Discover a hidden wildlife gem, in Khutzeymateen located in the northernmost reaches of the Great Bear Rainforest on this wildlife cruise. Encounter the grizzly bears of Khutzeymateen and some of British Columbia’s other prolific wildlife such as humpback whales, orcas, sea lions, dolphins and various birds.
Since it was established in 1994 (the world's first conservation area of its kind), Khutzeymateen Grizzly Bear Sanctuary offers coastal brown bears an area free from the depredations of hunting and logging, where they can feed and rear their young without risk. Scientists estimate that around 50 grizzlies are protected by the no-hunting policy of Canada’s only Grizzly Bear Sanctuary. The headwaters of Khutzeymateen Inlet are protected, and the area was recently expanded to include the entire inlet as the Khutzeymateen Conservancy. As one of the few operators permitted to travel into this area, this voyage provides a unique and intimate bear viewing experience, using Zodiacs to venture right into the estuary where the bears are feeding.
The waters of the north coast are frequented by marine mammals such as seals, sea lions, humpback whales and the infamous orca, or killer whale. We may also encounter Dall’s porpoises, the fastest cetaceans in the oceans, which often ride our bow wave while we are under way. Giant Steller's sea lions are commonly seen hauled out along the rocky shores.
This area has a rich and varied bird population: an amazing number of bald eagles, ravens and various species of gulls gather in the estuaries to feed on the spawning salmon. A variety of other birds, such as the common merganser, black oystercatcher, American dipper and Steller's jays are also common visitors to the rivers of the rainforest.
Typical Itinerary
Day1: Fly to Vancouver
Fly from the UK to Vancouver; depending on your arrival time, you may have an opportunity to head into the centre to explore one of North America’s most vibrant and cosmopolitan cities. Please note: you’ll be unaccompanied until you join your vessel on day 3.
Accommodation: Hotel in Vancouver, 1-night
Day2: Fly to Prince Rupert
Fly from Vancouver to Prince Rupert, arriving this evening. Explore Prince Rupert’s historic downtown and Cow Bay shopping districts, offering a variety of shops, galleries, and restaurants.
Accommodation: Local hotel, 1-night
Day3: Board Island Roamer & set sail for Chatham Sound
Early this morning, transfer to the jetty at Atlin Terminal to board your vessel and meet the crew. After an introductory briefing and safety drill, set sail for Chatham Sound.
Spend two days exploring the larger islands of Chatham Sound, such as Porcher, Stephens and Dundas, while keeping aneye out for marine wildlife such as sea lions, orcas and humpback whales. There will be opportunities to take Zodiac trips along the shore in search of wildlife, and also to use the vessel’s sea kayaks. Onshore, you can hike into the primeval forests of the deserted coastline and up to a viewpoint.
Days6-7: Khutzeymateen Inlet
Sail into protected waters of Khutzeymateen Inlet to explore the Grizzly Bear Sanctuary and watch grizzlies along the shores of the fjords that indent the coastline. June is a great time to see bears who have just emerged from hibernation, some with cubs, At this time of year they are hungry and eager to feed on the many estuary plants that flourish along the shoreline. From the Zodiacs it is possible to get exceptional views of bears feeding, and there is also a chance of seeing the infamous coastal wolf and a multitude of marine mammals.
Day8: Chatham Sound
From the fjord-like Portland Canal, we return to outer islands of Chatham Sound, home to the Tshimshian First Nations peoples for thousands of years, passing two traditional villages en route. Lax Kw'alaams was once a Hudson Bay Company trading post known as Fort Simpson, while Metlakatla became a model Christian community under the leadership of the Revered Duncan in the 1800s. Metlakatla was fortunate to avoid the smallpox that ravaged many native coastal communities. Tiny Green Island still has a manned lighthouse (surrounded by hundreds of nesting gulls).
Day9: Disembark in Prince Rupert
Today navigate the narrow Venn Passage to reach Prince Rupert, stopping to see the incredible collection of ancient native petroglyphs (native rock carvings) en route – including the renowned “Man who fell from heaven” – accompanied by a local Tshimian guide who will help us understand them. Disembark in Prince Rupert and fly to Vancouver.
Accommodation: Hotel in Vancouver, 1-night
Day10: Depart Vancouver
This morning is free for you to explore before your international flight back to the UK.
Day11: Arrive UK
Please note: Exact itinerary and duration will depend on your chosen vessel, departure date and local conditions.
Key info
Duration and price including flights from/to UK: 11 daysfrom £5,070 pp
Duration and price excluding international flights: 9 daysfrom £3,720 pp
Single supplement:
On request – please contact us.
The sanctuary of Khutzeymateen comprises the land that surrounds the inlet of the same name on British Columbia’s north coast. This area, which was important to the First Nations peoples as a place for hunting and fishing, was the first habitat of the grizzly bear to be protected in Canada.
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Where: British Columbia
Ideal for viewing: brown bear, American black bear, American beaver, moose, grey wolf
Excellent for: Wildlife cruises, Bear watching
This inlet between the Haida Gwaii (a.k.a. Queen Charlotte Islands) and Dall Island, extends from Porcher Island north to Portland Inlet. Up to 24 kilometres wide, it runs from Dundas Island to the Tsimpsean Peninsula, and is home to an abundance of fish, resulting in a high number of grizzlies feeding in summer.
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Excellent for: Wildlife cruises, River safaris, Whale watching, Dolphin watching
British Columbia’s largest city stands in a fine coastal setting, against a backdrop of lofty tree-covered peaks - a great starting point to any wildlife holiday in the province. There is plenty to see in this lively, multi-cultural city, such as exploring Stanley Park on foot or by bike.
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Where: British Columbia
Excellent for: Activity & adventure, City stopover, History & culture
This itinerary is available on the following
cruise vessel:
A 21-metre ketch-rigged yacht, the Island Roamer is large enough for comfort, privacy and safety, yet small enough to create a good atmosphere on board. She features eight private cabins, showers, a large salon and lounge areas. On deck, a large covered seating area provides protection against the elements.
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