Join us on the water this summer to explore our region’s history!
The Museum at Campbell River is once again offering its summer historic boat tours in partnership with Discovery Marine Safaris. Each trip explores the history of the region from the comfort of a 30-passenger boat that includes both indoor and outdoor seating areas, and an on-board washroom. As well as an experienced Captain, there is an on-board naturalist who is constantly on the lookout for wildlife to point out, and a Museum Guide to share historic points of interest.
2021 Trip Descriptions
The Thurlow Islands
The Thurlow Islands are a hidden treasure in the wilderness. Although sparsely inhabited, they have a rich history of steam donkeys, float houses, logging camps, gold mines and tidal rapids. Stop at Blind Channel Resort for a delicious meal and a brief chat with a member of the Richter family, a family who has been living on West Thurlow Island for several generations.
Sonora Island
Cruising past Quadra, Read, Maurelle, and Stuart Islands to reach Sonora Island, you will experience the area’s notorious tidal rapids, and hear tales from the past of many landmarks along the way.
Desolation Sound
Experience the myriad bays and inter-connected coves nestled among the small islands of Desolation Sound. Take in the rugged beauty of the backdrop of the coastal mountains. Trip includes visits to the peaceful lagoon and picturesque falls at Teakerne Arm, and to Prideaux Haven, one of the most popular boating anchorages in the region. Some trips include a meal stop at Refuge Cove!
Redonda Islands & Waddington Channel
Heather Harbord, author of Desolation Sound, referred to West Redonda as the “Social Centre of the Sound.” West Redonda had two settlements – Refuge Cove and Redonda Bay. Of the two, Refuge Cove has always been bigger, and today is still a hive of activity, at least in the summer months with its charming and eclectic community. East and West Redonda are known for their topography – their towering peaks and some of the deepest waters of the passage. Bring your own lunch for an on-board picnic.
Cortes Island
Whaletown on Cortes Island received its name from a whaling station located there in the late 1800s. Hear about the impacts of this station, and find out about historic First Nations whaling practices in the region. While we circumnavigate the island you will also learn about the other stories this unique island has to tell. Pack your own lunch for an on-board picnic.
This is the current COVID-19 safety plan for these trips. It may change over time as the Public Health Orders are adjusted.
Members get a discount on boat tours! Talk to our reception desk for more information!
| Date | Time | Destination | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| June 6 | 1pm - 5pm | Sonora Island | $170 |
| June 13 | 1pm - 5pm | Desolation Sound (no stops) | $170 |
| June 20 | 3pm - 8pm | Thurlow Islands with Solstice Dinner at Blind Channel Resort | $245 |
| June 27 | 1pm - 6pm | Thurlow Islands - Lunch at Blind Channel | $220 |
| July 4 | 8am - noon | Desolation Sound | $170 |
| July 11 | 3pm - 8pm | Thurlow Islands - Dinner at Blind Channel | $245 |
| July 18 | 1pm - 6pm | Desolation Sound - Lunch at Refuge Cove | $210 |
| July 25 | 8am - noon | Circumnavigation of Cortes Island | $170 |
| Aug. 1st | 8am - noon | Desolation Sound | $170 |
| Aug. 8 | 8am - noon | Redonda Islands - Waddington Channel | $170 |
| Aug. 15 | 1pm - 6pm | Thurlow Islands - Lunch at Blind Channel | $220 |
| Aug 22 | 8am - noon | Circumnavigation of Cortes Island | $170 |
| Aug. 29 | 8am - noon | Desolation Sound | $170 |
*Prices are per person plus GST. Beverages at Meals are not included. All passengers will meet at Discovery Marine Safaris’ new office at 104-909 Island Highway at least 30 minutes before the scheduled departure.
