Our Food

“What a team! Thank you so much for giving us such a wonderful experience in the Great Bear Rainforest! We saw grizzlies and their cubs, black bears, bald eagles, minks… the list goes on. A highlight was seeing a magnificent spirit bear as it wandered down, feeding on salmon in the water.

Sarah and Al, your enthusiasm for this beautiful part of the world meant every day paddling with you both was amazing. Frieda, your meals were divine, and Steve, thank you for taking us to so many beautiful spots and for pointing out some lovely otters in the water.”

– Pel & Julie, Perth, Australia

“It’s hard to capture in words the experiences we have had on this trip. It is such a privilege to share it with some amazing new friends Bill, Andrew, Deb, and Elizabeth. Our kind and patient guides, Al and Sarah, have ensured we have seen as much as possible, from breaching humpbacks to barnacle-eating nudibranchs, red-throated loons to mink.

In safety and comfort, Frieda (who runs this ship) has prepared the most amazing food — no one will ever go hungry aboard the Columbia III. And Steve is certainly “eager” when it comes to piloting a boat! Everyone on board has made sure the guests are so well looked after. We can’t thank you enough.”

— Georgia & Michael

“We have been treated to a sumptuous abundance of generosity, kindness, natural riches (so, so many), laughter, rain, personalized care, stunningly good food, a crew that made us feel safe & happy, and a home where no matter how wet or chilly we had gotten, we would be warm and well-fed.

What a treat to be back on the Columbia III after 20 years! We won’t let that much time pass before we return! Your assembled crew that you can be so proud of—they are truly fabulous. Thanks so much for everything!!!”

– Sara

“What a fantastic time & wonderful wildlife! I also haven’t had such wonderful meals for so long ever & will remember this trip forever. Thanks so much,”
– Mary

“The food and service would rival any I have ever experienced; the professionalism, knowledge, and friendliness of the family crew were beyond comparison.” 

– Bill Vanderford – Bill has won numerous awards for his writing and photography, and has been inducted into the National Freshwater Fishing Hall of Fame as a Legendary Guide.

“For Captain Campbell and crew – Thank-you for your competence, caring, professionalism and camaraderie. The ‘grub’ was superior to what we had on both the QE II and the QM III (no kidding!!) We appreciate the comfort, cleanliness and ambience of the Columbia III. We bonded with the crew and passengers. The kayaking was more than we hoped for – Fantastic! In fact we loved the trip so much we have already signed up for August 2009.” 

– John and Jeanne, Florida

“These few days spent on the Columbia III truly have been some of the most incredible days of my life so far. Wish I could wrap it all up! J Starting off with Fern’s incredible cooking, then onto our days on the water and topping it off with laughter, music, and phenomenal company (and more great food) and peaceful slumber. Thank you once again! It feels like I have a new extended family! Love and peace to you all! See you next year!!” 

– Kim and Duane, Jacksonville Florida 2014

“Thank-you for the never-ending supply of delicious and healthful meals. The variety you offered was equaled by the presentation. We looked forward every day to what new delights awaited us. And thank-you for sharing your recipes – I will be thinking of you and the Columbia III every time I make ‘Fern’s Couscous salad’.”

– Kathie and Bill, Zeballos BC 2007

“Thank you for taking such good care of me – with my vegan diet. It has been a real delight to travel on the Columbia III thanks to your wonderful hospitality.” 

– Marcia, Victoria B.C.

“Spectacular! Paddling was delightful, food out-of-this-world, ship perfect size, class, etc., and awesome guides. You have a great team.”

– Jim and Kay. Montana, USA 2005, 2006, 2009

“Loved the home-cooked meals… from the tasty soup, fresh crab, and wild salmon to the freshly baked rosemary bread and blueberry muffins. The cheese scones are to die for… yummy! I not only liked the homemade cooking but most of all, the top of the world service was out of this world!”

– Condrea Jung

“Beyond my expectations in every way. Thank-you so much for taking such great care of my weird diet!”

– Maureen, B.C. 2008, 2009, 2011

“We wish to thank you from our deepest souls for this incredible week we have shared with you. You welcomed us with open arms from the moment we stepped onto the Columbia III Your hospitality was far beyond all expectations. Fern, your food was an absolute highlight – so nourishing to our souls and bodies . And the kayaking adventures will be a lifetime memory – Thank you so much Steve and Luke !! And Ross, thanks for bringing us close to incredible wildlife – eagles feeding orcas, humpbacks and wolf tracks! Your love and appreciation for this wonderful place in which you live is contagious – we look forward to returning soon. We thank you for this incredible gift you’ve given us! With all our love.”

– Mickey and Sue California, USA 2012