Sightseeing

Chemainus’ centralized location makes it an ideal base for Gulf Island touring: it’s just a short hop to many of the Gulf Islands’ most brilliant ‘jewels’. Thetis Island’s Telegraph Harbour is just minutes away. A little farther north, there’s the unparalleled beauty of Gabriola Island’s Silva and Degnen Bays. To the south, Galliano and Saltspring Islands’ harbours and bays offer enough variety in sightseeing, shopping, and dining experiences to match everyone’s taste.

Birdwatchers will want to have their binoculars handy when they pass by the sandstone cliffs of Valdez or Gabriola Island, just two of the ideal bird watching locations nearby. If you’re fortunate, you might spot a Peregrine Falcon among the Bald Eagles, Ospreys, and Cormorants that typically nest in these areas. A lucky few will experience the unforgettable thrill of sighting a pod of itinerant Orcas or Pilot Whales as they ply the waters with fluid grace and colossal power.

Take a guided historical tour to DeCourcy Island and visit the site of the notorious Brother Twelve Colony. The legend of Edmund Arthur Wilson, Brother Twelve’s founder, will come alive for you when you stroll through the trails of DeCourcy Island Provincial Park as you listen to tales of the charismatic leader’s nefarious deeds and rumours about a cache of gold coins that mysteriously disappeared on the island. Just ask your captain: he’ll tell you all there is to know about the legend of Brother Twelve.

The islands offer magnificent provincial parks to explore, and countless art galleries and crafts markets to visit. Scores of holiday celebrations and art festivals are scheduled throughout the summer months: your host, Brian Francoeur, will help you make arrangements to attend any special event that captures your interest. Whatever you seek, Gulf Islands Explorers can make it happen. To book your tour or for more info, click on the icons below:

Our 4 hour tour rates are $65.00 Can + GST per person for adults and $45.00 + GST per person for children under 16. Can accommodate groups of up to 12 persons.
Family packages are available by request—please call ahead for details.

Our tour packages include the following:

• 4-hour cruise
• Lunch & refreshments
  • Our DeCourcy Island Tour also includes:
  • Guided Tour of DeCourcy Island Provincial Park