BALLAD OF NINSTINTS - Queen Charlotte Islands

You are interested in Haida First Nation Culture, wildlife viewing and much more? You prefer to have a dry, warm and cozy berth every night rather than a tent? Well, here we go ...

Trip details

This itinerary is a sample only - the exact itinerary of your trip will be dictated by factors such as weather, tides, and group interest, with the guides working within the parameters of safety, time, and the highlights of the area.

Day 0

You must arrive in Sandspit prior to day 1 of your trip. Those wishing to spend some time exploring before or after the trip can travel north to Graham Island to visit Queen Charlotte City, the native village of Skidegate, and the Queen Charlotte Museum at Skidegate Landing.

We invite you to contact our friendly and knowledgeable staff to assist with any pre/post travel arrangements.

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Day 1

In the early morning you will be taken by van/zodiac or by plane to meet the 'Ocean Light II'. You may begin your trip with a visit to the magical moss-laden remains of west coast artist Emily Carr's favourite Haida Villages, T'anuu or "Seagrass Town".

What to wear on the transfer to boat:  There will be some options with regard to your transfer to the boat. You may be transferred by van or by float plane. Some trips may start or finish in Sandspit. Your transfer will be based on weather, group needs and interest. For all options please have warm clothing including rain gear available and wear your boots.
Meals:  lunch  /  dinner

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Day 2 - 7

Beyond T'anuu, we may take the Inside Passage through beautiful Darwin Sound with its steep-sided mountains into scenic De La Beche Inlet. If weather permits we may venture along the east side of Lyell Island and into magnificent Windy Bay (Hlk'waah), a primeval watershed of ancient cedar and spruce forests.

Further travels include cruising along the Tar Islets, and through Juan Perez Sound - where the fabulous Hotsprings Island lies. Across Juan Perez Sound is Burnaby Narrows with an incredibly rich display of intertidal life. This area also affords access to the Charlottes' alpine, with its ornate bonsai bogs studded with miniature sundew. The narrows open southward into Skincuttle Inlet where we witness the unique and sometimes bizarre nocturnal habits of many of the nesting seabirds.

We leave the East Coast through Houston-Stewart Channel, passing by the old whaling station at Rose Harbour to the open West Coast. Here we visit Sgan Gwaii (Anthony Island), cultural site of Ninstints Village with its great display of Haida totems and spiritual ambience from the powerful past of its former residents. We may also have an opportunity to visit many of the surrounding inlets and western shores of Sgan Gwaii to view seals, sea lions, and breathtaking seascapes.

Sailing opportunities are limited as our prime objective is to use the 'Ocean Light II' as a mode of travel between the spots of special interest exploring these areas on foot and by kayak and inflatable.
Meals:  breakfast  /  lunch  /  dinner

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Day 8

An early morning zodiac/ van or plane will take you back into Sandspit. In order to accommodate any delays in returning to Sandspit, please book the afternoon flight to Vancouver.
Meals:  breakfast 

 

The Boat

The ‘Ocean Light II’ is an Ocean 71 ‘ketch and is thought by many to be the perfect B.C. Coast charter yacht. With fourteen Atlantic crossings, the ‘Ocean Light II’ has the pedigree and comfort to make any sailing experience with her one to remember. It has a spacious, well-maintained interior of mahogany, authentic Douglas Fir and white enamel.

The layout offers 5 separate guest cabins that are closed off from the rest of the yacht. A berth will be assigned to each person upon arrival. There are two heads, a shower and the interior is all newly remodeled. The main salon located below deck is a spacious 14’ x 17’, which seats twelve comfortably while still leaving space to move about freely. There is ample deck space and she is very comfortable under sail. ‘Ocean Light II’ features all of the extras expected: a 20 ft hard bottom inflatable with 50hp four stroke engine and seven kayaks as well as an extensive library for your enjoyment.

The Crew

We are really excited and fortunate to have Chris join our team. With more than 15 years of experience, Chris is highly respected in the charter industry on the BC Coast and in SE Alaska. He will bring his expertise and new energy to Ocean Light II adventures. Chris is Canadian Coast Guard certified and has commanded research vessels responsible for marine mammal studies, wildlife documentaries and seabird surveys. Assisting Chris as crew guide and cook is Jenn Broom who has been working on the coast for 17 years. Also on board will be Sarah, Jenn’s 10 year old daughter, who has over ten years of coastal experience to her credit.

Meals

We take special care in preparing nutritious and delicious meals. A large percentage of the food served is organic. The meals will include fresh seafood, homemade soups, breads and salads. We will also get the opportunity to barbecue fish ashore. Wine is served with dinner, and you may bring your own drinks to be consumed in moderation and only when the anchor is down for the night. We will not tolerate excessive drinking on our vessel. Clients have the option to assist guides in food gathering and preparation. If you have any dietary restrictions, please let us know well in advance.