Expedition travel aboard the schooner Passing Cloud - 2020 Edition - Outer Shores Expeditions
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Expedition travel aboard
the schooner Passing Cloud
2020 Edition
2020 Expedition Dates Welcome Message from A Look Inside the
and Destinations Outer Shores President Schooner Passing Cloud
It was an experience not to be
rushed, but rather to be savoured
moment by moment.
Join us aboard the schooner
Passing Cloud as we explore the
wilderness, wildlife, and indigenous
cultures of Canada’s Pacific Coast. You’ll
leave this journey rested and relaxed,
inspired, conscious of vulnerable species
and delicate ecosystems, and filled
with wonderful memories and personal
experiences from this remarkable corner
of the world.
Contents
3 Outer Shores Expeditions
4 Welcome Message from our President
5 Schooner Passing Cloud
7 2020 Expeditions
8 Pacific Rim National Park Reserve
13 Great Bear Rainforest – Spring
“Seldom in life can we claim to have the 18 Gwaii Haanas National Park Reserve
‘perfect experience.’ Passing Cloud and
her captain and crew have made that 25 Great Bear Rainforest – Fall
possible! Thank you for all you do to make 29 Great Bear Photography Tour
this incredible part of the world accessible.
A dream come true!” 34 Southern Gulf Islands
39 Contact
- Louisa, Outer Shores Traveller
Outer Shores Expeditions We are a small-ship, niche adventure travel company operating wildlife, wilderness, and cultural expeditions throughout Canada’s gorgeous Pacific coast, aboard our classic wooden expedition sailing vessel, the Passing Cloud. The best comparison might be to think of us as a ship-based version of an African wildlife safari. We combine pristine wilderness, amazing wildlife, luxurious accommodation, exceptional service, chef-prepared gourmet meals, expert guides, freedom from roads and routes most travelled, and the enticing adventure of never knowing what’s around the next corner. But instead of the Serengeti, Canada’s wild Pacific Coast is a world where humpback whales sing, socialize, and cast bubble nets to capture schools of herring; family groups of killer whales follow massive populations of migrating salmon as they move into glacier- scoured fiords and estuaries; grizzly bears and black bears, including the rare white Spirit Bear, roam wild throughout the Great Bear Rainforest, as they have for millennia; and where indigenous First Nation cultures have been enmeshed in this rich ecological tapestry for more than 15,000 years.
A Welcome Message from Outer Shores Russell has spent his life and career
as a marine ecologist and mariner
Expeditions President, Russell Markel studying, exploring, and sailing the
B.C. coast. Founding Outer Shores
is the realization of his dream
Dear Outer Shores Traveller,
to bring together his experience,
It’s my distinct pleasure to invite you aboard our classic wooden education, and passions to create
schooner, the Passing Cloud, to explore, discover, and experience an organization that fosters
first-hand some of the most biodiverse regions and ancient Indigenous environmental education and
cultures on the Planet, here on Canada’s Pacific Coast.
stewardship.
We are excited to begin our 2020 expedition season by returning to the
west coast of Vancouver Island, to explore Barkley Sound and Pacific
Rim National Park Reserve. Notably, we’re starting earlier than ever this
year in hopes of witnessing one of the great ecological events of the
BC coast –spawning Pacific herring and the abundance of wildlife they
attract. New to our expeditions there this year will be visiting the ancient
Huu-ay-aht village and fortress site known as “Kiixin”.
Upon leaving Pacific Rim in late April, we’ll begin our annual journey
north to the Great Bear Rainforest. This year we’ve included a unique
opportunity for you to join us on our “Spring Migration” from the Salish
Sea to the Great Bear Rainforest. We’ll spend the next month in the
Great Bear enjoying long warm days, exploding wildflowers, and grizzly
bears grazing in coastal estuaries.
In late May, the Outer Shores Crew will sail the Passing Cloud
approximately 175 km west to the Haida Gwaii archipelago, where we’ll
spend the next three months in Gwaii Haanas National Park Reserve,
National Marine Conservation Area Reserve, and Haida Heritage Site.
We are profoundly fortunate to be able to spend so much time exploring
and sharing with our guests this globally significant protected area.
In mid-August we’ll return to the Great Bear Rainforest, timed not only
with the return of wild Pacific salmon to their spawning streams, and the
bears and other wildlife that follow, but also to witness the remarkable
congregations of whales in this region. Humpback whales employing
bubble-net feeding is a truly unforgettable experience!
Finally, we are very excited to announce that we’ve recently been
granted access to visit Láiq (Mussel Inlet) Special Management Area,
located in Kitasoo/Xai’xais First Nation Territory. Outer Shores will be one
of just seven commercial operators that will be able to visit this highly
sensitive area that offers some of the most remarkable grizzly bear
viewing on the BC coast.
Thank you for travelling with Outer Shores. We look forward to
welcoming many new and returning guests aboard the Passing Cloud
in 2020, and sharing untold adventures exploring and experiencing
Canada’s Pacific Coast.
Captain Russell Markel, PhD
Founder and President, Outer Shores Expeditions
Schooner, Passing Cloud Comfort, Safety, & Sailing Ability Our expedition vessel is the beautiful 70’ (21 m) classic wooden schooner, Passing Cloud. This iconic vessel has a rich history on the B.C. Coast, renowned for her elegant design and exceptional sailing abilities. Passing Cloud was designed by William Roué, who also designed the legendary Canadian schooner, Bluenose, featured on the back of every Canadian dime. Built to sail around the world, Passing Cloud is an ideal vessel for exploring and engaging with the nature and cultures of the B.C. Coast.
The schooner Passing Cloud was launched in 1974 in Victoria B.C., and features three private guest cabins, a beautifully redesigned main salon, and traditional wheelhouse. The three forward staterooms each have two spacious single berths (beds) complete with fluffy duvets and wool blankets, a private vanity with sink, mirror, hot and cold running water, a skylight or deck prism, brass reading lamps, drawers, and a hanging locker for storage. A spacious common head and shower are accessible from the main salon. Passing Cloud also features sea kayaks and an inflatable skiff to help us explore the shorelines, forests, bays and inlets of the BC coast. Passing Cloud is a Transport Canada certified passenger vessel and meets the highest standards of safety and construction. She is fully equipped with modern safety and navigation equipment including radar, GPS, VHF radios, EPIRB, and digital chart plotter and satellite telephone.
