Coastal History Cruising Tours

EXPERIENCE BC SETTLERS HISTORY BROUGHT TO LIFE WITH A RENOWNED COASTAL HISTORIAN

TRIP HIGHLIGHTS

Zodiac
Excursions
Epic
Scenery
Settlers History
Interpretation
Nature
Walks
Coastal
Cruising
Cozy
Staterooms

Coastal History Cruising Tours are non-kayaking tours.

Our Coastal History Cruising Tours include daily shore excursions by zodiac, where you can experience firsthand the essence of the BC coast. You will be accompanied by historians/guides who will regale you with stories of the local history, bringing alive the rich history of the BC Coast. Our crew will fuel your explorations with gourmet fare and share a wealth of knowledge about birds, plants, and animals. Most of the places we’ll visit are only accessible by boat, through waterways the Columbia III was built to serve over 65 years ago.

ABOUT JEANETTE TAYLOR

Author/historian Jeanette Taylor shares stories from her five books about Vancouver Island’s inner coast. Her enthusiasm for the daring people and scenery of this rugged coast is infectious. Jeanette worked at the BC Archives and the Museum at Campbell River, and has guided for Mothership Adventures since 2006. She lives on an 1890s homestead on Quadra Island.

Jeanette has worked as a historian for over 20 years in the BC Archives and the Campbell River Museum. She is the author of River City, A History of Campbell River (1999), Tidal Passages, A History of the Discovery Islands (2008), and The Quadra Story, A History of Quadra Island (2009).

“Sometimes, a book of local history is much more than that–it is a labour of love as well. That’s the case with Tidal Passages, a product of three decades of research by Jeanette Taylor…. She gathered everything into a fascinating island-by-island history that is not only trustworthy, it is highly readable to boot. It’s a superb effort, and the reader is left with the sense that Taylor could have filled 1,000 pages with all of the material that she has collected…. It is a valuable addition to any library of B.C. coastal history, and its appeal will not be limited to people with roots on the islands.” – Dave Obee, Times Colonist

TRIP OVERVIEW

We offer TWO different Coastal History Cruising Tours with Jeanette:

Bute Inlet, Desolation Sound and the Discovery Islands

There’s a photogenic scene at every turn as we wind through the tightly packed Discovery Islands archipelago to cruise up Bute Inlet. Home to some of the highest peaks in the province, the drama of Bute Inlet is a highlight with snowy peaks rising 9000 feet above you. We will also have a chance to explore the clustered islands of Desolation Sound Marine Park, aboriginal rock art sites and homesteads, the bird sanctuary on Mitlenatch Island and the Octopus Islands Marine Park. We will go ashore daily for short hikes along forested trails and beaches so you have an opportunity to stretch those sea legs every day in a new area. 

This four-night cruise departs from and returns to Campbell River (see directions/planning).

Broughton Archipelago and Kingcome Inlet

The Columbia III heads north from Campbell River for a five-night cruise to the Broughton Archipelago, famed for its whale populations and rich marine life. On this tour, we will stop at deserted aboriginal villages like Mimquimlees, with its remnants of a traditional ‘Bighouse’ and a totem pole. Guides will show us the reoccupied village of Tasadzis’nukwame, and we will visit charming homesteads of the past and present. The mountains of Kingcome Inlet, the many archaeological sites, and meeting coastal legends like Billy Proctor of Echo Bay make for a memorable experience. 

This cruise departs from Campbell River (directions/planning). Guests will disembark in Port McNeill and a shuttle bus will take you back to Campbell River where our journey began.

Sea Kayaking Map of the Broughton Archipelago

“Thank you for an absolutely superb 6 days meandering amongst the islands of the east coast of Vancouver Island. From day 1 to day 6 we were looked after, guided, fed, landed and captained by the Columbia III’s crew. We would not hesitate to say that it’s been the best 6 days at sea we have ever spent.”

– Phil and Pauline, B.C.

Coastal History Cruising Tours with Mothership Adventures

PLANNING FOR
YOUR TRIP

Be sure to go through this list carefully so that you are prepared for every day of your adventure. 

Print These Instructions

Embarking Details

Our Discovery Islands Coastal History Adventure begins in the town of Campbell River, located about 160 miles north of Victoria on the east side of Vancouver Island. Here the Columbia III will await your arrival.

Important points:

  • Columbia III will be moored at the Discovery Harbour Marina in Campbell River (250) 287-2614.
  • Board the vessel punctually between 4:00 pm and 4:15 pm. 
  • The Columbia III cell phone number is 250-202-4745

Bute Inlet, Desolation Sound & Discovery Island Disembark Details

The Columbia III returns to Campbell River at approximately 12 pm (noon) on the last day of the tour.

