Guests on Swell’s maiden voyage with Maple Leaf Adventures, Apr 20-24, will be part of the ship’s blessing ceremony with some very special guests, and will receive commemorative gifts including a special bottle of wine from Saanich as we celebrate putting our new ship into service.
The MV Swell is Maple Leaf Adventures newest ship, a classic converted tugboat. After her decor and sustainability upgrade this winter, her maiden voyage takes place April 20-24, 2015 in remote parts of the Gulf Islands National Park Reserve.
The trip provides a trip of surprising exploration, accessing beautiful islands and islets that are not accessible by ferry. These include wildlife colonies, remote beaches, historic farms, and other areas of natural and cultural significance.
Natural history highlights in mid- to late- April include:
- spring wildflowers (white fawn lilies, pink shooting stars, purple camas, brown chocolate lily)
- congregations of seabirds around upwellings filled with krill and small fish
- flowering heritage fruit trees on old, historic farmsteads
- visits by transient (Biggs) orcas to the Salish sea
- sea lions, seals, river otters, bald eagles, ravens, turkey vultures
- forest songbirds
- mild weather
The gourmet food, expert local naturalist and crew, and plenty of shore explorations that characterize Maple Leaf’s trips are also highlights of this trip on the Swell.
The trip begins with a blessing ceremony and champagne toast by the ship’s new honorary godmothers. These are prominent British Columbians with a relationship to the vessel, and who represent the values of Maple Leaf Adventures: coastal conservation and wildlife, coastal cultures, education, and eco-adventure travel. Following the blessing, the ship will embark from the harbour and the godmothers will cruise with the Swell’s guests before returning to Sidney by zodiac, as the trip continues.
The maiden voyage is open for booking.
Dates: Apr 20-24, 2015, 5 days / 4 nights
Depart: Sidney, BC (just outside Victoria, BC)
Return: Sidney, BC (just outside Victoria, BC)
All-inclusive fare: Category 1 stateroom $2600, Category 2 stateroom $2900
Inquire about the Swell maiden voyage