2020 Expeditions Experience the wildlife, wilderness, and cultures of Canada’s Pacific Coast
Pacific Rim National Park Reserve
5-days navigating more than 300 islands and islets
in an astonishingly rich cultural and wilderness
environment
With exploration of ancient cultures and coastal rainforests
2020 Edition
Discover Encounter Learn
The Nuu-chah-nulth cultural Black bears, grey About the fascinating
heritage of Barkley Sound whales, sea otters, archaeological
and the Broken Group and orca research in this region
Islands
Pacific Rim National Park Vancouver Island’s West Coast Our expeditions to the west coast of Vancouver Island explore and experience the wildlife, wilderness and rich Nuu-chah-nulth cultural heritage of Barkley Sound and the Broken Group Islands, an archipelago of more than 300 islands and islets long considered the jewel of the Pacific Rim National Park.
At a Glance Spring is a spectacular time to discover the many wonders of Pacific Rim National Park Reserve. Aboard the Schooner Passing Cloud and through shore walks, zodiac and kayak excursions, we’ll explore the vast diversity of the Broken Group’s many islands, beaches, shores, old-growth rainforests, rocky intertidal zones, kelp forest communities, estuaries and fjords of this incredible region, while partnering with local Nuu- Chah-Nulth Nations, researchers and historians to learn about its ancient and intact cultural heritage. We’ll arrive to the region earlier in season in hopes to catch a glimpse of the herring spawn phenomenon which attracts a feeding-frenzy of species, including emerging black bears from hibernation, bald eagles and other birds of prey, whales, seals, sea lions, and an incredible array of seabirds. We’ll also hope to catch the tail end of one of the longest migrations of any mammal – the grey whale, that pass through these waters from mid-March to early May. 5-days / 4-nights 2020 departures: April 1, 6, 12, 18 Price per person: $2,800 CAD Departs from / Returns to: Ucluelet What’s Included? All meals, accommodation, transportation, user fees, use of onboard gear and resources, rubber boots. What’s not included? 5% GST, travel and accommodation before and after the expedition, gratuities, any personal expenses incurred due to weather, logistical delays, delayed departures of chartered aircraft, taxis, ferries.
“We continue to be in awe of all Sample Itinerary:
of the experiences you devise for
these trips, from the big seascapes Pacific Rim National Park Reserve
with rainbows, whales, and native
villages, and ancient fish weirs, to life Day Ucluelet Aquarium, Embark the
in small coastal communities. We 1 Passing Cloud
love all of it, the camaraderie, superb
Our expedition to Pacific Rim National Park
food, and sailing at 8.9 knots!” begins with a 10:00 AM tour of the award-winning
Ucluelet Aquarium, where we’ll learn about the
amazing marine life that inhabits the waters of
- Sharon and Hans, Outer Shores’ Travellers Barkley and Clayoquot Sounds. Almost all the
specimens are collected from the nearby waters
and seasonally released back into the ocean.
We’ll meet with the curator to find out more about
the Aquarium’s work in progress. Afterwards
we’ll board the schooner Passing Cloud in time
for lunch, settle into our accommodations, and
set sail for Barkley Sound. As we sail through
Macoah Passage we’ll be on the lookout for
spawning herring and the grey whales, seabirds,
and sea lions that congregate here to feast on
this ecological bonanza. Tonight, we’ll anchor in
a small group of islands just outside the National
Park Reserve where we have a good chance of
spotting coastal black bears. We’ll also set our
prawn and crab traps for a taste of fresh local
seafood.
Day Broken Group Islands, Dodd-
2 Willis-Turtle Lagoon
This morning we’ll drift our inflatable boat into a
small nearby estuary and salmon stream. We’ll
explore the forest and look for the black bears
that come here in the spring to feed on grasses
and shellfish. This is also a great time of year to
watch for migrating waterfowl and shorebirds.
Back aboard the ship, we’ll enjoy lunch as
we travel into the Broken Group Islands Unit
of Pacific Rim. We’ll drop anchor in a natural
lagoon between Dodd, Willis, and Turtle Islands
and take the opportunity to sea kayak, zodiac
tour, and shore walk, exploring the old growth
forest and white-sand beaches found here.
We’ll view and discuss the deep shell middens,
stone fish traps and ancient clam gardens we
encounter here, built by the Tseshaht First Nation
over the thousands of years they’ve inhabited
this region.Day Wouver, Benson, and Dicebox
4 Islands, Great Tidepool
This morning we’ll sail back to the Broken Group
Islands, keeping a close lookout for the humpback
and grey whales, harbour porpoises, and
occasionally orcas that frequent these waters.
We’re also hoping to encounter some of the newest
arrivals to Barkley Sound, the sea otter population
that is currently re-colonizing this region. We’ll
discuss how these “ecosystem engineers” are rapidly
transforming kelp forest and fish communities
throughout the BC coast. We’ll explore a kelp forest
via our inflatable boat and sea kayaks and go
ashore on Wouwer Island to examine ancient stone
fish traps at the “Great Tidepool” before sailing past
an outstanding sea lion haul-out site later in the
day. After lunch we’ll travel to Benson Island to tour
the ancient village site of “C’isaa”, birthplace of the
Tseshaht First Nation, that was occupied for at least
5000 years. Here we will see the large shell middens
that are the result of thousands of years of marine
subsistence at this site. Later this morning we’ll cruise
past the tiny ancient “fortress island” of Dicebox
Island and learn about archaeological research
conducted here.
Day Bamfield Marine Sciences Centre,
3 Deer Group Islands
An early morning beach walk kicks-off Day 3, as we
take advantage of the low tide to explore the world
of diverse creatures like giant green anemones,
lemon nudibranchs, bat stars, giant gumboot chitons,
frilled dog whelks, peanut worms, purple encrusting
sponges and iridescent seaweeds. We follow up our
morning of discovery with a hot breakfast, fresh
coffee, and tea as we prepare to heave anchor and
sail across Imperial Eagle Channel to the historic
fishing community of Bamfield. Here we’ll stroll the
boardwalk and visit the Bamfield Marine Sciences Day Disembark at Ucluelet
Centre. We’ll go ashore for a guided tour of the Kiixin 5
Village and Fortress National Historic Site of Canada,
the only known remaining traditional village site Looking to squeeze every last drop out of this
in Southwestern BC. We’ll discover hose deposits, expedition, we will take a final morning shore walk or
Midden beachesm, and ancient poles telling the zodiac excursion before heaving anchor and heading
story of a once-bustling community of the Huu-ay- back to Ucluelet, all the while keeping our eyes peeled
aht people. In the past, the Huu-ay-aht drew all for more sea otters, whales and seabirds as we
they required from the wilderness and wildlife of this return to port to say our reluctant farewells prior to
exceptionally productive environment. We’ll anchor for disembarkation.
the night in the Deer Group Islands.Spring in
British Columbia’s
Great Bear Rainforest
8-days exploring the outer islands, observing recovering
sea otter populations, and spring bears as they emerge
from hibernation
Islands, Otters, Bears, and Wolves
2020 Edition
Explore Encounter Learn
The islands, beaches, and Wildlife in its most natural How sea otters are
ancient forests of marine and terrestrial transforming the BC Coast
the Great Bear habitatsSpring in British Columbia’s Great Bear Rainforest Islands, Otters, Bears, and Wolves The Great Bear Rainforest is one of the largest intact coastal temperate forests in the world. Extending from northern Vancouver Island to Alaska, and covering more than 64,000km2 (24,000mi2), this area is home to spectacular wildlife including whales and dolphins, bears and wolves, sea lions and sea otters. This 8-day expedition aboard our classic schooner, the Passing Cloud, gives us the chance to explore this beautiful ecosystem and learn how it depends so critically on wild Pacific salmon.
