Discover the magic of Maple Leaf Adventures’ Wines and Islands cruise, where world-class wine meets pristine wilderness in British Columbia’s Southern Gulf Islands.
Imagine yourself sipping world-class wine while surrounded by pristine wilderness—this is the magic of Maple Leaf Adventures’ Wines and Islands cruise. Recently named one of the top 10 wine cruises in North America, this 5-day/4-night off-the-beaten track adventure takes you beyond the typical wine tour, combining exclusive vineyard visits with a wild coastal expedition through British Columbia’s Southern Gulf Islands and Vancouver Island.
While the Wines and Islands cruise covers wines from around British Columbia—including highlights from the Okanagan and Similkameen regions—it’s a unique way to explore the diverse wines from the up-and-coming Wine Islands and Cowichan regions, and meet the inventive winemakers behind them. Situated at the same latitude as Champagne, France, these regions are becoming known for their delightful sparkling wines, acidic marine whites and even layered Pinot Noir. Unlike other wine regions, these laid-back islands have also avoided the summer forest fires that have impacted vineyards elsewhere, making them a serene alternative for wine enthusiasts.
Photo: Alina Andrushko
Delight your senses as you sip coastal wines while surrounded by the autumnal vineyards on Salt Spring Island, a perfect introduction to BC’s Wine Islands.
1. Kutatas Winery – Salt Spring Island
The adventure kicks off with a private winemaker lunch with Kutatas Winery on Salt Spring Island. As you sip their handcrafted coastal wines, you’ll enjoy panoramic views of the island’s vineyards and surrounding natural beauty. This exclusive tasting with owner Daniel Draggert – likely including their sought-after dry-farmed Pinot Noir and Ortega – is a perfect introduction to the distinctive flavors of Gulf Island wines, including one of the finest Salt Spring wineries.
Photo: Kevin Smith
Handcrafted coastal wines from Kutatas Winery on Salt Spring Island including their renowned dry-farmed Pinot Noir and Méthode Traditionnelle sparkling.
2. Zanatta Winery – Cowichan / Glenora Valley, Vancouver Island
As your cruise sails through the Salish Sea, you’ll experience the Cowichan / Glenora Valley, home to some of the best wineries Vancouver Island has to offer. Zanatta Winery is famous for its collection of single-estate sparkling wines, crafted to perfection in this cool-climate region. Zanatta, in a beautiful pastoral setting, is a highlight for those seeking to explore the island’s rich wine culture.
Photo: Maureen Gordon
Stroll through the autumnal vineyards of Zanatta Winery, where the picturesque Cowichan Valley provides the perfect backdrop for an unforgettable wine tasting experience.
3. Blue Grouse Estate Winery – Cowichan / Glenora Valley, Vancouver Island
Also in the Cowichan / Glenora Valley, Blue Grouse Estate Winery offers an immersive tasting experience with its sustainably produced wines. A personally guided tour by the winemaker includes aromatic whites and bold reds, Blue Grouse perfectly expresses the cool coastal climate in every bottle. This stunning, sustainably designed location is a key highlight for anyone interested in discovering Vancouver Island wineries and the natural beauty of the region.
Photo: Maureen Gordon
Rows of grapevines basking in the sunlight at Blue Grouse Estate Winery, one of the gems of Vancouver Island’s Cowichan Valley. The perfect setting for tasting sustainably produced wines in a serene environment.
4. Unsworth Vineyards – Cowichan Valley, Vancouver Island
Unsworth Vineyards provides a special winemaker dinner with a member of the vineyard’s founding family aboard Cascadia, where you’ll sample their award-winning Pinot Noir and coastal blends, paired with a gourmet meal. The combination of fine dining and coastal cruising makes this experience one of the standout moments of the trip, offering a perfect example of wine tours BC that seamlessly blend nature and luxury.
Photo: Kayleen Vanderee
Enjoy a glass of wine while taking in the breathtaking sunset views aboard Cascadia, following a special winemaker dinner hosted by Unsworth Vineyards.
5. Sea Star Vineyards – Pender Island
As you sail into the heart of the Gulf Islands, you’ll arrive at Sea Star Vineyards on Pender Island for a private winemaker lunch. Sea Star’s popular, vibrant whites and reds are perfectly complemented by the stunning oceanfront setting, making this stop a favorite for those looking to experience the unique terroir of the Southern Gulf Islands and one of the region’s best-kept wine secrets. It’s also close to one of our favourite marine parks where we explore pretty beaches that are Indigenous white-shell middens, the rainforest and scenic views, it’s a favourite location for pre- and post-tasting exploration by kayak and foot.
Photo: Kevin Smith
Barrels of handcrafted coastal wines at Sea Star Vineyards, where the vibrant whites and reds are as refreshing as the ocean views that surround this Pender Island gem.
6. Sage Hayward Vineyards – Saturna Island
An exciting small-boat ride through scenic narrows and island-studded channels takes you to Sage Hayward Vineyards on Saturna Island, where your final tasting awaits. Disembarking at the dock, you’ll either walk or get a ride through a picturesque dry forest and pasture, eventually emerging onto a stunning slope under a mountain. This slope offers breathtaking views across the vineyards to a sparkling sea and the rugged, dry islands beyond. Here, you’ll savour wines produced in one of BC’s most remarkable Mediterranean-like climates.
Saturna’s rocky outcroppings and arid landscape create a truly unique terroir, making Sage Hayward a must-visit Saturna winery. The wines here are as wild and distinct as the island itself – layered, vibrant and rich with the essence of this extraordinary place.
Photo: BC Wine Institute
Discover Sage Hayward Vineyard on Saturna Island, where breathtaking views and distinct wines come together to create a something truly remarkable.
Beyond the Wine—Explore the Wild Beauty of the National Park Reserve
But this cruise isn’t just about wine—it’s also an immersive exploration of the wild coastlines and remote islands that make the Southern Gulf Islands National Park Reserve so special. As you sail between tasting stops, you’ll have the chance to kayak through hidden bays, hike along pristine beaches, and explore ancient forests teeming with wildlife.
Photo: Greg Shea
Bald eagles soar overhead, a symbol of the wild beauty and freedom you’ll experience on this memorable Wines and Islands cruise through the Gulf Islands.
The cruise takes you to outer islands like Tumbo and Cabbage, where bald eagles soar overhead, seals and otters play in the waters, and you can discover ancient midden sites of the Coast Salish people. These islands are rarely visited, offering a unique glimpse into a protected ecosystem that few have the chance to explore. You’ll sail through the biologically rich Tumbo Channel, past rocky bluffs and scenic viewpoints, all while soaking in the fresh sea air.
Photo: Kevin Smith
Guests aboard Cascadia enjoy the thrill of dolphins playing in the ship’s wake as they explore the remote islands of British Columbia.
This combination of adventure and luxury, of wild nature, refined wine, and fine dining all aboard a luxurious catamaran, sailing through the Salish Sea, makes Maple Leaf Adventures’ all-inclusive Wines and Islands cruise a truly one-of-a-kind experience.
Special Offer for Solo Travellers
For a limited time, we’re waiving the single supplement for solo travellers on our October Wines and Islands cruise! Whether you’re a solo adventurer or a wine enthusiast, this is the perfect opportunity to indulge in BC’s best wines and breathtaking landscapes.
Ready to sail into a world of wine and wilderness? Call us today at +1-250-386-7245 or 1-888-599-5323 to reserve your spot this October and take advantage of our special solo traveler offer!
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