Broughton Archipelago & Kingcome Inlet Disembark Details

The Columbia III returns to Port McNeill at approximately 12 pm (noon) on the last day of the tour. A complimentary shuttle bus will return you to Campbell River by about 3pm.

Getting To Campbell River

There are a number of ways of getting to Campbell River. The simplest is to fly directly from Vancouver to Campbell River’s regional airport (YBL). Flying time from Vancouver to Campbell River is approx 45 minutes. Other ways include the combination of either car and ferry or shuttle and ferry. Ferry crossing time from Vancouver to Vancouver Island is approx. 2 hours. Driving time from Nanaimo to Campbell River is 1.5 hours, or from Victoria to Campbell River is 3.5 hours.

Travelling By Air

From Vancouver:

  • Pacific Coastal Airlines runs numerous daily flights to Campbell River 1-800-663-2872 or 604-273-8666 (in Vancouver).
  • Central Mountain Air has daily flights to Campbell River at 1-888-865-8585 or 250-847-5000.
  • Air Canada acts as a booking agent for Pacific Coastal Airlines and Central Mountain Air if an Air Canada ticket has been purchased to a connecting airport (ie. Vancouver) 1-800-247-2262 (in Canada) or 1-800-776-3000 (in USA).

From Seattle:

Travelling By Ferry

From Vancouver:
B.C. Ferries has year round vehicle and passenger service – Routes include: North Vancouver (Horseshoe Bay) to Nanaimo (Departure Bay), South Vancouver (Tsawwassen) to South Nanaimo (Duke Point) and South Vancouver (Tsawwassen) to Swartz Bay (near Victoria) 1-888 223-3779 or outside B.C. 250-386-3431.

From Washington State:

  • M.V. Coho has vehicle and passenger service from Port Angeles WA to downtown Victoria B.C.
  • Victoria Clipper has passenger-only ferry service from downtown Seattle to downtown Victoria B.C. 1-800-888-2535.

Ground Travel Information

In Campbell River:

  • Campbell River Airport Shuttle: 250-914-1010
  • Waivin Flags Taxi 250-287-8294
  • Bee Line Taxi: 250-287-8383

Car Rental Providers:

  • Budget Car Rental: 1-800-299-3199 or 250-923-4283 (in Campbell River)
  • National Car Rental: 1-800-227-7368 or 250-923-1234 (in Campbell River)

Visiting Vancouver Island

Many of our guests like to explore Vancouver Island before or after their adventure on the Columbia III. Please contact Tourism Vancouver Island (250)754- 3500 or www.vancouverisland.travel for ideas and information. Accommodation throughout BC can be arranged through 1-800-435-5622 or HelloBC.com.

Accommodation in Campbell River

For those guests who wish to arrive prior to our departure, or stay later after our trip, many hotels and bed & breakfasts are available in Campbell River. Further information is also available from: Campbell River & District Chamber of Commerce: (250) 287-4636 or www.campbellriverchamber.ca.

Parking

There is a variety of parking available. Please ask for directions at the boat when you arrive.

ALL ABOARD THE
COLUMBIA III

Contacting Columbia III

The Columbia III can be contacted at 250-202-4745.
The Mothership office can be reached at 1-888-833-8887 or 250-202-3229 or 1-250-202-8773.

In the case of an extreme emergency, the boat can be contacted directly by calling the Canadian Coast Guard in Prince Rupert (250) 339-3613. Ask them to send a message to MV Columbia III (quote this number: MMSI# 316-003-614) sailing in the Central Coast area. We are often off the boat so expect a response to take 12 hours. The ship’s phone is not for guest use.

For more contact information, visit our CONTACT page.

Meals, Medical, Allergies, and Other Concerns

We will do our best to accommodate personal dietary restrictions, including vegetarian and vegan. Wine will be served with the evening meal. If you would like an alternative to alcohol, please let us know. Please note: any food allergies or needs must be listed on your medical form well before your departure date to ensure the cook has time to shop accordingly.

Please note any food allergies or needs on the medical form well in advance of your departure date.

Mail us your completed Medical Form ASAP. Your tetanus and COVID 19 vaccinations must be up to date (less than 10 years old for Tetanus) before you leave.

Be sure to bring enough of your required medications as you will be far from any drug stores. We may encounter minor ocean swells so if seasickness is a concern, please bring anti-nausea medication. But rest assured, we travel in very sheltered areas and overnight in calm, protected bays. We do our best to avoid swells and waves!