At a Glance Our Spring expeditions through the Great Bear Rainforest are dedicated to exploring, experiencing, and learning about the wildlife, ecosystems, and cultures of this incredibly special corner of the Planet. Spring is a wonderfully exciting time of year to be here, with coastal plants and colourful wildflowers in full bloom, bears grazing in estuaries, and whales returning to nearshore waters. For our first 8-day/7-night itinerary, we start in the Nuxalk First Nation community of Bella Coola and end in the Heiltsuk First Nation community of Bella Bella. The following departures start and end in Bella Bella. Our itinerary includes the Hakai Luxvbalis Conservancy, Hakai Institute Calvert Island Field Station, and a focus on sea otters, kelp forests, bears, wolves, and old-growth rainforests. 8-days / 7-nights 2020 departures: May 6, 14, 22 Price per person: $5,295 CAD Departs from/Return to: Bella Coola, BC (May 6-13) Departs from/Returns to: Bella Bella, B.C. (May 14-21, May 22-29) What’s Included? All meals, accommodation, transportation, First Nation Conservation and Stewardship fees, and use of onboard gear and resources including rubber boots. What’s not included? 5% GST, travel and accommodation before and after the expedition, gratuities, any personal expenses incurred due to weather, logistical delays, delayed departures of chartered aircraft, taxis, ferries.
Sample Itinerary:
“Where to begin with an experience Spring in British Columbia’s
awash with so many remarkable
memories...This trip connects me to
Great Bear Rainforest
myself and to a place that resonates Day
deeply. Thank you, Russ and all!” 1
Our expedition begins in the heart of Canada’s Great
- Frances, Outer Shores’ Traveller Bear Rainforest, the prime habitat for grizzly bears,
black bears, and wolves. As we explore a coastal
estuary system, always on the lookout for these top
predators, our Expedition Specialist will teach us about
the biology, ecology, and conservation of the bears and
wolves of this complex rainforest ecosystem. We’ll learn
how bears, wolves, and other consumers supercharge
ancient rainforests by moving salmon and herring into
these coastal jungles. We spend most of today exploring
forests, rivers, estuaries, and viewing the multitude of
wildlife that we’ll inevitably encounter.
Day
2
We’ll continue our voyage through the glacier-carved
fjords etched into the mainland coast, as we enjoy the
dramatic snow-capped peaks surrounding us. We’ll go
ashore and enjoy the brilliantly coloured wildflowers in
bloom this time of year. We’re always on the lookout for
the coastal grizzlies that come here to graze on grasses,
sedges, rice root, and other plants. This afternoon we’ll
explore a river system and learn about the ancient stone
fish traps that can be found throughout this region. We’ll
have time for kayaking and more shore exploring late
this afternoon at our overnight anchorage.
Day
3
Today we’ll visit the Hakai Institute Calvert Island Field
Station, situated in the Hakai Luxvbalis Conservancy,
the largest marine conservancy on the BC Coast. After
we learn about some of the incredible research being
conducted here, we’ll explore spectacular “West Beach”,
and hike the boardwalk trail through coastal rainforest
and bog up to the lookout for a stunning view of the
area.Day
4
This morning we’ll visit the McNaughton Group, a small
group of islets studded with white-sand beaches and
surrounded by kelp forests, and home to sea otters!
We’ll spend the morning exploring this beautiful place
and learning about how sea otters are transforming
the undersea ecosystems of this region. This afternoon
we’ll go sailing and/or break out the kayaks for more
exploring in this area. Our overnight anchorage is a
short distance north in the McMullin Group Islands.
Day
5
Weather permitting, we’ll sail across Queen’s Sound this
morning to the Goose Group Islands and explore the
gorgeous white-sand beaches of this magical place.
We’ll be on the lookout for humpback whales and other
marine mammals as we cross the sound. Remarkably,
wolves are occasionally sighted on this small group of
outer coast islands.
Day
7
We start our day on dawn patrol before breakfast, for
an inflatable boat excursion into a nearby estuary to
watch and listen as the morning sun spreads across
this ancient place. Later, we’ll see ancient pictographs,
highlighting for us the fact that the indigenous Heiltsuk
people have lived here for more than 13,000 years.
We’ll discuss the Heiltsuk’s deep history and close
connections with all the places and ecosystems we
have visited over the past week. Tonight, we’ll reflect
on all our experiences over the past week here in the
Great Bear Rainforest, and give thanks to those who
have worked so hard to protect it.
Day
6 Day
8
This morning we’re on the lookout for marine wild-
life sightings - such as humpback whales, sea otters, As we travel the short distance to Bella Bella this
elephant seals, and killer whales. We’re on route to morning we hope for any last minute wildlife
Stryker Island where we’ll go on an inflatable boat sightings. Upon arrival, we say farewell to our
excursion and look for the sea otters that are returning shipmates and new friends before disembarking
to this area. We’ll anchor in a scenic protected cove for and heading to the Bella Bella Airport for flights to
the evening and enjoy a beautiful sunset on the outer Vancouver and beyond.
islands.Haida Gwaii
Gwaii Haanas
National Park Reserve, National
Marine Conservation Area Reserve,
& Haida Heritage Site
2020 Edition
9-days exploring the remote island archipelago often described as the
“Canadian Galapagos.”
