British Columbia Coastline
Along the ruggedly beautiful coast of British Columbia, Canada, you can access some of the most pristine and scenic places in the world – but only by sea. Smaller, 100 foot, private vessels, (rather than huge cruise ships), offer you charter passage to these secluded bays and islands, where whales sing in the sheltered waters of their ancestral feeding grounds, bears wander the shores as they have for centuries, and eagles soar above the towering cedars of the temperate rainforest.
Perhaps the most memorable adventures are now available on refurbished former navy supply vessels that ply the British Columbia coastal waters. These vessels are rare but they offer the comforts and capacity to meet the needs of everyone from eco adventurers to research expeditions. Passage on board such vessels provides a unique way to experience the wonders of this beautiful part of the world. Certain tour operators can even customize a package for your specific requirements.
One such adventure that is sure to be a life-long memory is a cruise to Princess Louisa Inlet. This spectacular destination is legendary amongst those fortunate enough to travel there. It is 46 miles from the cruise ship water way of Georgia Strait, through the fabulous scenery of Desolation Sound. Thousands of cruising passengers pass by this jewel on their way to Alaska, hundreds of miles away. Many of them may be lucky enough to see the tranquil opening of the sound but cannot venture there as no large ships make the turn. Instead, private vessels take passengers through the narrow fjord in the coastal mountains. At the final Reach, Malibu Rapids guards the secret entrance to Princess Louisa Inlet.
Just a half mile wide and 5 miles long, Princess Louisa Inlet is surrounded by black cliffs that were scoured clean by thousands of winter snows. Myriads of waterfalls tumble to the sea. The waters are crystal clean, deep and calm. A magical mood commands the whole inlet regardless of the weather. Chatterbox Falls is the crowning jewel at the head of the inlet. This is Beautiful BC at its best!
Captain George Vancouver visited this area in 1792 and named it “Desolation Sound” saying “there was not a single prospect that was pleasing to the eye”. In fact, the area today looks much like it did to Captain Vancouver. There are still no roads, no airstrips, no factories, no pollution and few houses or other signs of humanity. Vessels traveling to Princess Louisa Inlet must bring their own supplies, (excepting for seafood), since there are also no malls, restaurants or stores of any kind. While the desolation shocked Vancouver, it gives travellers today a welcome break from ordinary civilization. They don’t see desolation but rather unspoiled beauty, pristine waters, majestic grizzly or kermode bears, eagles and other natural animals. They see isolated peaks, many of which have never been climbed by man. This is an area that time has passed by, one that only a handful of people will ever experience.
The coastal waters of British Columbia, Canada attract visitors from around the world eager to experience the diversity and unique beauty of a still natural environment. Smaller private vessels provide an unparalleled opportunity to experience the beauty of this region in comfort. Exploring local history and visiting with killer whales, seals, bears and eagles in amazingly remote environments just 50 or 60 miles from urban centers truly reveals the land before time.
Dorothy Whittome
http://www.songhee.ca
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