Liability Waiver

Please read our liability waiver closely. We require a signed waiver for you to be able to join our tour. You can send a copy to us by email or regular post. Your signature must be witnessed but not notarized. A friend, partner or relative can be your witness.

Download Liability Waiver
Coastal History Cruising Tour

Packing for
your trip

Weather, Clothing, and Packing

Our skipper and certified guides will not take you in any weather conditions that are dangerous to you or the group. We will likely encounter some wind and waves (the ocean is not always flat!), but nothing that will compromise your safety.

Apparel Selection

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 rain gear is essential. When getting in and out of your kayak on shore your feet WILL get wet. We suggest a pair of sturdy water sandals/ shoes.  Proper protection from the sun is essential so bring sunglasses, a sun hat, sunblock 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 our outings.

Consider bringing the items listed on the packing list we provide.

We have waterproof bags (dry bags) onboard that you can use for your cameras or other small items in your kayak if you like. 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 things in soft duffle type bags.

NOTE: Although not required, if you’d like to express your appreciation to the guides through a gratuity, such recognition would be enthusiastically received. The industry standard for tipping is approximately 5-10 percent of the trip cost. All tips will be equally distributed among your crew.

Packing List

  • Sun Hat / Warm Hat
  • Fleece Jacket
  • Windbreaker or Shell
  • Waterproof Rain Gear (jacket and pants)
  • T-shirts, Shorts, Swimsuit
  • Warm Layered clothing
  • Shore Shoes (for walking or hiking)
  • Sturdy water sandals/shoes
  • Toiletries
  • Medications, prescription and non prescription
  • Day Pack
  • Sunglasses, Spare pair of Eyeglasses
  • Sun block, Lip Screen
  • Insect Repellent
  • Water Bottle
  • Sports Gloves 
  • Binoculars, Journal, Sketchbook (optional)
  • Waterproof Bag
  • A Good Book

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Can I bring a personal drone for aerial photography?

No. Many First Nations on the coast prohibit the use of drones in their territories and we are bound to this restriction with our protocol agreements with the Nations. Additionally, there are government restrictions on the use of drones around marine and terrestrial wildlife. Sorry!

What do I need to bring on a mothership cruising tour?

Our tours are all inclusive. We supply lifejackets, meals, bedding, shower towels, and wine with the evening meal. When you book, we will provide you with a packing list of the personal items you will need to bring.

Can I charge my camera batteries aboard the Columbia III?

We have both 117 VAC and 12 VDC cigarette-lighter style systems aboard with ample power for charging camera batteries and related equipment.

Do I need to bring my own binoculars?

Although the ship carries several pairs of binoculars, it is always best to bring your own if possible. This will insure that you have the binoculars handy at the critical moments of wildlife viewing.

Is it mandatory to go on all shore outings?

The beauty of the Mothership is that you only do what is comfortable for you. If the weather turns foul and you want a quiet day aboard the Columbia III then snuggle in! This is your holiday. Relax and enjoy yourself.

Do you supply maps of the areas we visit?

Yes. We offer beautiful charts free of charge.

Can Mothership Adventures accommodate my special dietary restrictions while on tour?

Yes, we can usually accommodate most dietary restrictions and food allergies. You will be able to indicate these on our pre-trip medical form.

Is alcohol provided or should we bring our own?

Wine or beer is served with each dinner. If you would like other types of alcohol, please bring your own, providing your consumption is moderate.

What are the sleeping arrangements aboard the Columbia III?

Five private cabins accommodate two guests each. Three staterooms have double beds for couples and two have single bunks for single passengers. Three toilets and two showers are shared between the five staterooms.

Should I be concerned about seasickness?

Seasickness is rarely a problem. The Columbia III travels for the most part in very protected waters which are not exposed to the ocean swells, but if you are prone to seasickness, then please do bring your medication.

Will there be additional costs on the tour that I don’t expect?

No. If there are any costs during the normal itinerary such as museum admission fees or costs for a BC First Nations feast or performance then Mothership Adventures pays for these at no extra charge to you. Any personal purchases you might make at shops or with artisans during the tour would, of course, be your responsibility.

Ask us a question

Suggested Reading & Resource List Annotated by Jeanette Taylor

Some of the books are out-of-print but should be available through libraries. Favourites are marked with asterisks (*); many of these will be on board for the cruise:

The Age of Exploration

*Early Maritime Artists of the Pacific Northwest Coast, 1741-1841, John Frazier Henry; a well-researched and illustrated book with summarized accounts of numerous early voyages.