Discover Encounter Learn
Ecosystems, wildlife, and the Puffins, albatrosses, About the rich cultural
ancient Haida village sites sunfish, jellyfish, orcas heritage of the indigenous
of Gwaii Haanas and humpback whales Haida NationHaida Gwaii Archipelago Islands at the Edge Haida Gwaii (“Islands of the People” in the Haida language) is a remote island archipelago located approximately 100 km off the northwest coast of British Columbia. The “Galapagos of the North” is a world where giant spruce and cedar trees tower over salmon streams, and kelp forests connect the land to the sea. An ecological hotspot, the unparalleled diversity of marine life here includes everything from puffins to albatrosses, sunfish to jellyfish, and killer whales to humpback whales. Gwaii Haanas National Park Reserve, National Marine Conservation Area Reserve, and Haida Heritage Site (or simply “Gwaii Haanas”) protects the ecological and cultural treasures of this globally significant region from seafloor to mountain-top.
At a Glance Our 8-night expedition through Gwaii Haanas National Park Reserve, National Marine Conservation Area Reserve, and Haida Heritage Site is dedicated to exploring the ecosystems and wildlife of this remote island archipelago and learning about the cultural heritage of the Indigenous Haida people who have lived here for more than 14,000 years. Throughout this expedition we’ll explore ancient rainforests, white-sand beaches, rocky shores, coastal estuaries, and encounter stunning terrestrial and marine wildlife. Gwaii Haanas protects this globally unique ecosystem and preserves the cultural legacy of the Haida Nation. 9-days / 8-nights 2020 Departures: June 9, 17, 26, July 5, 13, 21, 29, August 6 Price per person: $6,495 CAD Departs from/Returns to: Sandspit, BC What’s Included? First night accommodation in Skidegate, Traditional Haida Feast, Haida Gwaii Museum private tour, all meals, accommodation, transportation, National Parks fees, guiding and interpretive services, and use of all onboard gear and resources. What’s not included? 5% GST, travel and accommodation before and after the expedition getting to/from Haida Gwaii, crew gratuities, any personal expenses incurred due to weather, logistical delays, delayed departures of chartered aircraft, taxis, ferries.
Sample Itinerary:
Gwaii Haanas National
“Visiting Gwaii Haanas with Park Reserve
the Passing Cloud crew added
significantly to our appreciation A distinct feature of all our expeditions is that we
for not only the beauty and wildlife have no fixed itineraries. Instead, our days are
of this remote spot, but also for structured by the weather, tides, and wildlife we
Haida culture. The Captain is encounter, the interests of our guests, and expertise
more than a captain, and the of our crew.
same can be said for the first
mate, chef and naturalist who
were aboard. Not only did we
come away from this experience
with a sense of awe, but with very
satisfied bellies that were fed
with healthy, sustainable, locally
sourced and wonderfully-prepared
foods. We couldn’t have asked for
a better experience.”
– Ellen, Outer Shores’ Traveller
Day
1
Our Gwaii Haanas expedition officially begins this
morning when you arrive at the Sandpit Regional
Airport. You’ll be transported from Sandspit via shuttle
and ferry to Skidegate, where you’ll check into your
overnight accommodation(included). We’ll meet for the
first time as a group for lunch at the Haida Heritage
Centre. After lunch we’ll enjoy a private tour of the
Haida Gwaii Museum and immersive introduction
to the cultural history of Haida Gwaii. Tonight, we’ll
be treated to a traditional Haida feast at Keenawai’s
Kitchen in Skidegate.
Day
2
After breakfast this morning we’ll travel via a short ferry
rise to Moresby Island and by land (`1 hour by logging
road) by land to reach the schooner, Passing Cloud.
After meeting the crew, settling into accommodations,
and our safety briefing, we set sail for the ancient
village of K’uuna Llnagaay (Skedans). Haida Watchmen
will guide us through the cultural history of this ancient
Haida village and introduce us to mortuary and
memorial poles. After lunch, we’ll continue our voyage
south to the village of T’aanuu Llnagaay (Tanu) and
tour the remaining house depressions from this once-
bustling community that was a gathering place for
many villages. We’ll enjoy a late afternoon sail before
anchoring in a secluded wilderness inlet with time to
reflect on our day and enjoy our first dinner aboard.Day Day
3 6
Today, weather permitting we hope to sail a few miles This morning we’ll make sure we’re up early to
from shore as we travel southward towards Kunghit Island, catch low tide and explore the incredible marine
traditional territory of the Kunghit Haida. This offshore biodiversity of world-famous Burnaby Narrows. Using
area known as the pelagic zone is the perfect place to our kayaks and inflatable skiff, we follow one of our
search for marine wildlife such as pelagic seabirds, sharks, crew members in snorkeling gear to check-out giant
ocean sunfish, Pacific white-sided dolphins, and humpback predatory sunflower stars, multi-coloured bat stars,
and fin whales. We’ll seek out our favourite spots on deck massive moon snails, decorator crabs, nudibranchs
with a book or a camera and enjoy the passing breeze. (sea slugs), and more. After spending the afternoon
This afternoon we’ll explore the beaches, tide pools, and sailing in Juan Perez Sound we’ll enjoy a soak in the hot
specular vistas of the Gordon Islands and learn about kelp springs and visit with the Haida Watchman at Gandll
forest ecosystems and the vast food web that depends on K’in Gwaay.yaay.
them. This is also a wonderful place to explore by sea kayak
or zodiac. Day
7
This morning we’ll explore a moss-laden coastal
rainforest dominated by massive Western Red cedar
and Sitka spruce trees. In a small nearby estuary
and river system we’ll also examine and discuss the
remnants of wooden-stake fish weirs dating from
more than a thousand years ago. We’ll contemplate
the interconnectedness of salmon, bears, coastal
rainforests, and people. After lunch today, we’ll hike
a short distance to an entirely different ecosystem,
a coastal bog with bonsai-like pine and cedar trees
and carnivorous plants.
Day
4
Today we visit the ancient village of SGang Gwaay. This
village was inhabited until approximately 1880, and in
1981 was designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site Day
in recognition of its globally significant cultural heritage.
Here we’ll see the remains of massive long houses, and a
8
stunning grove of standing mortuary and memorial poles. This morning we’re up early to explore the shoreline
We’ll enjoy a guided tour of the village by Haida Watchman at low tide in search of ancient stone fish traps and
and immerse ourselves in traditional Haida social systems intertidal creatures. After lunch, we’ll continue on
and way of life. This afternoon we’ll have time to reflect on to Hlk’yah GaawGa (Windy Bay), where we’ll walk
our SGaang Gwaay visit as we enjoy some quiet time beach through the old-growth forest of massive cedar and
walking, sea kayaking, or sitting among ancient spruce or spruce trees that ultimately led to the creation of Gwaii
cedar trees. Haanas. The Haida Watchman here will share with us
Day the story of Gwaii Haanas as told by the Legacy Pole.
