Days 8 - 9: Ucluelet
Distance: 182km/114 miles
Wind your way through the ancient Douglas fir trees of Cathedral Grove as you drive across the island, check out the Mars fire bomber, based at Sproat Lake, take a walk further along the beach, for a close-up view of the ancient petroglyphs.
Every day at low-tide, black bears can be seen wandering out of the temperate rainforest and onto the rocky shores of Barkley Sound to forage for food. This natural behavior provides an excellent opportunity to view black bears, often seen with their cubs, turning massive rocks in search of Rock Crabs and clams. On your included cruise you will travel along the Sound which provides a chance to see sea lions, seals, herons, and eagles as well as the bears, all in their natural environment.
Days 10 - 11: Campbell River
Distance: 245km/153 miles
Heading north to Campbell River make a stop at Parksville where you can relax on the sandy beaches and admire the stunning shoreline of Qualicum Beach. Continuing north, you end up at Campbell River, the Salmon Capital of the World.
From Campbell River board your covered boat for a guided trip through the Discovery Passage into Johnston Strait to view killer whales, in the world-famous Robson Bight ecological reserve. On your journey you will have the opportunity to view humpback, gray and minke whales, Pacific white-sided dolphins, porpoise, seals, and sea lions in their natural environment.
Days 12 - 13: Lund
Distance: 115km/72 miles plus ferry
The glorious Sunshine Coast is the next stop on your journey. In Comox, you’ll board the ferry to Powell River, the hub of the Sunshine Coast that successfully combines the great outdoors with historic and cultural appeal.
Lund is the ideal place for a cruise to watch for whales, sea lions, porpoises, seals, and coastal marine birds on a scenic cruise into Desolation Sound. Alternatively, you could take a water taxi ride from Lund to Savary Island; the island’s white sand beaches and warm swimming waters are reminiscent of more tropical destinations.