Sail through one of the richest wildlife regions on Canada’s Pacific Coast. This 5–7 day small-ship expedition combines orca and humpback encounters, grizzly bear viewing in fjords, kayaking among islands, and visits to Indigenous cultural sites. With cozy cabins, fresh meals, and expert naturalist guides, this is one of the most immersive ways to experience the coastal wilderness of northern Vancouver Island.
Your voyage through Johnstone Strait and the Broughton Archipelago takes place aboard one of the expedition sailboats, either Island Roamer or Island Solitude. Both vessels are small enough for intimate group travel yet fully equipped for comfort and safety. As you sail, you’ll watch for orcas and humpbacks, kayak through sheltered coves, and explore remote fjords where bears roam the shoreline.
Day 1 – Port McNeill Departure
Meet your crew late morning in Port McNeill and set sail into the sheltered waterways of Johnstone Strait. Settle into your cabin and get your first taste of British Columbia’s wild coast.
Days 2–3 – Johnstone Strait & Alert Bay
Spend time in Johnstone Strait and Blackfish Sound, prime waters for orca and humpback whales. Visit Alert Bay to explore the U’Mista Cultural Centre, home to historic masks and regalia of the Kwakwaka’wakw people.
Days 4–5 – Broughton Archipelago
Navigate the maze of islands in Broughton Archipelago Marine Park. Kayak calm bays, watch for porpoises and dolphins, and explore secluded beaches and forested trails.
Days 6–7 – Fjords & Bear Viewing
Cruise into glacial fjords framed by the Coast Mountains. From late summer into fall, grizzly and black bears gather at river estuaries to feed on spawning salmon. Return to Port McNeill by late morning on the final day.
From
Availability 2026:
Based on double occupancy.
Aboard Island Roamer - 7 days
Aug 4 – 10, 2026
Aug 18 – 24, 2026
Price 6,665 CAD/ person
Aboard Island Solitude - 5 days
Oct 15 – 19, 2026
Oct 20 – 24, 2026
Price 5,355 CAD/ person
*All prices are listed in CAD and are subject to a 200 CAD sustainability fee and 5% GST tax.
INTERNATIONAL NUMBER: +1 833 968 0719
You can also send an email to info@adventures.com, or use the contact form here below.
Find out more details about the tour
Guide information: The crews are experienced sailors and naturalists with extensive knowledge of the area. They will teach you about the diverse natural history of the area.
Comments: $200 CAD Sustainability Fee applies to all tours.
Transportation: Trips originate and end in Port McNeill, British Columbia located on the northeast side of Vancouver Island.
Weather: Summer temperatures are pleasant and average between 15 and 25 degrees Celsius.
July–August: Best time for orca and humpback whale activity. August–October: Salmon runs attract grizzly bears to fjords and estuaries. Wildlife highlights also include sea lions, sea otters, dolphins, porpoises, and bald eagles. )
You’ll travel aboard one of two purpose-built expedition sailboats: Island Roamer – A 68-foot sailing ketch designed for comfort and safety, with 8 private double cabins, 3 bathrooms with hot showers, a large lounge, library, and galley. On deck, th...)
You’ll travel aboard one of two purpose-built expedition sailboats:
Island Roamer – A 68-foot sailing ketch designed for comfort and safety, with 8 private double cabins, 3 bathrooms with hot showers, a large lounge, library, and galley. On deck, there’s a covered seating area for wildlife watching in all weather.
Island Solitude – A newer, custom-built 82-foot vessel with a similar small-group setup but modern upgrades, larger cabins with en suite bathrooms, and energy-efficient systems.
Both ships carry kayaks and inflatable rafts for shore excursions and are fully equipped with safety and navigation technology. Life on board is relaxed and communal, with plenty of space for privacy when you want it.
All meals are freshly prepared on board with plentiful portions and varied menus. Guests often enjoy dining together in the lounge or on deck, with complimentary wine served daily. Snacks, coffee, tea, and juice are always available. )
All meals are freshly prepared on board with plentiful portions and varied menus. Guests often enjoy dining together in the lounge or on deck, with complimentary wine served daily. Snacks, coffee, tea, and juice are always available.
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.