We cap off our day by enjoying a late afternoon sail
5 towards Cumshewa Inlet before dinner. Make sure
to keep a sharp lookout for the mammal-eating killer
Today we hope to visit Cape St. James at the whales that frequent this area. This evening, our last
southernmost extremity of the Haida Gwaii Archipelago. night aboard Passing Cloud, we’ll share our highlights
With ocean currents meeting from the east and west, this and reflect on all that we’ve experienced and learned
area is alive with marine life, including tufted and horned over the past week.
puffins, and other sea birds. This region is also home to
one of our favorite white-sand beaches on the BC coast, Day
the perfect place for an afternoon of exploring, relaxing,
and strolling barefoot along the shore. Later, we’ll sail
9
past a sea lion rookery and learn about the ecology After breakfast this morning, we’ll say farewell to the
and conservation of these formidable creatures. This Passing Cloud and crew before boarding our shuttle
afternoon we begin the northward leg of our journey. back to Sandspit from Moresby Camp where our
expedition officially comes to an end.British Columbia’s Great Bear Rainforest - Fall 2020 Edition 9-days exploring the largest intact coastal temperate rainforest in the world. Discover Encounter Learn Abundant wildlife, and ancient Iconic bears, whales, and How wild Pacific salmon forest ecosystems coastal wolves define the ecosystem
British Columbia’s Great Bear Rainforest Salmon, Bears, Whales, and Wolves Canada’s Great Bear Rainforest is the largest remaining intact coastal temperate forest in the world. Extending from Northern Vancouver Island to Alaska and covering more than 64,000 km2 (24,000 mi2), this globally unique region is home to spectacular wildlife including grizzly bears, coastal wolves, whales, dolphins, seals, sea lions, sea otters, and the iconic white Spirit bear. Our 9-day expedition aboard the classic schooner, Passing Cloud, is dedicated to exploring, experiencing, and learning about the wildlife, ecosystems, old-growth forests, and ancient indigenous cultures of the Great Bear.
At a Glance
Our 9-day expedition through the Great Bear
Rainforest departs from and returns to the
Heiltsuk First Nations community of Bella Bella.
Our journey will cover approximately 300 nautical
miles (550 kilometers) as we circumnavigate
Princess Royal Island, home to the rare white
Kermode, or Spirit bear. As we travel through the
traditional territories of the Heiltsuk, Kitasoo/
Xai’xais, and Gitga’at First Nations, we’ll explore
glacier-scoured inlets and fjords, coastal
estuaries, ancient rainforests, and remote outer
coast island ecosystems.
9-days / 8-nights
2020 departures: Aug 18, 26, Sep 4, 13, 22, *Oct 1
*Photography Tour
Price per person: $6,495 CAD
Departs from / Returns to: Bella Bella. B.C.
What’s Included?
All meals, accommodation, transportation, guided and
interpretive excursions, First Nation Conservation and
Stewardship fees, and use of all onboard gear and
resources.
What’s not included?
5% GST, travel and accommodation before and after
the expedition, crew gratuities, any personal expenses
incurred due to weather, logistical delays, delayed
departures of chartered aircraft, taxis, ferries.Sample Itinerary:
British Columbia’s
Great Bear Rainforest - Fall
A distinct and exciting feature of all our expeditions is
that we have no fixed itineraries. Instead, our days are
structured by the weather, tides, and wildlife we encounter,
and the interests of our guests and xpertise of our crew. The
following sample itinerary is simply intended to describe
the places, activities, wildlife, and adventures that are
typical of our Great Bear Rainforest expeditions.
Day
1
Our expedition begins in the Heiltsuk First Nation
community of Bella Bella, a short flight from Vancouver
International Airport. Upon boarding the schooner
Passing Cloud, meeting the crew, and settling into
accommodations, we’ll set sail and begin our journey
north into the heart of the largest intact coastal
temperate rainforest on earth. As we enter the Seaforth
Channel we’ll be on the lookout for our first wildlife
sightings - humpback whales, sea otters, elephant
seals, and even killer whales. Later in the afternoon,
we’ll anchor in a small coastal estuary and go ashore
for our first glimpse of temperate rainforest ecosystems
and wild Pacific salmon returning to spawn.
Day
2
This morning our northward journey continues and
takes us into Fjordland Recreation Area, a spectacular
region of dramatic glacier-carved inlets and cascading
waterfalls. We’ll anchor in Kynoch Inlet and spend the
afternoon exploring Culpepper Lagoon aboard our
inflatable skiff in search of bears, wolves, and other
wildlife. This evening our Expedition Specialist will tell
us about how the Great Bear Rainforest came to be
protected and introduce us to the remarkable life cycles
“It’s virtually impossible to find the and ecological importance of Pacific salmon.
adequate words to express my Day
gratitude and wonder for such a 3
magical week. The fact that such
We’re up early for an excursion into Kynoch Inlet
natural beauty, such isolated estuary. The abundant populations of salmon here
wilderness, still exists gives me make it an excellent place to view bears, wolves, eagles,
and other predators and scavengers that have come
hope for our world. “ here to feast on salmon. After breakfast we’ll travel
west and north, always on the lookout for marine
wildlife, particularly the humpback whales that are
- Megan , Outer Shores Traveller
returning to this region in great numbers. We’ll travel
through Princess Royal Channel en route to Khutze Inlet,
renowned for its waterfalls, snow-capped mountain
peaks, and wildlife. We’ll use our inflatable boat to
explore this expansive coastal estuary ecosystem which
provides excellent habitat for spawning salmon, black
bears, grizzly bears, wolves, and waterfowl.Day Day
4 7
Khutze Inlet supports excellent habitat for grizzly bears, so This morning we’ll visit a beautiful salmon-bearing
we’ll spend a large part of today viewing, photographing, river and spend time exploring the ecological and
and learning about these iconic apex consumers. Most of cultural connections between salmon, bears, coastal
our viewing will be conducted from our inflatable skiff, or rainforests, and indigenous cultures. This is an
we may find a high spot on shore to sit, wait, and watch excellent morning for bear-viewing, sea kayaking,
from a respectful distance. And don’t worry, your crew are and photographing ancient forests. This afternoon
highly experienced and certified bear-viewing guides! Back we hope to show you examples of ancient stone fish
aboard the Passing Cloud we’ll have lunch underway as traps that were built millennia ago by the indigenous
we continue our journey north. We’re on high alert today First Nations of this region to support their once large
after receiving a report of humpback whales engaged in populations and 14,000-year-old cultures.
“bubble-net” feeding in the area. After we make a short
visit at the historic abandoned community of Butedale we
anchor for the night in near-by Klekane Inlet.
