Skippered Charters exploring Coastal British Columbia, Canada
Skippered Charters exploring Coastal British Columbia, Canada
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Vancouver Island Like?
Vancouver Island is the largest island off the west
coast of North America. Tucked against the mainland coast of British
Columbia and the north shore of Washington State's Olympic Peninsula,
Vancouver Island occupies an area about the size of Holland. It
stretches 500 kilometres (320 miles) southeast to northwest with an
area of 3,175,000 hectares (9,493,171 acres) and 3,460.0896 kilometres
(2,150 miles) of coastline. It is separated from Vancouver, BC by the
Strait of Georgia to the east and from Washington State, by the Strait
of Juan de Fuca to the south and southeast. Vancouver Island is
actually closer to the United States than to mainland west coast
Canada.
A mountainous spine with peaks rising to 7,200 feet runs the length of
Vancouver Island, breaking into long mountain fjords on its west coast
that cut deeply into the island. Alberni Inlet cuts more than halfway
through the island, ending at the community of Port Alberni. Saanich
Inlet, in the Victoria area, is one of the few fjord inlets on
Vancouver Island's east coast. Along its southern half, the relief is
so rugged that the Malahat Mountain section of the Island Highway
climbs to an elevation of more than 335 metres (1,099 feet) above the
inlet's waters.
The west coast of the island is mostly uninhabited, except for a
sprinkling of small communities, notably Ucluelet and Tofino, located
on either side of the world renowned Pacific Rim National Park. The
open Pacific Ocean washes up against its shores. Pockets of sandy
beach add to its rugged beauty and attract visitors from around the
world. While Vancouver Island’s west coast is mostly uninhabited, the
Island’s major settlements and roads are mainly clustered on its east
coast, where the ocean is protected. Lush forests of large Douglas Fir
and cedar thrive in the moderate, wet ocean climate across the Island.
Bareboat Chartering or Skippered Charter?
Bareboat and skippered charters both have advantages, but from what my guests tell me, skippered charters such as ours take the pressure and responsibility off the crew. I have had very experienced sailors aboard with their families and they enjoy the fact that they can spend more time with their loved ones and less time issuing orders and stressing over the sometimes complicated navigation required in B.C.'s coastal waters. Takuli III also has more than adequate anchor gear and my experience with anchoring on this coast allows me to pick our anchorages appropriate for the weather conditions. My knowledge of local weather patterns and how they relate to the tidal streams makes out trips run smoother and safer. Other charterers want to cruise this area in their own boat but really enjoy sailing with a knowledgeable person their first time through. When bare boating, extra expenses such as insurance, fuel, the cost and hassle of provisioning, extra charges for bedding, food, dinghy outboard, and of course a damage deposit ranging into the thousands of dollars make bare boating daunting for people new to these waters. Bareboat companies always dive the boats on their return to inspect for damage caused due to the frequent groundings that unfortunately happen. As licensed captain aboard Takuli III, all these responsibilities are mine.
On board Takuli, I provision for the trip and will shop according to your needs. Everything is on board that we may need, from music and books, fishing gear and crab and shrimp traps, to kayaks, motorized inflatable and rowing/sailing dinghy. I have an extensive library onboard to do with everything "West Coast" that we may encounter. I also have knowledge of many of the islands and other boats we may encounter, and I enjoy sharing my local knowledge with you.
What should I bring?
Our temperate climate has a temperature range of 10 to 25 degrees C. (50 to 80 Fahrenheit). Even on warm summer days the wind can be cool so it is best to wear an insulating layer under a wind/water resistant windbreaker. Waterproof shoes are an advantage for getting to and exploring shorelines. We have an assortment of gumboots you are welcome to use, ask us if we have your size or bring your own, we have a boot locker. On deck, running shoes or deck shoes are the best, these are non marking if white soled. Swimming suit, towel and toiletries, shorts, hat, sunglasses, slippers for below decks, and casual clothing you are comfortable in are perfect for sailing and hiking. We supply comfy pillows and all the bedding you need is on board. If you have a favourite drink or sweet treat bring them with you, it is your holiday! Also, bring some music with you to share, we have a CD player on board. There are lots of books on board or bring along a good novel.
What kinds of wildlife might we see?
The coastlines we sail are rich with life. Depending on
the time of year, sea mammals you might see include Orca, Grey
Whales, Harbor Porpoises, Dahl’s Porpoises, White-sided Dolphins, Sea
Otters, River Otters, Harbor Seals, and Sea Lions.
On land you have the opportunity to see Minks, Otters, Black-tailed Deer,
and Raccoons. As we journey northward it becomes increasingly likely to find
coastal Wolves, Black Bears and Grizzlies.
