An Immersive and Authentic Cultural Experience
Explore Gwaii Haanas, appropriately translating to “Islands of beauty”
Weave amongst the 138 islands that create Gwaii Haanas National Park Reserve, National Marine Conservation Area, and Haida Heritage Site. Jointly managed by Parks Canada and the Council of Haida Nation, Gwaii Haanas encompasses roughly the southern third of Haida Gwaii, creating a refuge from industrial logging and preserving the vast ecosystem that provides for so many flora and fauna species.
For the Haida people, the boundary between earth and ocean exists only on a map. As one of the Haida Ways of Being lists out on the Haida Pledge: “everything depends on everything else” – on this trip, we hope to bring this concept to life by not only experiencing wildlife encounters and historic cultural sites, but by learning deeply about them and exploring how everything is interconnected in this spectacular archipelago.
- Unparalleled First Nations Culture. Gain a deeper understanding of the rich Haida culture by visiting historic village sites and receiving interpretation by the Haida Watchmen.
- Raise the Sails. Enjoy the steady silence as your crew unfurl the sails and set course along the coast.
- Moss Laden Forestscape. Tread lightly through the mossy undergrowth as cedars and spruce tower above, having stood sentinel in these places for millenia.
- A Birder’s Paradise. Binoculars at the ready to spot the many special winged species that call the islands of Gwaii Haanas home.
- Micro to Macro Wildlife. From the small shell home of the abalone to the metric tonne sized sea lion, Haida Gwaii offers a plethora of wildlife viewing potential.
Availability is always subject to confirmation. Please check with us before booking flights
Prices quoted here are often dependent on currency fluctuations. Please check with (01432 507450 or info@small-cruise-ships.com) for the very latest price, which may well be cheaper than the one advertised here.
Prices quoted here are often dependent on currency fluctuations. Please check with (01432 507450 or info@small-cruise-ships.com) for the very latest price, which may well be cheaper than the one advertised here.
Prices quoted here are often dependent on currency fluctuations. Please check with (01432 507450 or info@small-cruise-ships.com) for the very latest price, which may well be cheaper than the one advertised here.
Prices quoted here are often dependent on currency fluctuations. Please check with (01432 507450 or info@small-cruise-ships.com) for the very latest price, which may well be cheaper than the one advertised here.
Prices quoted here are often dependent on currency fluctuations. Please check with (01432 507450 or info@small-cruise-ships.com) for the very latest price, which may well be cheaper than the one advertised here.
Prices quoted here are often dependent on currency fluctuations. Please check with (01432 507450 or info@small-cruise-ships.com) for the very latest price, which may well be cheaper than the one advertised here.
Prices quoted here are often dependent on currency fluctuations. Please check with (01432 507450 or info@small-cruise-ships.com) for the very latest price, which may well be cheaper than the one advertised here.
Prices quoted here are often dependent on currency fluctuations. Please check with (01432 507450 or info@small-cruise-ships.com) for the very latest price, which may well be cheaper than the one advertised here.
Prices quoted here are often dependent on currency fluctuations. Please check with (01432 507450 or info@small-cruise-ships.com) for the very latest price, which may well be cheaper than the one advertised here.
Prices quoted here are often dependent on currency fluctuations. Please check with (01432 507450 or info@small-cruise-ships.com) for the very latest price, which may well be cheaper than the one advertised here.
Prices quoted here are often dependent on currency fluctuations. Please check with (01432 507450 or info@small-cruise-ships.com) for the very latest price, which may well be cheaper than the one advertised here.
Prices quoted here are often dependent on currency fluctuations. Please check with (01432 507450 or info@small-cruise-ships.com) for the very latest price, which may well be cheaper than the one advertised here.
Prices quoted here are often dependent on currency fluctuations. Please check with (01432 507450 or info@small-cruise-ships.com) for the very latest price, which may well be cheaper than the one advertised here.
Prices quoted here are often dependent on currency fluctuations. Please check with (01432 507450 or info@small-cruise-ships.com) for the very latest price, which may well be cheaper than the one advertised here.
Prices quoted here are often dependent on currency fluctuations. Please check with (01432 507450 or info@small-cruise-ships.com) for the very latest price, which may well be cheaper than the one advertised here.