Day
5
We’re underway early this morning as we transit MacKay
Reach and round the northern end of Princess Royal Island.
The breeze is just right so we set all sail and savior the
peacefulness of travelling under sail-power alone. As we Day
enter Whale Channel, we begin to encounter the large 8
number of humpback whales, and increasingly, fin whales This morning we’ll round the southern end of Princess
that congregate in this region during the late summer and Royal Island via Myers Narrows and visit the Kitasoo/
fall. We’ll spend time viewing and photographing these Xai’xais First Nation community of Klemtu. We’ll
exciting marine mammals, and our Expedition Specialist will be welcomed to this remote village with a guided
help us to interpret the behaviours we are witnessing and tour of their traditional Big House, and we’ll learn
use our underwater hydrophone to listen to their songs and about the deep history of this indigenous nation
feeding calls. Our overnight anchorage is in Cameron Cove, and their present-day initiatives to protect their
on Princess Royal Island. culture, community, environment, and economy. This
afternoon as our journey takes us south and east
towards Bella Bella, we’ll enjoy sailing and wildlife
viewing as we weave our way through the inlets,
passages, and channels that characterize this region.
Our final night about the Passing Cloud is spent
sharing our highlights and reflections of our journey
together.
Day
6
Small coastal streams, spawning salmon, and old-growth
rainforests provide ideal conditions for encountering
wolves, black bears, and the rare Spirit bear. We’ll offer
an early morning excursion here during which we expect
to simply sit at the edge of the rainforest listening and
watching as the sounds and sights of morning unfold
before us. This morning after breakfast we hope to
visit a small nearby field station where researchers are
studying the incredible abundance of whales in this region. Day
Afterwards, we’re now southbound on the west side of
Princess Royal Island. Weather and time permitting, we’ll
9
visit the outer coast island ecosystems this afternoon, stroll As we travel the remaining short distance to Bella
along a white-sand beach, and learn about kelp forests Bella this morning we hope for last minute wildlife
and sea otters. Or, we might spend the afternoon enjoying sightings and enjoy the vast pristine landscapes
the excellent sailing conditions often found there. Late and seascapes of the Great Bear Rainforest. Upon
afternoon we’ll make our way to an overnight anchorage our arrival, we say our farewells to the Great Bear
in remote protected inlet on the west side of Princess Royal Rainforest before disembarking and making our way
Island. to the Bella Bella airport.Coastal Photography Tour
in Canada’s Great Bear Rainforest
9-days exploring glacier-carved fjords and biologically-
rich estuaries. The perfect backdrop to hone your nature
and wildlife photography skills.
2020 Edition
Explore Photograph Learn
The largest intact Bears, whales, dolphins, Strategies for photographing
coastal temperate porpoises, and ancient coastal wildlife and
rainforest on Earth rainforests environmentsPhotography Tour
2020
Canada’s Great Bear Rainforest
During our 2020 Photo Tour in the Great Bear
Rainforest, living and travelling aboard the
schooner Passing Cloud, and isolated from
all the distractions of shore-bound life, you’ll
have the opportunity to focus on taking your
photography to the next level. Accommodations,
delicious food, and transportation to stunning
photo destinations are all included, leaving you
free to concentrate on capturing your vision of
this pristine coastal wilderness.
2At a Glance
Our 9-day/8-night photography tour through
Canada’s Great Bear Rainforest is perfect
for photographers, novice and accomplished
alike, wishing to combine photography with
experiencing the wildlife and ecosystems of
this incredible region. This unique wilderness
photography tour will be led by coastal
photography specialist, Dr. James Thompson,
and focuses on the megafauna of this diverse
ecosystem. This expedition circumnavigates
Princess Royal Island, starting and ending in the
Heiltsuk First Nation community of Bella Bella,
British Columbia.
9-days / 8-nights
2020 departures: October 1-9
Price per person: $6,495 CAD
Departs from/Returns to: Bella Bella, BC
What’s Included?
All meals, accommodation, transportation, Conservation
and Stewardship fees, use of onboard gear and resources
including rubber boots, instruction and guidance by onboard
photography expert, Dr. James Thompson.
What’s not included?
5% GST, travel and accommodation before and after the
expedition, crew gratuities, any personal expenses incurred due
to weather, logistical delays, delayed departures of chartered
aircraft, taxis, ferries.
3Sample Itinerary:
Coastal Photography Tour
2020
“Our expectations were superbly Our floating classroom for this photo tour is the
schooner Passing Cloud, and our playground is
exceeded in every respect...Once Canada’s Great Bear Rainforest. This all-inclusive
again your excellent crew have photography adventure overlays discussion-based
workshops, photo reviews, and one-on-one guidance
contributed so much to our upon the old-growth rainforests, estuaries, and bear
enjoyment. Your enthusiasm, viewing stands operated by local First Nations.
knowledge and commitment
is unsurpassed. Altogether the Day
1 Bella Bella, Wildlife Photography 101
experience warms the soul. Thank
you for providing leadership and Our adventure begins in the Heiltsuk First Nation
community of Bella Bella, a short flight from Vancouver
guidance to make this and every International Airport. Upon boarding our 70’ classic
Passing Cloud experience so wooden schooner Passing Cloud and settling into
special.” accommodations, we set sail and begin our journey
north into the heart of Canada’s Great Bear Rainforest.
As we slice through the waters of the Seaforth Channel
- Jonathan, Outer Shores’ Traveler we’ll be on the lookout for our first wildlife sightings
- humpback whales, sea otters, elephant seals, and
killer whales. Later in the afternoon we’ll set down
our anchor in a small coastal estuary and go ashore
for our first taste of the coastal temperate rainforest
ecosystem. To prepare for tomorrow’s adventure,
James will give us his “Wildlife Photography 101” talk
after dinner.
Day Estuary Wildlife Photo Session
2
Today gets started with an early morning visit to one
of the rainforest estuaries, an enclosed body of water
with multiple rivers and streams running into it, to
observe and photograph wildlife. After exploring this
area for the morning, we continue our travels north,
potentially spotting humpback whales, dolphins, and
porpoises. In the afternoon we visit our first major river
system, where we find a comfortable spot to sit and
wait to observe grizzly bears fishing for salmon.
