“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

“This was a once-in-a-lifetime trip for us, and it more than lived up to those hopes and dreams. The team’s quiet, competent, confident, and curious leadership helped us feel safe and at ease. All of you went above and beyond to meet our needs and our hopes for adventure in the pristine wilderness that is Great Bear Rainforest.

This was a deeply personal experience for me. I hope it was for everyone else. Memories will stay with me forever. Thank you.”

– Ana & Mark

“Our 6th Mothership Adventure – again, just unbelievable! Thank you beyond words to the amazing crew – Ross, Carly, Dan & Sarah! You took care of our every need and made sure we had such a wonderful time. The kayaking was so much fun, the food over the top & the wildlife sightings always thrilling.”

– Lio & Jean Andruski, Nanaimo, BC

“It’s been an amazing second trip on the CIII. Thank you so much for everything you’ve done for us, from getting us from spot to spot, the wonderful food, the wealth of information & places to see, making sure we were all looked after, to the safe positioning in and out of kayaks!

An added bonus of all the orcas and humpbacks, so many of them! Hope to see you again!”

– Gwen Munday, Victoria, BC

“I really didn’t know what to expect. The wildlife, natural beauty, culture, and people blew my mind. I feel like I saw a part of BC I never knew existed. To the staff, thank you for sharing your passion & knowledge. I truly hope I get to see your smiles again. You made this special place even more special. Thank you from the bottom of my heart for this incredible experience.”

– Hailey Elise, Whistler, BC

“My second journey with Mothership Adventures, after the Raincoast tour. So happy to be back aboard. I’ve wanted to come to Johnstone Strait for many years! This time, I came to the ocean for healing and to find my gratitude and happiness. I found it here, thank you! (Five years a widow, still figuring it out!) Thank you for the easy-going manner and the many great conversations! The crew, boat, and food were fabulous. The adventure was amazing. Thank you so much!”

– Janice Ulrich, Tucson, AZ

“Every day on the Mothership was an adventure. Thanks to the expert crew, so knowledgeable about the natural beauty and cultural history of the Broughton Archipelago. The whales, oh the whales! With hydrophone audio accompanying the crazy great show of orcas, humpbacks, and all the other marine mammals. The delicious meals morning, noon, and night prepared by the talented Carly were fantastic. Thank you for a terrific adventure!”

– Nancy & Roger Page

“How does one put an experience like this into words? I guess I really cannot condense it into syllables. This was an experience of the heart. The crew—beyond amazing. The work & love that goes into offering this experience is so appreciated. I am filled with gratitude.”

– Lori Mitchell, Kalispell, Montana

“The great spirit of the Columbia III team & the environment you have taken us into allowed us to become part of something truly special. Excellent everything. The crew’s love of this country & their beloved ship showed us a deeper understanding of its beauty. Keep it up & bless you all!”

– Michael Peterson, Santa Barbara, CA

“Thanks to Miray, Sarah, Steve & Frieda for a wonderful time with our family to celebrate our 50th wedding anniversary!”

– Ben & Chris Hulme

“Al, Lé, Carly, and Ross have been the most excellent crew on this most excellent kayaking tour of the Broughton Archipelago. We loved all the kayaking, wildlife, delicious meals, and camaraderie. We have been well cared for and will return home refreshed, enlightened, and inspired. Our week on the Columbia III has been a truly wonderful experience. We will take many tales back home with us. Many thanks ♥”

– Rob & Becks, Sacramento, CA

“You have an amazing way of bringing people of so many backgrounds together to laugh, enjoy, and share so many amazing things—history, the water, the stories, the sea life, awesome food, and new friendships. We have so enjoyed every trip with you both and continue to recommend you to everyone we meet. All your staff is so friendly, confident, and competent, always ready to help make our trips even more enjoyable.”

– Dan & Lynne Vega

“Thank you for a wonderful holiday! Cheerful smiles every day, delicious meals (both on-board and on-beach), warm and comfortable accommodations – and then the setting! No matter how many hours one spends on this coast, it never gets old, and there is always something new to see and learn. The sea lion encounter was a highlight of this trip (maybe more exciting for the guests than the guides) – but it all ended happily. Until next time – safe journey all!”

— David & June Ballantyne, Comox, BC

“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

“Wow!!!!! What a privilege to spend the week on this amazing boat!  Thank you for taking us to so many!! Awe-inspiring places! This trip has been on my “BUCKET LIST” for a long time, and it was such an amazing week!!

