With summer just around the corner, the Museum at Campbell River and Campbell River Whale Watching and Adventure Tours are partnering to offer boat tours exploring the history of the Discovery Islands. The “History on the Water” boat tours combines the adventure of marine touring, with the addition of a history guide. As you pass rugged coastlines and towering mountains, you’ll follow the routes charted by Captain Vancouver of England, and Captains Galiano and Valdez of Spain, back in 1792. Our guides will share the area’s history, from Indigenous peoples to the impact of industries like logging and commercial fishing, revealing how the land and its resources shaped life on the coast.

The season starts on May 25 with a trip to Thurlow Islands and a stop at Shoal Bay.  These islands are a hidden treasure among some of the most breathtaking scenery. Although sparsely inhabited today, the Thurlow Islands have a rich history from Indigenous villages to logging camps, forestry stations, canneries, and gold mines. On the way, travel through Seymour Narrows and over the historic Ripple Rock site. 

Some new tours this year include a special “Romance on the Rapids” themed sunset tour to Desolation Sound on June 30 with stories of love, lust, and heartbreak on the coast as well as two new trips into Malaspina Inlet to see the area made famous by broadcaster Grant Lawrence and his podcasts about growing up in Desolation Sound.

Passengers will ride in comfort aboard the covered boat operated by Campbell River Whale Watching and Adventure tours. The boat boasts indoor and outdoor seating and is very comfortable, including an onboard bathroom. Each tour combines a Museum History guide to point out key locations amongst the Islands, alongside a Naturalist from Campbell River Whale Watching and Adventures to point out wildlife.