The Voyage of George Vancouver, 1791-1795, Volume I, George Vancouver, Hakluyt Society; a reprint of Vancouver’s journals edited by W. Kaye Lamb of the BC Archives.

The Voyage of Sutil and Mexicana 1792, The last Spanish exploration of the Northwest Coast of America, translated by John Kendrick; the original Spanish account with illustrations and an index to Spanish place names.

General Histories

*Tidal Passages, A History of the Discovery Islands, Jeanette Taylor, 2008.

*The Columbia is Coming, Doris Andersen; a well-researched and very readable history of the Columbia Coast Mission, which served remote communities from Powell River to Alert Bay. One of the mission’s last ships was Columbia III.

*The Curve of Time, M. Wylie Blanchet; the adventures of a single mother with her large family cruising the coast in the 1930s and 1940s; a BC classic.

**High Slack, Judith Williams; an engaging history of Bute Inlet.

Aboriginal History & Culture

Clam Gardens, Aboriginal Mariculture on Canada’s West Coast, Judith Williams; the book that revealed that Native people managed their primary shellfish resource.

Cedar; Indian Fishing; and Artifacts, Hilary Stewart; line drawings and text describe the many uses of cedar, fishing technology and stone tools in traditional First Nations culture.

Sliammon Life, Sliammon Lands; a history of the Mainland Comox First Nations people of the Church House and Desolation Sound area.

Spirit in the Stone, Joy Inglis, 1998. A guide to the petroglyphs of Quadra Island and elsewhere on the coast by a Quadra Island-based anthropologist.

TNatural History

Wild Flowers of the Pacific Northwest, from Alaska to Northern California, Lewis J. Clarke; a well-illustrated and exhaustive list.

Plants of Coastal BC, including Washington, Oregon & Alaska, Pojar & MacKinnon; easy to use, well-researched and comprehensive.

Listening to the Whales, Alexandra Morton. Who better to tell us this story!

Fiction

*Seagull’s Cry, Maud Emery; a fictional account of a woman’s life as a hand logger’s wife in the Toba Inlet area.

A Tale for the Time Being, Ruth Ozeki; a young girl’s life, partially based in Desolation Sound; shortlisted for the Nan Booker Prize.

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TESTIMONIALS

Over the years, we've provided ‘trips of a lifetime’ for countless travellers from around the world. See what our past guests have to say about their experiences with us.

View Guest Book

“What a wonderful adventure! Thanks for all for your good care, great food and just making it a marvelous time! ”

Mary and Randy, Campbell River B.C.

“Thank you to the Campbell Family for your care of the COLUMBIA III. Your love of the coast is evident everywhere – in your boat, your excursions, your guides and in your respect for both the settler and First Nations culture and history. Thank you for your gift. See you next year.” 

Jackie, Vancouver Island, B.C.

“I feel like I spent the last five days in someone’s home: warm and intimate, but also deeply knowledgeable and with a consistent and classy philosophical approach . . . and a kick-ass cook! Thanks. Can’t wait for my next trip.”

Mike, Vancouver Island, B.C.

“Thank you for another marvelous adventures: food sights, stories, history and whales.”

 – Bill and Alaine, Vancouver Island, B.C. 2017, 2018, and booked for another tour later in 2018!

“Thanks for an outstanding trip. The captain and crew were “above and beyond” to ensure everyone was happy. Great boat, great food, in the best place in the world. First class people running a first class operation. Highlight of the summer. Keep it coming.”

 – Kevin, Vancouver BC 2005

“Thanks for an amazing trip. It was a wonderful opportunity to learn more about the BC coast and its history. I felt I really got a sense of the First Nations presence in this area for the first time.”

– Lynn, Vancouver BC 2011, 2013, 2014

“Thanks again to the Campbell Family. A great coastal “experience” is created by your hospitality and an outstanding week of fun, laughter, and wildlife. You create memories and friendships that will last a lifetime. You keep the trip fun and are the role model experience that others should aspire to. Thank-you.”

–  Kevin (again!), Vancouver BC 2007

“We are truly in awe of the experience you shared with us. The attention to detail and the quality of care you show your guests is outstanding. Fern, the food was incredible, kayaking will always bring back memories of the smells coming from your galley and the camaraderie shared at the table. Ross, your love and enthusiasm for the COLUMBIA III and Mothership Adventures always shows in the stories and knowledge you so freely share. Thank you all for one of the best vacations we’ve ever had, along with the opportunity to share a week in your lives. We can’t thank you enough.”

– 2012 Joan and Michael Collins, Publishers, Sea Kayaker Magazine

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