The West of Canada

From Vancouver, you embark on your 9-day journey along the famous Sunshine Coast. The Sunshine Coast District can only be reached by water. Your ferry departs from Horseshoe Bay, north of Vancouver. Once on board, you immerse yourself in the breathtaking world of fjords, glaciers, and mountains. Marvel at the nature of this beautiful region and finally disembark in Langdale. From here, you continue by car through dense forests and secluded fishing villages along the coast to the exclusive West Coast Wilderness Resort, where you will spend the night.

Today, you can shape your day according to your own desires. Go hiking through the dense forests of the region. Visit one of the fishing villages along the coast, or indulge yourself in the wellness area of the resort and then enjoy the beautiful view of nature from one of the spacious terraces with a glass of wine.

Today you travel north to the ferry terminal East Coast. From here, you will take about an hour's ride through the waterways and fjords of the region to Saltery Bay and then to another ferry terminal on the Powell River. Your journey's destination is Quadra Island, a small island located directly on the waterway to Alaska. The small island enchants with its warm climate and beautiful nature. Almost 3,000 people live here in a closely-knit community and will welcome you to Quadra Island.

Today, you will again board a ship. In the region of the Sunshine Coast, characterized by waterways, fjords, and straits, nature is usually best explored from aboard a ship. Enjoy the view of towering mountains and rocky coasts. Your journey's destination is the strait known as Desolation Sound. This is a popular destination for boat trips because not only does it offer a fantastic view of the surrounding landscape, but the water also has a special deep blue color due to the depth of the sound. Waterfalls from the mountains flow into the dark blue water here, and on the nearby Toba Inlet, an island in the middle of Desolation Sound, you might be lucky enough to observe one of the largest bears in the world – the grizzly bear, or its smaller relative, the black bear.

Today, you will take the ferry back to the mainland and continue along the wild West Coast to Tofino – a charming coastal town and ideal starting point for nature experiences on the Pacific, lakes, and rainforest. On the way, you'll encounter impressive stops: In Cathedral Grove Park, you can admire Douglas firs that are up to 800 years old with massive trunk circumferences. At the nearby Sproat Lake, you'll see the imposing Mars water bombers – former firefighting planes of gigantic size. Through the Sutton Pass, the route continues with magnificent views of the rugged Sawtooth Range. In the late afternoon, you will arrive in Tofino and let the impressions of the day wind down relaxingly.

Today, it's time to explore the surroundings of Tofino. Take a trip to the famous Long Beach for a walk along the fine sandy beach, or dare to surf in the waves. Discover the rainforest on one of the many well-preserved trails. Afterwards, embark on a three-hour cruise and observe orcas, humpback whales, porpoises, and sea lions in their natural habitat. With a bit of luck, you might also spot a bald eagle or a puffin in the sky.

Today, you will leave Tofino and travel south to Victoria. The capital of British Columbia boasts beautiful colonial architecture, a vibrant harbor district, and some of the country's most stunning gardens and parks. On your way to the capital, you have the chance to visit Chemainus. An artist community where you can admire not only beautiful murals and art galleries but also the totem town of Duncan. There stands one of the largest collections of centuries-old totem poles.

If time permits, a visit to Quw’utsun, a village still inhabited by the indigenous Coast People, is worth it. The locals will give you an insight into their traditions and way of life.

Today, you have the whole day to explore Victoria. The capital of British Columbia impresses with beautiful architecture shaped by the influences and traditions of the late 19th century. A hint of British influence from long-ago times, when the capital was named after the English queen, still lingers in the air. Enjoy a nice tea with scones in the afternoon at one of the many small eateries, and then stroll through the Butchart Gardens. This 22-hectare flower garden was established over a hundred years ago and today offers an incredible variety of plants from around the world, arranged in beautiful plots and oases.

Today, it's time to say goodbye to Victoria. At the Swartz Bay Ferry Terminal, you board the ferry one last time. Enjoy this final journey through the beauty of the Sunshine Coast to Vancouver. Here, your journey through one of the most beautiful coastal regions in the world comes to an end today. Depart Canada with memories of whales, deep lakes, beautiful beaches, and the magical atmosphere of the Sunshine Coast.