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Our Broughton Archipelago / Johnstone Strait tours start in the town of Port McNeill ((map). Our Discovery Islands / Desolation Sound tours start in the town of Campbell River (map). When you sign up for a trip, we’ll send you an information package including an exact meeting location and time - or you can call us for exact details. On the last day of our trip, we’ll return to town in the mid-afternoon.
Great Bear Rainforest:
Most of our customers get to Bella Bella (map) on the daily Pacific Coastal Airlines flight from Vancouver and Port Hardy. Therefore our departure time will coincide with the arrival of the afternoon Pacific Coastal flight (summer flight schedules are not finalized until late spring). Upon arriving in Bella Bella, take a taxi to the "fuel dock." Here the Columbia III will await your arrival. On the last day of our trip we will return to Bella Bella so guests can catch the morning Pacific Coastal flight to Vancouver and Port Hardy. If you choose to travel to Bella Bella by ferry, we will do our best to accommodate meeting you but because the ferry schedule is varied, a good connection is not always possible. Feel free to contact us if you have any questions about getting to Bella Bella. For information on Bella Bella you can also visit here. Our Great Bear Rainforest tours start in the remote town of Bella Bella (air or water access only). Most of our guests travel to Bella Bella (map) on the daily Pacific Coastal Airlines flight from Vancouver and Port Hardy. Therefore Columbia III’s departure time will coincide with the arrival of the afternoon Pacific Coastal flight (summer flight schedules are not finalized until late spring). Upon arriving in Bella Bella, take a taxi to the "fuel dock" where we’ll await your arrival. On the last day of our trip we’ll return to Bella Bella so guests can catch the morning Pacific Coastal flight to Vancouver and Port Hardy. If you choose to travel to Bella Bella by ferry, we will do our best to accommodate meeting you but because the ferry schedule is varied, a good connection is not always possible. Feel free to contact us if you have any questions about getting to Bella Bella. For information on Bella Bella you can also visit here.
For maximum comfort, a layering system of lighter “quick-dry” and warmer fleece clothing works best. Merino wool is excellent as well. Avoid cotton which stays wet for a very long time. Waterproof raingear is essential. When getting in and out of your kayak onshore your feet WILL get wet. We suggest a pair of sturdy water sandals/ shoes. Sports gloves for paddling may add to your comfort and help prevent blisters. Proper protection from the sun is essential so bring sun glasses, a sun hat, sun block and lip screen. Bring a water bottle. Staying hydrated in the outdoors is very important. When aboard the mothership, comfortable casual clothing is nice to change into after paddling.
Consider bringing the items listed on the packing list we provide.
Waterproof bags (drybags) for cameras and spare clothes work well in the kayaks. These are available at outdoor sporting goods stores. Large Ziploc bags work as well! Hard suitcases are difficult to fit into the small storage compartments on the Columbia III so if possible, bring your gear in soft duffel type bags.
A water-proof bag (sea-bag) for cameras, etc. while paddling is an excellent idea. These are available at outdoor sporting goods stores. Large Ziploc bags work as well! Please bring your things in soft, duffel-type bags, not hard suitcases or frame packs - boats are not designed for such shapes which are awkward to stow.
Contact Us
Toll Free:
1-888-833-8887
Phone:
250-202-3229
Fax:
604-677-5692
Email us
By Mail:
P.O. Box 30,
Heriot Bay, BC
Canada V0P 1H0