Boat Tours
2 Hour Nanaimo Harbour Tour
Pickup at Brechin Boat Launch in the Nanaimo Harbour. Experience the sights of Nanaimo’s vibrant marine environment and sea life. Snake Island has become home to bald eagles, various shore birds and to hundreds of harbour seals. On your tour, you can see the seals sunning themselves and frolicking in the waters off lovely Snake Island. On the rocky shores of Gabriola Island are the Malaspina Galleries, where you can observe the sculpted sand stone cliffs that have been transformed over the centuries by the winter storms. The power of ocean currents can be experienced at Dodd Narrows, a narrow channel where the tidal flow can reach speeds of up to 9 knots. Due to the strong tidal flow, this area is known for its varied sea life and as a popular diving location. A favourite relaxation spot for tourists and residents alike is Newcastle Island Provincial Park. The park boasts beautiful sandy beaches, windswept rock formations and is a rich part of Nanaimo’s history. There is camping, hiking and cycling trails, a historic pavilion and snack bar. Drop off is at Brechin Boat Launch at the end of the tour.
As an option, request to be dropped off at Newcastle Island Provincial Park and spend some time on the beach or exploring the shoreline and forest trails of this beautiful park. A ferry is available from Newcastle Island to downtown Nanaimo.
Drop off can also be made at Nanaimo’s famous Dinghy Dock Pub where you can enjoy a meal in the nautical themed floating restaurant. A ferry is available from the restaurant to downtown Nanaimo. Please refer to the Dinghy Dock link above for information on the ferry schedule.
4 Hour Boat Tour Through the Northern Gulf Islands
Pickup at Brechin Boat Launch in the Nanaimo Harbour at 10:00 AM. This trip is a great introduction to the northern Gulf Islands. These islands showcase some of the most scenic areas that can only be seen by boat around Vancouver Island. On your tour, experience the powerful, swirling waters of Dodd Narrows, a narrow channel where the tidal flow can reach speeds of up to 9 knots. Due to the strong tidal flow, this area is known for its varied sea life and as a popular diving spot. Travel through waters harboring a rich and varied history, from the exploits of the infamous cult leader, Brother XII on Valdes Island, to Kuper Island, the site of the largest gunboat battle ever staged around Vancouver Island. Picture in your mind what the early mariners saw as they explored these uncharted waters as you take in their present day breath-taking beauty.
Each trip is as unique as the wildlife that you can see, which can include orca (Killer Whales), stellar sea lions, harbour seals, pacific white sided dolphins, bald eagles and various shore birds. This collection of islands provides endless possibilities for the adventurer. The area covered in this trip ranges from Nanaimo to Thetis Island. Trip routes and destination may vary, depending on the winds and the weather. There will be a number of stops on this tour which will provide you with an opportunity to stretch your legs and explore some of the land based sites as well. During the course of the trip you will have the opportunity to stop for lunch (not included in the tour price) at one of the quaint ocean front restaurants situated on the islands before returning to Nanaimo.
Drop off is at same location where you where picked up at the start of the tour. Other drop off options are as described in the 2 Hour Harbour Tour above.
8 hour boat tour through the Gulf Islands
Pickup at Brechin Boat Launch in the Nanaimo Harbour at 9:00 AM. This tour is an extension of the 4 hour tour and covers the area from Nanaimo to Saltspring Island. It also provides additional opportunities to go ashore and shop on Salt Spring Island as well as a continuation on to some of the other Gulf Islands destinations.
Depending on the winds and the weather the route selection will vary. There will be a number of stops on this tour which will provide you with the opportunity to stretch your legs and see some of the land based sites as well. During the course of the trip you will have the opportunity to stop for lunch (not included in the tour price) at one of the quaint ocean front restaurants situated on the islands before returning to Nanaimo.
Drop off is at Brechin Boat Launch at the end of the tour. Other drop off options are as described in the 2 Hour Harbour Tour above.