destinations
We are a commercial boat operator licensed by Parks Canada to offer a water taxi shuttle service within the Gulf Islands National Park Reserve. Have a look at some of the delightful places we can take you exploring, not to mention just touring through and around the many little islets and channels that surround us.
PORTLAND ISLAND
Portland Island, once known as Princess Margaret Marine Provincial Park, is a semi-wilderness gem of the Gulf Islands National Park Reserve. It's a favourite destination for anchored boaters, day hikers and overnight campers. You can charter one of our 12-passenger vessels spend the day on Portland Island hiking and picnicking, sharing the cost with friends for a wonderful day trip. If you want to camp - we can do that as well, drop you off one day and pick up up on another pre-determined day. Departure is most convenient from the Canoe Cove Marina E Dock, located near the BC Ferry Terminal at Swartz Bay. Alternatively, for parties arriving by ferry from the Mainland, it's an easy walk to the government dock at Swartz Bay - and you can save the hassle and cost of bringing your car. The scenic, one-way trip to the island takes about 20 minutes. Drop-off and pick-up is either at the dingy dock in Princess Bay, or further north at Royal Cove. Royal Cove is quite a bit further so additional charges apply. Typically, a hiking group on a day trip may wish to depart the marina at 11 am, spend 4 hours walking the trails & eating lunch, then return at 2 or 3 pm. Parking is free at the marina, with a ticket displayed on the vehicle's dash. You must bring a cell phone for contingencies. Dogs must be on a leash. Drinking water and warm clothing are recommended and all your garbage must be carried out. We encourage you to become familiar with the goals and features of the National Park Reserve, as well as your responsibilities and privileges as a visitor. Click here to go to the website http://www.parkscanada.gc.ca/gulf. The Visitor Guide is particularly helpful. |
RUSSELL ISLAND
Russell Island was settled by Hawaiians as early as 1886. The historic Kanaka house still stands and can be found on a side trail off the northeast portion of the main loop trail that runs around the island. An old water tower and shed also still exist. Through a volunteer agreement with the park reserve, the Mahoi descendants share their family stories about life on Russell Island during the summer months. These are very interesting and often entertaining. Russell Island has natural features typical of the southern Gulf Islands with Douglas fir, arbutus and Garry oak as the prime forest cover. Shore pine rim the island’s outer edges. Wildflowers are abundant in spring and during the summer months. Recreational activities include picnicing, fishing, swimming and paddling. Near the shoreline, watch for mink, river otters and seals. If you are fortunate you might see porpoises or some of the resident orcas. 
CUSTOMIZE YOUR CRUISE
Tell us about yourself and your interests and we will take you on a special cruise. We'll tailor your tour so your children can have playtime on a beach, take you to our favorite bird watching spots or the best places for seal or bald eagle spotting. Bring a picnic or plan a hike, whatever you would like. Celebrate a birthday or a life, get married, watch the sunset...let us know your wishes, or let us share with you the wonder of the Salish Sea. You can choose from 1 - 3 hours. |
SHIN MEI SPIRITUAL CENTRE
Shin Mei Spiritual Centre is home to Matsuri Foundation of Canada. Here, they offer a sacred space where people can find renewal of spirit and learn Shinto practice. The Centre itself has spaces for prayer, meditation, and ceremonies and a library of reading materials on spirituality. The property offers a unique opportunity for Walking Meditation on 2 miles of trails through forested paths.
Sea Star provides the water taxi service for the Matsuri Foundation. All reservations must be made through them directly.
TOAD'S LANDING
Marine architect Bill Garden used to say that he lived on a remote Island in B.C. called “Toad’s Landing.” He apparently chose the nickname because he loved the book The Wind in the Willows. Over his 43 years he lived on the Island he made it a fairytale that still holds magic. New owners Greg Horne and Frances Carere have created spaces that can be used for events. Sea Star provides their transportation needs for many of those events.
Please contact Frances Carere directly to inquire further for your event.
Marine architect Bill Garden used to say that he lived on a remote Island in B.C. called “Toad’s Landing.” He apparently chose the nickname because he loved the book The Wind in the Willows. Over his 43 years he lived on the Island he made it a fairytale that still holds magic. New owners Greg Horne and Frances Carere have created spaces that can be used for events. Sea Star provides their transportation needs for many of those events.
Please contact Frances Carere directly to inquire further for your event.