The whole crew was wonderful and went ABOVE AND BEYOND to make our trip GREAT!

Al and Sarah were a great team and the most excellent guides! Super enthusiastic, passionate, patient, safe, knowledgeable… and with a great sense of humour!

The food was excellent and very creative and I so appreciate Frieda finding creative ways to accommodate my dietary needs!

Steve was an excellent captain and safely navigated us through the amazing GREAT BEAR RAINFOREST and he found us a horned Puffin!!!

Thank you so much for the trip of a lifetime.
You guys are the BEST!!”

– Deb & Bill, Seattle, WA

“My words could not do justice to the absolute gratitude & appreciation I feel towards this beautiful adventure to have been on board these past few days.
Thank you from the depths of my heart.”

– Teresa

“After last year, I didn’t think it was possible to get better. But this trip was one of the most amazing times of my life. From watching grizzly bears crunch on the beach, bow-riding Dall’s porpoise, Pacific white-sided dolphins, huge feeding humpbacks, cruising orcas and a stellar sea lion surprising us right beside the boat, to sea otter lunching during lunch, floating through a veritable forest of underwater life, to sandhill cranes + silently sitting and identifying bird calls—my heart is full of wildlife.

But even more, this incredible crew and their devotion, connection, stewardship, and passion for their jobs is what will keep me coming back year after year.

I would also like to express my utmost gratitude for such an amazing group of travellers. We started as strangers and became a close-knit community. Columbia III—I’ll see you again next year.”

– Mandy Wong, Langley, BC, 2023, 2024

“Wow! I have never experienced kayaking in the coastal rainforest in so much comfort. In the capable and caring hands of our crew—Jonas, Frieda, Al, Sarah—this adventure and experience surpassed all my dreams. I am filled and renewed with wonder and awe.

The synergy of the 8 of us plus the crew was pure magic. Truly an experience of a lifetime and one worth repeating. Thank you, Jonas, Frieda, Sarah, and Al, for all the attentive care, trust, fun, and nourishment of body & soul.

And thanks to all the other beings for blessing us with their presence.”

– Jane W, San Juan Island

“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

“The most amazing & memorable week in the GBR! Grateful to have finally made it on a trip with Al (we did it!) and blessed to have an unreal crew alongside. Frieda, you are awesome—thank you for spoiling us! Jonas is the best captain around! Thanks for letting us sit and watch orcas many times. Al + Sarah—a true dynamic duo. It was beyond fun getting to follow you both around in this stunning place.

And the wildlife! Sandhill cranes and a chick(!), humpbacks, orcas, sooo many Grizz! And we can’t forget the unreal intertidal life—and my new favourite rainbow star. This is definitely a trip to remember! I would come back in a heartbeat. This area, the Columbia III, and the people have been above all + any expectations.

Thank you, thank you, thank you!”

– Carolyn B., Vancouver

“Our 3rd Trip with Mothership — Great Bear Rainforest in Sept 2013, Broughton in July 2018 + Now. 

The first time was just me + Gary meeting new friends. The second time, we brought three friends. This time, the entire ship — w/ family & friends, many who had never met. It was fantastic! The magic of remoteness — never seeing another group of kayakers, seeing so many charismatic Mega Fauna — breaching humpbacks, steller sea lions, a Black Bear w/ cubs and sea otters! And the true magic — evenings of conversation, questions, laughter, and music (No phones or social media distractions.)

Thank you for the trivia game that taught us much about each other. To connect more deeply, 6 great crew, the best meals ever, and those scones! 

One of our best travel decisions — thank you, Ross, for the brilliant idea!”

“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

“Had an absolute blast back in the North West! We were super lucky to see a variety of wildlife. Started with breaching humpbacks on our way out of port, seals and sea otters during our remote paddles, and finished off with some harbour porpoises plus a Black Bear mom & her two cubs in the Broughton Archipelago!”
– Kenny

“Thank you to all the crew who were fantastic. I am truly grateful for our time together sea kayaking in the Broughton Archipelago and your expertise and attention to detail that goes towards putting this all together. The mama bear and two bear cubs were the icing on the cake.”

– Jessic Hotter, Virginia, USA

“We joined the  Campbell River to Port McNeill Cruising Tour, and we couldn’t have enjoyed it more! Thank you to the absolutely fabulous crew who took care of our every need—Ross, Sarah, Miray and Jasmine. The food was over the top excellent, and the daily treks were so informative and so much fun. The camaraderie on board was the best ever.”

