Autumn Adventures in British Columbia
September to October
In the fall, we journey to one of Earth’s most spectacular natural regions, the Great Bear Rainforest, and later into the parts of Desolation Sound and the Gulf Islands that most people don’t get to see, as we island-hop in the company of whales and sea lions.
Each year as salmon return to their natal streams to spawn, coastal bears come out of the forest and into the estuaries to feed on the plenty. While mainly solitary animals, coastal bears display amazing interactions during the fall salmon runs. This occurs every season and is a crucial time for the bears as they build up their fat reserves before winter hibernation. Tours to see these foraging bears are led by our crew who are certified bear viewing guides. This is the only time of year with an opportunity to see the elusive Spirit Bear.
Fall Highlights
The start of autumnal showers are an unwelcome sight for some. Here on the coast of BC, they bring extraordinary wildlife events.
Safaris in the Great Bear Rainforest
On this safari, salmon are the wildebeest that attract the megafauna: orcas, bears, wolves and eagles. The coast’s intricate channels and creeks are the Serengeti plain.
Land Of The Spirit Bear
Experience the magic of the spirit bear, thought to be the rarest bear in the world, in its natural habitat. Only seen during the fall months.
The Stunning Waterways of Desolation Sound
One of the world’s most popular cruising destinations. We have the place to ourselves to enjoy whales and seabirds, forests, beaches and if lucky, a coastal bear.
Cruise The Gulf Islands In Autumn
Island hop the national park during its harvest season. Special culinary adventures invite you to discover the west coast’s vibrant wine or craft beer scene.
What People Say
See what previous guests have to say about our trips in the Fall.
Destinations
Embark this fall on remarkable journeys along the BC coastline.
Whales and Wild Isles of the Great Bear Rainforest
View ItineraryEmbark on a summer expedition across one of the richest coastal ecosystems in the world.
Wines and Islands
View ItineraryExperience Vancouver Island and the Gulf Islands’ emerging wine regions.
Desolation Sound and Fjords of BC
View ItineraryThis journey among the islands and fjords of the storied British Columbia coast includes Desolation Sound and the Broughton Archipelago, as well as neighbouring inlets.
Gulf Islands in Fall
View ItineraryIsland hop in the National Park Reserve, visit wildlife colonies, walk rainforest and rocky bluffs, and tiny islands not visited by ferries.
Great Bear Rainforest
View ItineraryFollow magnificent runs of wild salmon to the home of black, grizzly, and the elusive white-furred spirit bear.
Whales and Totems
View ItineraryExplore intricate passageways between idyllic islands in the Broughton Archipelago, one of the best places on earth to see whales.
Great Bear Rainforest and Kitlope
View ItineraryBird migrations, newly awakened grizzly and black bears grazing on green sedges—experience it all on a small ship adventure.
Stories From The Coast
Follow our coastal expeditions with notes from the field.
