Points of Interest
Ports
Cruise the Gulf Islands in Spring
Delve Into an Odyssey Through Geologic and Human Timescales
Walk through wildflower meadows, historic homesteads, and beautiful beaches this spring in the Gulf Islands, BC. Home to southern resident killer whales and many marine birds, seals, and sea lions- enjoy ample wildlife viewing and possible whale watching. Sail among eclectic island communities, under spring skies, and over sparkling waters.
Some people think they’ve “done” the Salish Sea or Gulf Islands if they’ve visited Victoria and Salt Spring Island. They’ve seen only the tiniest, most human-impacted snippet. Our trips leave off where the road ends, alongside sculpted sandstone shorelines, moist rainforests and eagles soaring along rocky bluffs. You’ll learn of Canada’s history in the region, and a history that’s existed far longer, the Coast Salish, as well as the diverse natural history.
View Special Offers For This Trip: Solo Traveller, Flight Credits
Itinerary Details
- Ships: Maple Leaf or Swell
- Duration: 5 Days
- Ports: Sidney
- Includes a Canadian Geographic Itinerary
Solo Traveller Special
We’re waving the single supplement!
Don’t miss this great opportunity for solo travellers, in their own cabin with no single supplement, to discover the rich indigenous culture and natural wonder of the BC coast!
Qualifying Trips
Craft Beer CruiseDesolation Sound & Fjords of BCDesolation Sound in SpringGreat Bear RainforestHaida GwaiiSalish Sea ExpeditionWhales & Wild IslesWines & IslandsTerms and Conditions
Available on select sailings only as designated by Maple Leaf Adventures. Subject to availability (there are limits on the number of bookings on some sailings); on Cascadia available for category 1 cabins only; on Swell available for category 1 or 2 cabins only with limited availability. May not be combined with any other offer except pay-in-full and standard back-to-back trips offers. Eligible trips: Salish Sea Expedition with Canadian Geographic Apr 18-22 MV Swell; Desolation Sound Apr 25-29, Apr 30-May 4 MV Swell; Des Sound May 1-5 MV Cascadia; Haida Gwaii May 9-16, May 16-23 MV Cascadia; W&WI Jul 28-Aug 5, Aug 6-14, Aug 16-20 MV Cascadia; Great Bear Rainforest Aug 29-Sep 5 and Oct 9-16 MV Cascadia; Des Sound & Fjords of BC Oct 20-27 MV Cascadia; Des Sound & Fjords of BC Oct 19-26 MV Swell; Craft Beer Cruise Oct 27-31 MV Swell; Wines & Islands Oct 29-Nov 2 MV Cascadia.
Spring Fling 1-Way Flight Promotion 2025
Come rejoice in the sounds and sights of spring! Book one of these sailings by the November 30, 2024 deadline and get a $225 credit on your fare per person.
Book one of these sailings by November 30, 2024 and get a $225 credit deducted from your fare per person.
Qualifying Trips
Desolation Sound in SpringGulf Islands in SpringVancouver Island to Great Bear RainforestVancouver Island's Inside PassageTerms and Conditions
You must book and pay for your deposit by the offer expiry date to qualify. – Offer not transferable to other dates and is not redeemable for cash or credit toward another trip. – Offer not valid with any other promotions or special offers, except pay in full offer and standard back-to-back trip offer. Eligible trips: Salish Sea Expedition, Apr 18-22, MV Swell Gulf Islands Spring, Apr 22-26, SV Maple Leaf Desolation Sound, May 1-5 MV Cascadia Desolation Sound, Apr 25-29, Apr 30-May 4, MV Swell Desolation Sound, Apr 29-May 3, SV Maple Leaf Vancouver Island to Great Bear Rainforest, May 9-17, SV Maple Leaf Vancouver Island Inside Passage, May 10-17, MV Swell
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 tours.
Highlights
Experience Hundreds of Islands off the Ferry Route
Hopping between eclectic towns and remote, wild islands.
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 Victoria Airport (YYJ) or Swartz Bay Terminal when you arrive. The Marina in Sidney is a short 10 minute drive from the airport or ferry terminal. 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 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.
In the spring, the Gulf Islands experience milder and more temperate weather compared to many other parts of Canada. With its coastal location, the Gulf Islands enjoy relatively warmer temperatures and pleasant conditions during this season. However, it’s important to note that weather patterns can vary, and it’s always a good idea to come prepared for changes in temperature and possible rainfall. Layering clothing and having a waterproof outer layer is recommended to ensure comfort and enjoyment during your trip.
Spring is a time of rebirth and you can expect to encounter a diverse range of flora and fauna. Keep an eye out for marine mammals such as seals, sea lions, and even orcas that frequent the coastal waters. You may also spot a variety of bird species, including eagles, herons, and seabirds. On land, keep an eye out for deer, raccoons, and other smaller mammals. The Gulf Islands provide a rich habitat for wildlife, making it a fantastic destination for nature enthusiasts and wildlife lovers alike.
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.