Prices quoted here are often dependent on currency fluctuations. Please check with (01432 507450 or info@small-cruise-ships.com) for the very latest price, which may well be cheaper than the one advertised here.
Meet early morning to take part in what Bluewater calls the ‘Land Tour’ of Haida Gwaii prior to boarding the boat; expanding your understanding of Haida culture and allowing a deeper appreciation and comprehension of the land and incredible historic sites we will see during the trip. The land tour includes a visit to the Haida Heritage Centre, traditional Haida lunch, and an interpretive walk at Spirit Lake. In the afternoon, guests are transferred by shuttle van to Moresby Camp where you will meet your Bluewater Adventures crew & vessel, enjoy dinner onboard, and set sail south for Gwaii Haanas.
The islands of Gwaii Haanas offer an ethereal landscape of sandy beaches, lowland rainforest, and boggy plateau. The archipelago also provides a remarkable evolutionary showcase. Theories suggest that parts of Haida Gwaii escaped the last ice age, forming a refuge for plant and animal life. This helps to explain the presence of unique plant species and sub-species of wildlife found only in archipelago.
Haida Watchmen welcome us to historic Haida village sites including T’aanuu Llnagaay (Tanu), K’uuna Llnagaay (Skedans), and SGang Gwaay (Anthony Island) – a designated UNESCO World Heritage Site. The Haida Watchmen share their knowledge of traditional culture and bring their ancestors’ villages to life under weathered monumental poles and amid the remains of multi-tiered longhouses. Weather permitting, we may visit Hlk’yah GawGa (Windy Bay) on Lyell Island, the site of the first pole raised in 130 years. There may also be a chance to visit G̱andll K’in Gwaay.yaay (Hotspring Island) for a refreshing hot soak.
In addition to these incredibly special historic Haida sites, guests can anticipate days filled with flora and fauna, shore excursions, and the potential for morning and evening kayaking. A vast array of seabirds and marine life such as whales and sea lions will keep us company at sea; while floating through K’iid Xyangs K’iidaay (briefly known as Burnaby Narrows) gazing down at the rainbow of intertidal life is always another highlight. Haida Gwaii also offers excellent opportunities to raise the sails and give guests the thrill and serenity of sailing.
Guests will disembark around mid-morning back at Moresby Camp where the shuttle bus will be waiting to return them back to the (Sandspit) K’il Kun Xidgwangs Daanaay Airport. Guests can plan to catch the afternoon flight back to Vancouver or explore the area further on their own.
We keep our itineraries purposefully flexible allowing our captains to cater to the needs and interests of their group as well as take into account weather, wildlife sightings, and more.
Island Roamer
Vessel Type: Yacht
Length: 21 metres
Passenger Capacity: 16
Built: 1983
The Island Roamer is a custom 68-foot ketch, launched in 1983. The boat's design, safety and comfort make her perfect for these trips. She features 8 private cabins (double occupancy), 3 heads with hot showers, a large comfortable lounge with an extensive library, and a well-equipped galley. On deck, the large covered seating area provides protection in all types of weather. The Island Roamer is large enough for comfort, privacy and safety, and small enough to create a good rapport among passengers and crew.
Deck plans are for illustrative purposes only – The actual ship and cabin layout may differ.
Island Solitude
Vessel Type: Yacht
Length: 82 feet/24.9 meters
Passenger Capacity: 12
Built: 2017
With state-of-the-art technology, this new yacht is the most breathtaking, elegant, and efficient tour vessel on the northwest Pacific coast. She carries twelve guests in six cabins with two lower beds and ensuite bathrooms. The wheelhouse on deck accommodates the entire group for meals at two tables with incredible views.
Food on Board
Meals are served family-style, in the wheelhouse, with 360-degree ocean views.
Fusion-style cuisine drawing on global influences is freshly made to suit a variety of tastes. Food is sourced locally when possible.
Passengers will enjoy optional hot breakfast. Tea and coffee are always available, and snacks such as home-baked muffins and cookies are served during the day. Food sensitivities and special diets can be accommodated with advance notice.
Facilities
Indoor Lounge
Outdoor Lounge
Observation Platform
Zodiac Platform
Salon
Kitchen