4Day Culpepper Lagoon, Khutze Inlet Day Kayaking, Whales, and Hartley Bay
3 6
After optional morning sea kayaking (or quiet cup of After optional morning sea kayaking (or a quiet cup
coffee on deck), we depart for Wright Sound and the of coffee on deck), we depart for Wright Sound and
Gitga’at First Nation community of Hartley Bay. On the Gitga’at First Nation community of Hartley Bay.
route, we’re hopeful that we’ll encounter the large On route, we’re hopeful that we’ll encounter the large
groups of humpback whales that are increasingly found groups of humpback whales that are increasingly
congregating in this area. In Hartley Bay we’ll enjoy a found congregating in this area. In Hartley Bay we’ll
walking tour of this beautiful boardwalk community enjoy a walking tour of this beautiful boardwalk
and learn about the Gitga’at Nation. We’ll spend this community and learn about the Gitga’at Nation.
afternoon sailing and photographing whales in Squally We’ll spend this afternoon sailing and photographing
Channel and Taylor Bight, hopefully including fin whales, whales in Squally Channel and Taylor Bight, hopefully
the second largest mammals on the Planet! We’ll have including fin whales, the second largest mammals on
our first image review session tonight. the Planet!
Day Dawn Patrol and Hot Springs
4
We continue our exploration of Khutze Inlet with an
early morning photography and wildlife expedition
into the estuary via our inflatable boat. Next, we head
back aboard our ship and travel north in search of
the iconic spirit (or Kermode) bear, which are actually
black bears with a rare gene that produces completely
white fur. After we anchor in Bishop Bay Marine Park
for the evening, we head ashore to enjoy a soak in one
of the natural hot springs in the area and reflect on our Day Ancient Rainforests, Wolves, and
photographic processes of the day.
7 Cetacea Lab
This morning we hope to catch a glimpse of the
secretive coastal wolves that inhabit the Great Bear
Rainforest (but certainly no promises!). We plan to
visit a small coastal stream in this region, surrounded
by ancient spruce and cedar trees, which provide
ideal habitats for wolves and bears. We’ll visit a
small research station (Cetacea Lab), where we’ll
learn about ongoing whale research in this region,
including their whale photo-identification program.
This afternoon we’ll sail south through Whale Channel
on the look out for…you guessed it!
Day Kitasoo/Xaixais Territory, Klemtu Big
8 House
This morning we pass through Myers Narrows en
route to the Kitasoo/Xaixais First Nation community
of Klemtu. We are welcomed to this remote coastal
community with a guided tour of their traditional
Big House. We’ll learn about the deep history of this
indigenous nation and their present-day initiatives to
Day Landscape and Wildlife Photography protect their culture, community, and economy. In the
5 afternoon we sail south through Finlayson Channel
and Milbanke Sound, getting to experience the outer
This morning we’ll follow along a coastal stream in coast before anchoring overnight in the vicinity of
the Gitga’at First Nation territory, where we’ll have an Seaforth Channel, near Bella Bella
excellent chance of observing spirit bears and black
Day
bears fishing for salmon. We spend the majority of the
9 Disembark in Bella Bella
day quietly observing and photographing the salmon,
bears, and other wildlife from the edge of the stream. As we travel the short distance to Bella Bella this
This is a great place to break out our tripods and get morning we hope for last minute wildlife sightings,
some amazing wildlife and landscape images. Later this and enjoy the pristine landscapes and seascapes of
afternoon, we travel a short distance to our overnight the Great Bear Rainforest. Once we arrive, we say
anchorage. Tonight we’ll have an image review session our farewells to the Great Bear Rainforest before
and discuss our techniques. disembarking and heading to the Bella Bella airport.
5FAQ: Coastal Photography
Tour 2020
Who should take this tour?
Anyone with an interest in improving their technical and artistic
photographic skills in a stunning coastal wilderness setting.
What is the nature of this tour? What kind of photo tour is it?
This tour has three main components: (1) living and travelling
aboard a beautiful wooden schooner, participants are completely
immersed in a pristine coastal wilderness environment, providing
unlimited photographic opportunities; (2) all logistics are
completely taken care of for you, including accommodation,
transportation, and wonderful chef-prepared meals…it’s easy!
And (3) our instructor and photography expert focuses on helping
you build your photographic toolbox by focusing on a range of
photographic challenges/opportunities including marine wildlife,
coastal rainforests, the intertidal zone, coastal composition, and
more. Frequent shooting sessions, discussion-based workshops,
one-on-one help, and group image reviews are hallmarks of this
tour. Ultimately, this is your holiday and we want it to be fun and
informative for you.
What will I get to photograph?
We endeavour to expose participants to all the major features
of our wild west coast: the open ocean, the fascinating intertidal
zone, unspoiled soaring coastal old growth rainforests, and a wide
array of wildlife including bears, eagles, whales, sea lions, seals
and a myriad of other birdlife all set against the stunning backdrop
of the Great Bear Rainforest. We occasionally also run into orca,
and porpoises.
How physically fit should I be?
You should be able to walk short distances over somewhat uneven
terrain carrying your camera gear.
What is the Instructor to Participant Ratio? How many crew
will be on board?
There will be a maximum of 6 participants on the tour, and one
instructor. Our ship’s crew will consist of captain (also a PhD
in marine biology), onboard photography expert, Dr. James
Thompson, mate/deckhand, and chef.
What camera gear should I bring?
Short answer? Everything! The wider the range of focal lengths
available to you, the more photographic choices you have. Another
essential piece of equipment is a tripod sturdy enough to bear the
weight of your camera plus largest lens. Other useful items include
a polarizing filter, spare batteries, plenty of storage media, and a
flash or reflector.
I am a single traveler. Can I have a cabin to myself or do I
have to share with someone else?
We do encourage spouses or close friends to join this tour together
and share a cabin. If you don’t mind sharing, we can add you
to pour waitlist to pair you up with another single traveller of
the same gender. However, if you would prefer a private cabin,
we typically can accommodate single travellers in a cabin to
themselves at 2x our regular rate.
6FAQ: Coastal Photography
Tour 2020 (Continued)
How do I get there?
The tour departs aboard the schooner Passing Cloud from the
remote First Nations village of Bella Bella,BC, in the central regions
of Canada’s Great Bear Rainforest. Bella Bella Regional Airport hosts
daily flights from Vancouver, and sometimes connects in Comox and
Campbell River. Pacific Coastal Airlines typically has a morning and
afternoon arrival (approximately 2 hours from the Vancouver Airport).
Visit Pacific Coastal for further details (pacificcoastal.ca)
What will the weather be like?
Spending a week on the west coast in September and October
although you will likely encounter a little bit of everything, expect rain
and cooler temperatures in the rainforest at this time of year. Sun,
wind, and rain are often encountered even within a single day as
weather fronts from the open Pacific Ocean pass by. You can expect
daytime temperatures to be between 5 to 15 degrees Celsius.
