Haida Gwaii: Canada’s Wild Archipelago
August 8-15
Join Bluewater Adventures
and Captain Randy Burke (long-time North Shore Unitarians member)
for this trip of a lifetime!
(Special pricing for NSU congregants)
Bluewater Adventures now has 8 spaces open on the August 8-15 trip (after a group cancellation). No spaces are reserved and we will book on a first come, first serve basis. There are 3 people still booked on the trip.
Off the rugged north Pacific coast of British Columbia lies Haida Gwaii, an archipelago of over 200 islands often called "Canada's Galapagos" for its remarkable biodiversity and unique wildlife. This remote and breathtakingly beautiful land is an ecological treasure, shaped by its isolation and the enduring presence of the Haida people.
We explore mystical old growth rainforests, where towering hemlock, spruce, and cedar have been standing for centuries. We will navigate dramatic coastlines, sheltered bays, and remote inlets. While underway, we keep on the lookout for marine life, including humpback whales, orca, dolphins, curious sea lions, and an abundance of sea birds. The islands of Haida Gwaii have always surprised us with random sightings that we never can predict!
For millennia, the Haida people have been the guardians of these islands, with their deep connection to the land and sea woven into their culture and traditions. We have permission to visit ancient Haida villages, totem poles still standing proudly and learn from Haida Watchmen about their stories, life and recent recognition of land title to Haida Gwaii. Immerse yourself in this natural paradise and give back by helping to collect marine debris on remote west coast beaches.
The southern archipelago is protected as the Gwaii Haanas National Park Reserve, National Marine Conservation Area Reserve, and Haida Heritage Site, a testament to collaborative conservation efforts between the Haida Nation and the Government of Canada. These initiatives strive to preserve the unique ecosystems, and the many endemic species found nowhere else on Earth, such as the Haida Gwaii black bear and several unique bird subspecies.
Haida Gwaii beckons with its unparalleled natural beauty and profound cultural heritage, offering an unforgettable journey into western Canada's wild heart.
MORE Info:
Vessel: Island Solitude is an 82’ motor-sailor and Bluewater Adventures’ new flagship. Launched in 2018, she has 6 private ensuite double occupancy guest cabins. With two zodiacs for frequent shore excursions and 6 sea kayaks to quietly explore bays and shorelines, Solitude is the perfect vehicle to explore this area.
Trip Cost: After a recent group cancellation, Bluewater is offering North Shore Unitarians 25% off. The regular price is $9840 plus tax. You can join the trip for $7380, plus 5% GST. Airfare to Sandspit, BC is in addition.
Donation: As part of the trip price, $400 per person will be donated to NSUC.
For further information: Please see the attached trip itinerary and visit the Bluewater Adventure website:
www.bluewateradventures.ca
To book or ask questions please contact Heather Burke (heather@bluewateradventures.ca) or call 604-980-3800.