One of the most exciting marine mammals to observe, watch as orcas
gorge for salmon, spy-hop, and breach -- leaping clear of the water.
From whale researchers and the onboard naturalist, participants learn
about the behavior of these fascinating creatures, listen on the ship's
underwater microphone, and learn to identify individual animals.
The exciting
"Orcas & Grizzly Bears" trip combines majestic
killer whales with the rare opportunity to see the powerful grizzly
bear. Voyage up scenic Knight Inlet to watch grizzly bears feed on
spawning salmon in a mountain river. From the safety of raised viewing
platforms, local bear guides we inform and educate you.
In the
"Orcas & Totems" trip, you will discover a wealth
of wildlife and native cultural history. Marine mammals abound --
Dall's porpoise, Pacific white-sided dolphins, gray whales, harbor
seals, and river otters. Look for a wide variety of birds from the
majestic bald eagles to tiny phalaropes. With permission from the
Kwakwaka'wakw, you will visit the abandoned village of Mamelelekala
to see the ancient dwellings and totem poles.
The "Queen Charlotte Islands" trip tours one of the
richest biological and cultural areas in North America. This remote
archipelago provides unparalleled wilderness cruising and exploring.
The
Queen Charlotte Islands, named Gwaii Haanas by the Haida, translates
as "place of wonder". This is an outstanding wilderness
area, preserving large stands of 'old growth' rainforest, natural
hot springs, and nesting sites for thousands of birds -- 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 the federal Parks Service. The rich native
heritage and history is a major focus of the trip. You will visit
the famous, old Haida village of Ninstints (Skung Gwaii), now a United
Nations World Heritage Site. 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. We have the unique opportunity to meet Haida elders
during the trip and learn about modern Haida life.
The "Canadian
Gulf Islands" trip provides a lovely variety of marine parks,
which now form the new Gulf Islands National Park. There may be an
encounter with a pod of Orcas, and always enjoy Dall's porpoise beside
the boat. The islands are located on the Pacific flyway, and it's
an excellent time of year for migrating birds. Active participants
will enjoy the frequent excursions ashore to hike, explore tide pools,
and visit picturesque coastal villages -- each with its own fascinating
history.
All
trips described above are enjoyed from either one of the following
ships:
The
Island Roamer:
Island Roamer is a custom 68-foot ketch, launched in 1983. The
boat's design, safety and comfort make her particularly well suited
for these trips. She features 8 private cabins (double occupancy),
3 bathrooms with hot showers, a large comfortable lounge with
an extensive library, and well-equipped galley. On deck, the large
covered seating area provides protection in all types of weather.
Island Roamer is large enough for comfort and privacy, and small
enough to create a good rapport among passengers and crew. A certified
Canadian Coast Guard passenger vessel, Island Roamer has all of
the safety equipment, electronic navigation aids, and features
you would expect from a vessel of her standard. Two large inflatables
are used for excursions ashore, and stable double kayaks are available
for exploring protected bays. |
 |
 |
The
Island Odyssey:
S. V. Island Odyssey is a 68' ketch built by Cooper Yachts in
Port Coquitlam, BC. She is a sister-ship to Island Roamer coming
from the same hull mold and shipyard. Originally named Summertime,
upon completion in 1984, she was described as "a vessel of
such timeless design and stature that every facet speaks eloquently
of the over six years of design and execution that are her heritage".
Just like Island Roamer, Island Odyssey has 8 private staterooms
and three bathrooms. Island Odyssey has exquisite joinery and
teak woodwork to add to the comfort of every adventure. The onboard
facilities of Island Odyssey will enable the same fine gourmet
meals as are found on the Island Roamer. Many guests who have
sailed on the Island Roamer will surely want to experience this
season's wide array of exciting trips aboard the newly purchased
Island Odyssey. |
For
safety, the Ministry of Transport requires exemplary attention to
stability, fire protection and life-saving in order to hold the title
"passenger vessel."
The fresh,
wholesome meals aboard have been called "excellent, gourmet,
abundant", with a widely varied menu.
2006/2007
Schedules & Rates:
QUEEN CHARLOTTE ISLANDS – Gwaii Haanas
(Departs - Sandspit, BC)
May 18-27 (10 days) * May 26-June 4 (10 days) *
June 5-14 (10 days) * June 13-22 (10 days) *
June 22-30 (9 days) July 1-8 (8 days) *
July 8-15 (8 days) July 15-22 (8 days)
July 22-29 (8 days) July 29-August 6 (9 days) *
August 5-13 (9 days) * August 12-20 (9 days) * August 19-27 (9 days) *
* Includes Museum & Haida dinner land tour
Price:
8 Days: $2540
9 Days: $2735
10 Days:$2790
ORCAS & TOTEMS
(Departs - Port Hardy, BC)
August 14-18 (4 days)
August 19-25 (7 days)
August 26-30 (5 days)
August 31-Sept. 6 (7 days)
Price:
5 Days: $1785
7 Days: $2085
ORCAS, TOTEMS & GRIZZLY BEARS
(Departs - Port McNeill, BC)
September 9-15 (7 days)
September 16-22 (7 days)
September 23-29 (7 days)
September 30-Oct. 6 (7 days)
Price:
7 Days $2395
Gulf Islands / San Juan Islands
(Departs - Sidney, BC)
May 9-13 (5 days)
May 14-18 (5 days)
October 9-13 (5 days)
October 14-17 (4 days)
Price:
4 days $915
5 days $1055
All prices in Canadian dollars
Currency conversion
Rates
are per person in Canadian dollars.
Please add 7% GST on all rates.
Deposit: $400 per person
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