There are too many feathered friends to list. The Bald Eagle is often a
daily visitor. Other favorites of ours include Osprey, Oyster Catchers, Marbled Murrelettes, Scoters, and
Cormorants. Kayaks and when rowing the dinghy, allows us the unique advantage of near silence
while viewing and photographing wildlife.
What is the weather like?
The Gulf Islands are known for their sunny summer days. Temperatures range from 50°-80° F in the spring, summer, and fall, and average 40°-50° F in the winter months. It’s not called a temperate rain forest for nothing! Temperatures are usually in the 60s throughout our sailing season there. You will likely encounter a mix of sunshine and rain during your trip, but you will stay warm and dry in our enclosed pilothouse.
What time of year should I sail?
It depends on what you are looking for. April and May display an incredible abundance of spring flowers. Some areas are particularly spectacular with color at this time. The sunniest and warmest months of the year are July, August, and September. October through March offers the best sailing wind and the most quiet privacy in anchorages. We have had incredible trips in December/January! With our heating systems and all-weather pilothouse this time of year can be a peaceful and comfortable experience.
What if I get seasick?
Nearly all of the waters we sail in are well protected. Most people who are concerned about seasickness are pleasantly surprised that its not an issue for them on our trips. However, some of our trips involve making short passages that can occasionally get rough. We recommend you speak with your doctor or pharmacist regarding appropriate motion sickness medication. In our experience for mild queasiness, the acupressure wrist bands, ginger tea or crystallized ginger (which we have on board), and staying above decks can be of great help.
Are children welcome?
Absolutely! It can be an exciting educational experience for them. There are many activities to keep them occupied, and enough new and exiting experiences to keep them talking about their trip for a long time. Just looking through the fishing tackle box can keep a 5 year old occupied for about an hour a day! They also like to watch the fish finder and look through the "bring 'em nears" (binoculars). Sailing and boating in general is a great way for a family to bond without the distractions that normally occur with everyday living.
What is a crewed charter?
It’s a cruise that includes a captain that takes care of all shipboard duties including safe navigation, local knowledge of choice attractions, and meals and cleaning. You can do as much or as little as you like. Many guests enjoy helping in the galley or on deck and are encouraged to do so. Extra time can be spent ashore without worrying about the boat.
Do I need to be in good shape?
The level of activity varies depending on the trip. However, anyone who can get in and out of the dingy and go for short walks will do fine. I have had guests enjoy trips when well into their eighties.
What does your trip include?
All onboard meals, snacks and beverages. We have an excellent reference library on all things West Coast and well as sailing and general interest books. We also have a cd player aboard with a variety of music available. Your cabin includes a soft foam bed with pillow and bedding. Hand soap is provided. A shower is also available. You are welcome to use the inflatable, rowing/sailing dinghy or double kayak. Bring a B.C. fishing license along and try your luck.
How often do we get off the boat?
We have at least one and most often more shore side explorations per day. In the Gulf Islands many forest trails, beaches, and country roads await us. There are strenuous trails up as high as you would like to climb, or pleasant seaside explorations to discover the ocean wildlife. You can spend several hours a day ashore exploring.
What areas do you charter in?
Our scheduled tours focus in Central British Columbia and the Gulf Islands. Jedediah Island in a peaceful and beautiful island with excellent vistas and kayaking/walking opportunities. Desolation Sound is on the wilder side with little signs of habitation. Princess Louisa as well with mountainous granite rock walls. The Gulf Islands and Howe Sound have settlements and small towns/villages to visit as well as peaceful anchorages. Please see our schedule. Any time you don’t see a scheduled trip the boat is open and available, so don’t hesitate to inquire.
What if I am traveling solo?
We have one private double stateroom onboard with the rest being single berths, one with a privacy curtain and desk. All available on a first come basis for a maximum of six guests.
Can you take more than six passengers?
By Coast Guard regulation, we can only take up to six guests. This is a comfortable number for Takuli III if booking as a group. I will guarantee a trip with only two guests aboard if that is all that sign up.
Do I need to know how to sail?
No. Many of my guests have never sailed or been on a sailboat before. However, you are welcome to participate at any time for your own enjoyment. The captain is a former sailing instructor, and will help you with your sailing skills. By the end of the trip you may just be ready for more adventures. I have had many repeat guests over the years, some as many as three times. I have also had experienced sailors enjoy our trips. They know how much is involved in sailing safely at a new destination, learning the tides, currents and local weather. Sailing aboard Takuli III gives them the confidence to become familiar with the area and comfortably charter a bareboat on their next visit.