What clothing should I bring?
You will be provided with a detailed packing list well in advance of the
tour; however, you’ll need to be prepared for a wide range of weather
conditions.
How should I protect my camera gear?
While rain can easily be wiped off, and many higher-end cameras are
well weather sealed, salty sea spray can be very corrosive to sensitive
electronics. A simple shower cap will keep the worst of the weather at
bay, but you may want to consider purchasing more sophisticated and
robust weather protection. See James Thompson’s Outer Shores Blog
post “It IS a rainforest after all” for more details (www.outershores.
ca/2013/05/it-is-a-rainforest-after-all/).
Will I be able to charge my camera batteries and laptop?
Yes, the ship has several AC power outlets with the standard North
American type plug sockets.
How much on board storage is available?
There are several large drawers and a small hanging locker in each
stateroom, perfect for all your clothing, jackets and some gear.
Should I bring my laptop computer?
Yes! Although not mandatory, we will be critiquing our work during
the trip and providing on-the-fly post-processing tips. There will be
downtime each day during which you can work on your images.
How do I book this tour?
To reserve your berth on this tour we request that you provide a
$1000 CAD deposit that is fully refundable until 120 days prior to your
departure date. At this time your balance becomes due in full, and
payments becomes non-refundable. If you have to cancel inside of 120
days, you can transfer your payment to one of our other expeditions in
the same or following year. We recommend you purchase independant
travel insurance in the off-chance case you need to cancel last minute.
We look forward to welcoming you aboard!
7Northern Vancouver Island’s
Johnstone Strait &
Blackfish Sound
5 days sailing with the spectacular marine mammal
populations of Northern Vancouver Island
2020 Edition
Discover Encounter Learn
The incredibly rich Orcas, humpback About the fascinating
ecosystem of this wildlife whales, dolphins, behaviours and
hotspot porpoises, seals and sea communication of killer
lions whalesJohnstone Strait
& Blackfish Sound
Whales By Sails
Johnstone Strait and Blackfish Sound are world-famous for
the killer whale (orca) and humpback whale populations
that inhabit these waters. Each year, large numbers whales,
dolphins, seals, sea lions, and other marine wildlife congregate
in this region to feast upon abundant populations salmon and
herring. Fall is a beautiful and peaceful time of year to explore
and enjoy this incredibly special place.
2At a Glance
This 5-day sailing expedition aboard our classic
schooner Passing Cloud allows us to observe,
photograph and learn about killer whales,
humpback whales, and many other marine
mammals, as well as experience the marine
wilderness of Northern Vancouver Island. Traveling
under sail at every opportunity, this expedition
connects us to the remarkable marine wildlife of
this region and the ecosystems that support them.
5-days / 4-nights
2020 Departure Dates: October 14-19
Price Per Person: $2,800 CAD
Departs from / Returns to: Port NcNeill
What’s Included?
All meals, accommodation, transportation, user fees,
use of onboard gear and resources, and rubber boots.
What’s not included?
5% GST, travel and accommodation before and after
the expedition, gratuities, any personal expenses
incurred due to weather, logistical delays, delayed
departures of chartered aircraft, taxis, ferries.
3Sample Itinerary:
British Columbia’s
Johnstone Strait
“Thrilling experience, we enjoyed and Blackfish Sound
every minute, especially the
wonderful immersion in the Outer Day
Shores World. Life is all about 1
experience & learning and we go
Our expedition departs from the northern Vancouver
away with much to think about.” Island community of Port McNeill, where we board
the schooner Passing Cloud. After meeting the crew,
– Hans Van De Sande and Sharon Sullivan settling into our accommodations, and receiving a
safety briefing, we set sail for Johnstone Strait. As we
cruise along the south shore of Hanson Island we’re on
the look out for the killer whales and other whales that
frequent this region. By mid October we are nearing the
end of fish-eating killer whale season but our chances
of seeing them are still good, and the mammal-eating
killer whales can be seen anytime. After our first day of
sailing and marine wildlife viewing, we’ll anchor in a
protected cove for the evening. Tonight our Expedition
Specialist will give us an introduction to the biology,
ecology, and conservation of killer whales on the BC
coast.
Day
2
This morning we are in the vicinity of the Robson Bight
Killer Whale Ecological Reserve, a unique protected
area where killer whales come to socialize and use
the “rubbing beaches” found within the reserve.
Throughout our voyage we hope to encounter
killer whales engaged in such diverse behaviours as
feeding, resting, socializing, travelling, breaching, spy
hopping, and tail slapping. We’ll use our underwater
hydrophone to listen to the vocalizations that killer
whales use to communicate and locate prey. This
afternoon we’ll go on a beautiful forest walk up to
“Eagle Eye”, an observation platform where BC Park
wardens monitor the movements of killer whales in
and out of the reserve, and makes sure that vessels
do not enter this important sanctuary.Day
3
After breakfast we’ll travel through Blackney Passage,
a known hotspot for whales, dolphins, and seabirds
due to its active tidal currents. We’ll spend some time
here to view any wildlife in the area. Afterwards we’ll
enter Blackfish Sound (“blackfish” being another name
for killer whales) and scan the area for whale spouts
and dorsal fins. Blackfish Sound has recently become
an area where large numbers of humpback whale
congregate and actively feed on the abundant forage
fishes found here. We’ll learn about the spectacular
recovery of humpback whales on the BC coast, and
observe their exciting feeding behaviours. We’ll spend
the rest of the day sailing and exploring this highly
productive area and viewing the whales and other
marine wildlife that we will inevitably encounter.
Late in the day we’ll slip through scenic White Beach
Passage and into our overnight anchorage at Mound
Island.
Day
5
As we travel the short distance back to Port
McNeill this morning we’re on the lookout for
our last wildlife sightings – perhaps a lone minke
whale, or a pod of Pacific white-sided dolphins!
Once arriving back in Port McNeill, we disembark
and say farewell to our new friends and this
spectacular region.
Day
4
This morning we’ll go ashore to tour and discuss the
massive shell midden and “clam garden” located here,
both testament to thousands of years of occupation
by the indigenous ‘Namgis First Nation of this region
and their close connection with marine resources.
After lunch we’ll cruise back into Blackfish Sound by
way of Knight Inlet to spend the afternoon exploring
the Plumper Islands and Weyton Passage, sailing, and
wildlife viewing. Late in the day we’ll anchor on Hanson
Island and go ashore to explore the low tide. This is
also a great place to try out sea kayaking if you haven’t
already done so. Over dessert tonight we’ll reflect on all
that we have seen and learned over the past 4 days.You can also read
