Autumn cruise aboard the Cascadia

Explore the wild and remote regions of the central coast of British Columbia on a Great Bear Rainforest tour in the Autumn. The fall months bring the return of the salmon and with it a feeding frenzy to be witnessed. Whales, marine mammals, marine birds, bears and more all gather in this region to feast on the bountiful salmon that have returned to spawn in the rivers. This is the best chance to witness the rare spirit bear at a salmon stream or see a mother grizzly teach her cub how to catch a salmon in a major river estuary.

Great Bear Rainforest tours set out to explore fjordlands, remote islands, river estuaries, and west coast beaches. Get to know the intricate and complex temperate rainforest and the species that thrive here, with expert guides and an informative naturalist whose knowledge of the natural history will be shared with you.

Embark on an extraordinary experience in the heart of the wild landscapes of the British Columbia coast. These lands are home to unspoilt nature and exceptional wildlife. The Swell cruise ship, with only 24 passengers, opens up horizons inaccessible to large ships, for an authentic and personalised journey.

Thanks to special permits and collaboration with the First Nations, you’ll discover unspoilt areas and share unique moments with the locals. Each member of the crew is passionate about this region and will be delighted to help you discover the many facets of the coastline.

If you’re looking for an immersive experience, far removed from traditional cruises and urban distractions, this is the trip for you. Let the friendly and experienced team, guide you on an unforgettable adventure that combines exploration, conviviality and respect for nature.

DAY 1

• Boarding the Cascadia in Haisla territory, cruising to evening anchorage, watching for whales.
• Evening rainforest walk before dinner.

DAY 2

• Crossing into Hennaksiala territory, with traditions and stories of our mentor, Killer Whale Clan elder Wa’xaid (Cecil Paul)
• Cruising down a spectacular fjord, where granite mountains rise from thousands of feet below the sea.
• Viewing waterfalls and possible mountain goats.
• Exploring estuary meadows, where grizzly bears spend their days in the autumn.
• Optional evening kayaking.

DAY 3

• Grizzly bear viewing among the fjords.
• Learning the Indigenous history and stories of special sites in the region.
• Cruising the Great Bear’s Island channels.

DAY 4

• Visit island known as the epicentre of spirit bears with Gitga’at guides.
• Full day at viewing site for the best opportunity to view a spirit bear.

DAY 5

• Morning shore exploration in estuary.
• Cruising Whale Channel region, a critical habitat for several species of whales. Marine mammal viewing.
• Visit whale researchers at remote station.
• Island anchorage.

DAY 6

• Visit the Great Bear Rainforest’s wild outer islands and beaches, with hike to views.
• Kayaking, possible wolf sighting.
• Cruising to and exploring archipelago of tiny islands, some areas so wild they’re not yet charted.
• Seabird viewing.

DAY 7

• Cruising inner channels.
• Rainforest shore trip.
• Visit natural hot springs for a soak.
• Last night dinner in natural anchorage.

DAY 8

• Cruise to Kitimats’s port (British Columbia), watching for wildlife.

THE BOAT

The Cascadia, elegant, robust and perfectly suited to exploring the wildest coastlines of British Columbia, is specially designed for top-of-the-range cruising. This expedition catamaran offers an ideal balance between comfort, performance and respect for the environment.

With 12 luxurious cabins for up to 24 passengers and a dedicated crew of 10, Cascadia promises an exclusive and intimate experience. Lightweight and spacious, it stands out for its ability to navigate the most secluded coves and offer privileged access to the region’s natural treasures.

Its unique design encourages an experience on a human scale, respectful of fragile ecosystems and coastal communities. On board, every moment is designed to immerse you fully in the richness and wild beauty of the coast.