets and peregrine falcons. Called the 'Canadian Galapagos', the islands are isolated 60 miles off the coast and have developed unique plants and animals. The southern islands and their incredible diversity of life are now protected and jointly managed by the Haida Nation and Federal Parks Service.
The Haida name for the islands, Gwaii Haanas, translates as 'place of wonder'. During this voyage, you will visit old Haida villages. There are more original standing totem poles remaining here than anywhere else on the coast. The feeling and magic of seeing the totem poles still in the old village site is incredible-completely different than in a museum. You will have the unique opportunity to meet Haida elders during the trip and learn about Haida culture and modern Haida life. The islands are located at the edge of the continental shelf, and the surrounding waters are rich with nutrients and life. It is a wonderful area to discover different species of whales, porpoise, and sea lion breeding rookeries.
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Find out more details about the tour
Aboard the 82' sailing vessel, you will cruise the waters of this remote archipelago seeing ancient Haida villages, an incredible abundance of wildlife and outstanding wilderness scenery. The trips primarily explore the eastern and southern shores which lie within the Gwaii Haanas National Park Reserve and Haida Heritage Site.
Blue, sperm, minke, sei, gray, fin, humpback and killer whales (orca) all historically frequented these waters. Local whaling severely effected these populations in the 1900's. Now humpback and fin whale populations are rebounding; we will often encounter these fascinating creatures. In early summer, several thousand Steller sea lions also congregate at Cape St. James - at the southern tip of Haida Gwaii - to mate and give birth to their pups. It is quite a marvelous sight! You may also spot a few Queen Charlotte Islands black bears, the largest black bears in the world.
Guide information: The crew are experienced sailors and naturalists with extensive knowledge of the area. They will teach you about the diverse natural history of the area.
Transportation: Trips originate and end in Sandspit, British Columbia on the Queen Charlotte Islands. These islands are accessible by ferry from Prince Rupert, BC or by air from Vancouver.
Weather: Summer temperatures are pleasant and average between 15 and 25 degrees Celsius.
This is a custom 82-foot ketch, launched in 1983. The boat's design, safety, and comfort make her perfect for these trips. She features 8 private cabins (double occupancy), 3 heads with hot showers, a large comfortable lounge with an extensive librar...)
This is a custom 82-foot ketch, launched in 1983. The boat's design, safety, and comfort make her perfect for these trips. She features 8 private cabins (double occupancy), 3 heads with hot showers, a large comfortable lounge with an extensive library, and a well-equipped galley. On deck, the large covered seating area provides protection in all types of weather. The boat is large enough for comfort, privacy and safety, and small enough to create a good rapport among passengers and crew.
A certified Canadian Ministry of Transport passenger vessel, it has all of the safety equipment, electronic navigation aids, and features you would expect from a vessel of her standard. All of our cabins have adequate storage space for your bags, personal items, and jackets. Coat hangers and life jackets are stowed in every cabin for your convenience. There is electricity in each room, so you can charge your camera batteries and enjoy a reading light in the evening.
There are 8 private cabins, based on double occupancy. At the time of booking, you may request a type of cabin you would like - single berths or if you and your traveling partner prefer a double berth cabin. Single travelers do not have the choice of the double berth cabin. Specific room bookings are up to the crew once you have arrived onboard the vessel.
The meals aboard have been described has excellent, gourmet and abundant. Fresh wholesome meals are served with a varied menu.)
The meals aboard have been described has excellent, gourmet and abundant. Fresh wholesome meals are served with a varied menu.
A real treat on this tour will be soaking in the picturesque scenery on the beautiful Hot Springs Island. Relaxing in the natural hot springs surrounded by enchanting flora and fauna, you only step away from a refreshing dip in the ocean... what a wo...)
A real treat on this tour will be soaking in the picturesque scenery on the beautiful Hot Springs Island. Relaxing in the natural hot springs surrounded by enchanting flora and fauna, you only step away from a refreshing dip in the ocean... what a wonderful way to spend a day!
$100 per person sustainability fee applies to all tours.
Deposit and Taxes
CANCELLATION POLICY & DETAILS
50% of the deposit is refundable for cancellation more than 90 days prior to departure. No penalty if you transfer to another trip. If you give notice of cancellation 90 days or less prior to departure, no refund is given.
We do strongly recommend travel insurance/trip cancellation insurance.
