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.
Explore Canada’s remote wilderness on this unique small group adventure, where you can observe magnificent grizzly bears in their natural habitat. As bears emerge from hibernation and the mating season begins, the Khutzeymateen Inlet offers exceptional opportunities to view wild grizzlies roaming beneath snow-capped mountains. This region plays a vital role in grizzly bear conservation efforts, protecting the pristine coastal environment that these iconic animals depend on.
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
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Day 1:
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.
Accommodation: Island Roamer, 6-nights
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Days 2-3
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Chatham Sound
Spend two days exploring the larger islands of Chatham Sound, such as Porcher, Stephens and Dundas, while keeping an eye out for marine wildlife such as sea lions, orcas and humpback whales. There are 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.
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Days 4-5
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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're hungry and eager to feed on the many estuary plants that flourish along the shoreline. From the Zodiacs it's possible to get exceptional views of bears feeding, and there's also a chance of seeing the infamous coastal wolf and a multitude of marine mammals.
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Day 6:
Chatham Sound
From the fjord-like Portland Canal, we return to the 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).
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Day 7:
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.
For those keen to extend their wildlife experience, a trip to nearby areas including venturing further into the Great Bear Rainforest also offers the chance to encounter elusive black bears in their coastal habitat.
Please note: Exact itinerary and duration will depend on your chosen vessel, departure date and local conditions.
EXPEDITION VESSEL