– Louise & Jean Andruik, travelled in 2018, 2019, 2021, 2023, two separate tours in 2024, and booked for 2025!

“We had a great time! What a fabulous opportunity to get on the water on this grand lady — she is a beautiful boat. Thank you to the crew Steve, Frieda, Al and Jeanetter for your kindness, professionalism, smooth organization and patience – well done all of you!

– Val Barr

“We joined the Coastal History Cruising tour and loved listening to Jeanette’s stories, visiting diverse sites, and enjoying the onboard hospitality… Butte Lake was impressive—perhaps even more so in the moody atmosphere. And Mitlenatch was a real treat. A great trip!”

– Kathryn Manny, Quadra Island

“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

“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

“You are the perfect crew. I was told that the Mothership experience was to be lived. I’m so glad I did and fortunate that I have been part of this journey. I came out of this trip far more knowledgeable and appreciative of our country and culture. You have such warmth and attention to detail that the trip was so seamless. You are a great and dedicated team. Thank you for your generous sharing and flexibility. The food, wildlife and kayaking are and will be fond memories along with the opportunity of meeting great people.”

– Nicole, ON, Canada. 2012

“Coming back after 7 years was a really great experience. This was a fabulous trip again. Thanks to Ross and the whole crew!”

– Bernd, Jon, Sven and Sabine, Germany 2007, 2014

“This has been a magical trip, we have enjoyed everything! Thank you for your wonderful hospitality on this comfortable ship.”

– Dan & Lynne, British Columbia. Broughton Archipelago 2010, Great Bear Rainforest 2012

“First time in this part of BC. First time kayaking tourer. Got upgraded from absolute newbie to novice during the trip! Not bad for an old desert rat! The food was absolutely fabulous! You are a great crew . . you were almost like friends I hadn’t met before, rather than a ‘company crew’. Hope to see you next fall for the ‘Great Bear Rainforest’ paddling trip.”

– Howard, 2008

“Thank you so much for your welcoming and generous hospitality! And for your caring thoughtfulness in looking after us so well – especially on the water. I was able to meet challenges I wasn’t sure I could achieve. Great personal growth in my kayaking skills. A wonderful adventure! I wish you all the very best.”

– Claudia, Ottawa, Ontario 2018

“We had such a wonderful time. Thank you for sharing yourselves, your country and this wonderful ship with us. There were so many highlights: from the First Nations People, the amazing scenery and seeing so many animals in the wild! Two standouts were the orca fest feeding on the salmon and the raft of otters. We have had a great sense of family with you and the fellow travellers. I cannot tell you how wonderful it was to come back to the COLUMBIA III after a day’s kayaking, to a dry deck, a drink, great food and a comfortable bed gently rocked to sleep by the motion of the waves. Good luck for the future! We hope to see you again.”

– Alex and Sue, Australia 2015

“Trips on the COLUMBIA III have now become a necessity rather than a passing fancy. Thanks to the splendid crew, the wonderful chef and of course, my esteemed Captain Ross. I will rise again and organize another venture!”

– Paddy Victoria BC Whole boat charter, 2011, 2015

“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

“Another amazing trip aboard my favorite boat. It’s like taking our home into the middle of a vast, wild, beautiful wilderness and then getting to quietly be a part of that natural world. A gentle spirit bear, sparring grizzlies, breaching whales and gorgeous paddling water! And then great food, good humor, amazing stories and wonderful friends. Thank you everyone for a unique and fantastic trip.”

– Mary, Cour D’Alene Idaho. 2011, 2013, 2014, 2016, and whole boat charter in 2018, 2022, and whole boat charter in 2024.

“So we travel all the way from England with hope and expectation for a great adventure and what did we get? A bl**dy fantastic adventure! The mix of wildlife, including the elusive Spirit Bear, grizzlies, black bears, wolves, sea otters, eagles and all the rest. Plus guides who know everything about everything!!!!! Plus food that was so, so, so, good, never a scrap was left, plus such great friendship and humour from all the guests and crew. Shame about the Skipper, but can’t have everything I suppose! So many thanks to Ross, Luke, Steve and Farlyn for the best time ever. Such great friends.”

– Steve & Anne, Steve & Carey, 2008, 2009, 2016, and two tours in a row in 2023!