Points of Interest
Ports
Cruise the Gulf Islands in Fall
Sail Intricate Waterways Across Hundreds of Mild Islands
This small ship cruise explores the Gulf Islands, Canada, an archipelago of islands in the protected Salish Sea between Vancouver Island and the mainland of British Columbia. It is one of the world’s best small-boat cruising destinations. You’ll island hop in the National Park, visit wildlife colonies, walk the rainforest and rocky bluffs, and explore remote beaches and tiny islands.
Itinerary Details
- Ships: Maple Leaf (Sailing Ship)
- Duration: 4 or 5 Days
- Ports: Nanaimo or Sydney
Gulf Islands in Fall
- Maple Leaf
- 6 Days
Sample Itineraries: As with all expedition cruises, the itinerary may change based on weather, wildlife activity, and interests of the guests. This itinerary is to give you a general idea of the trip.
Day 1: Orientation, cruising into the Gulf Islands, Canada. Seabird island visit, wildlife watching, porpioses. Anchorage at Saturna Island, southern point of the Gulf Islands Canada.
Day 2: Morning hike on Saturna Island, forest ecology learning. Cruising, beachcombing a remote island, sea lion and seabird haul out. Wild life viewing through the gulf islands
Day 3: Village visit, sailing in Georgia Strait and one of many channels in the area. Anchorage Prevost Island, within the Gulf Islands BC. Exploring the interidal life at low tide. Hike to view and mariner’s light.
Day 4: Cruising to either Wallace Island, Penelakut Island or other central Island. Historic and First Nations history. Wildflower meadows or mushroom, fall foliage highlighs, island anchorage. Optional kayak.
Day 5: Sailing, Russell Island anchorage, woodland shore walk and Kanaka history.
Day 6: Morning shore walk, cruising to port watching for wildlife.
Departures
Find your ideal trip dates below. All prices are listed in Canadian dollars.
| Date | Price | # of Nights | Start Port | End Port | Ship |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| October 21 – 24, 2025 | $2,700 | 3 | Nanaimo | Sidney | Maple Leaf |
| October 25 – 29, 2025 | $3,550 | 4 | Sidney | Sidney | Maple Leaf |
| October 28 – November 2, 2026 | $3,700 | 5 | Sidney | Sidney | Maple Leaf |
Experience the Gulf Islands
See the Gulf Islands through the eyes of our guests
What People Say
See what our guests have to say about our Gulf Islands adventures.
Highlights
Golden Colours of Autumn Line the Islands at This Time of Year
Explore the island colours on hikes, beach walks, and tours through historic homesteads.
Related Stories
Follow our coastal expeditions with notes from the field.
Frequently Asked Questions
Answers to your questions about our Gulf Islands itineraries. Refer to our Frequently Asked Questions for more general trip and booking information.
Taxi services are readily available from Nanaimo Airport (YCD), Departure Bay or Duke Point for Nanaimo departures, or Victoria Airport (YYJ) or Swartz Bay Terminal for Sidney departures. Contact information for taxi companies is provided to you before your tour, should you need to call the taxi upon your arrival. At the end of your tour your captain will arrange a taxi pick up at the marina to take you to the airport. If you choose to drive, a complimentary parking pass is available from the Van Isle Marina office.
Our schedule is designed to accommodate incoming flights on the day of departure and most guests will arrive on the day. But, if you would like to arrive a little early to avoid the stress of possible flight delays, you will find recommendations for local hotels and activities in your welcome aboard package.
Located in a rain shadow, the Gulf Islands have a very unique semi-Mediterranean climate that keeps the region drier than the rest of the BC coast. Autumn continues to be a mild time of year with beautiful changing colours. Some people view autumn as a drizzly, wet time of year on our coast. Perhaps it is, but as long time explorers, we know that the rains bring waterfalls, salmon to the streams, and fruit to the trees. Plus, in the south, there is often more sun than you would expect. The west coast truly comes alive in autumn. When packing for your trip, consider bringing layers of clothing that you can easily add or remove to adjust to changing temperatures. A lightweight waterproof jacket or raincoat is advisable to protect against any potential rainfall. For the most accurate and up-to-date weather information, it’s recommended to check local forecasts or consult reliable weather websites before your trip.
During the fall season, migrating birds stop on the beaches on their journey south along the Pacific Flyway. Spawning salmon congregate among the islands before running up the mighty Fraser River, and marine mammals including seals, sea lions and orcas feast on the plenty. Exploring the islands’ trails and shorelines might also reveal other fascinating creatures like deer, raccoons, and various marine species. It’s important to remember that even with the local knowledge of our guiding crew, sightings of specific wildlife are never a guarantee. Visit with an open mind and see what fascinating wildlife the Gulf Islands has to offer.
Absolutely. We encourage our guests to participate in any aspect of the trip that interests them and to whatever level they are comfortable with. We are patient instructors (no yelling) and delight in helping people learn. On the other hand, you are not required to sail or perform duties while on your vacation. The choice is yours.
