Sailing between San Juan Islands and Bella Bella BC
As we head north from the San Juans we begin to enter the enchanted land of the Gulf Islands, with elegantly sculpted sandstone shorelines and white shell beaches. Heading further north we soon behold the majesty of Desolation Sound – thought by many to be the premier yachting destination in the Northwest for its scenic fjords, mountains, warm water, and serene lakes. From there we enter the intricate Broughton Archipelago visiting ancient protected First Nations village sites with totem poles lying on the forest floor, and thousands of years of layered shell midden clearly visible. Then we truly enter the ancient, primal wilderness of the Great Bear Rainforest-the last large stand of coastal temperate rainforest left on the planet. With towering granite peaks, spectacular fjords, lush, untouched cedar forests, and myriads of wildlife, this is a rare nature experience that will indelibly transform you!
For more information, give us a call. 360-622-5878
Tours
INSIDE PASSAGE - Desolation Sound, Broughton Archipelago & Great Bear Rainforest
We will be offering this tour again in late August/early September 2025.
Please use the contact form on this page to let us know you have interest, or have any questions.
Prices are yet to be determined, but will probably be around $5999 per person all inclusive of food and beverages.
Sail with us to where civilization gradually fades astern. Northwest is where we're headed, underneath a golden sky as we begin to get a taste of the wilder side of the North American coast. Natural Hot Springs, 10,000 yr old protected First Nation villages, ancient totem poles, pods of leaping dolphins, Orcas, Humpbacks, Bears, Rain Wolves. These are just some of the highlights on our farthest north tour. This is a true adventure, but with all the creature comforts and safety we've developed from over 20 years of experience with this route.
We pass north through the Inside Passage roughly retracing the route that Captain George Vancouver did in 1792. Much of the area looks the same now as it did then. With each day aboard, you'll feel a deeper connection to the natural world as you let the stresses of everyday land based life melt away.
Sailing aboard the S/V Nawalak is about escaping the crowds, relaxing, and connecting with nature and the sea while exploring the quiet beaches and pristine islands of the northwest. During our tours we share with you the gems and secrets we’ve discovered in our 30+ years of sailing these amazing waterways.
Wildlife Watching
As we sail north deep into the homeland of the grizzly, whale, wolf, and salmon we reconnect with nature in its most pure state. From the safety of our vessel, we can immerse ourselves in, and be visitors to their world. Our silent electric-powered dinghy takes us far up little-known rivers wh...
As we sail north deep into the homeland of the grizzly, whale, wolf, and salmon we reconnect with nature in its most pure state. From the safety of our vessel, we can immerse ourselves in, and be visitors to their world. Our silent electric-powered dinghy takes us far up little-known rivers where we can see bears fattening up with salmon and eagles waiting to dive for the scraps. Witness the cycle of nature in this pristine ecosystem.
Visiting Ancient Native Sites
Ancient protected First Nations village sites with totem poles lying on the forest floor, thousands of years of layered shell midden clearly visible, and ancient petroglyphs on granite walls are just some of the experiences we seek out. They are bound to leave an indelible impression.
Ancient protected First Nations village sites with totem poles lying on the forest floor, thousands of years of layered shell midden clearly visible, and ancient petroglyphs on granite walls are just some of the experiences we seek out. They are bound to leave an indelible impression.
Warm Saltwater Swimming
There is a phenomenon that occurs in Desolation Sound that produces exceptionally warm ocean waters. This is due to minimal tidal exchange that allows the sun to heat up the water during the day. Climb the cliffs and dive into emerald green waters, then swim out to our vessel anchored just a sho...
There is a phenomenon that occurs in Desolation Sound that produces exceptionally warm ocean waters. This is due to minimal tidal exchange that allows the sun to heat up the water during the day. Climb the cliffs and dive into emerald green waters, then swim out to our vessel anchored just a short distance away. Swing out over the water from a line attached to the top of our 60ft mast and let go! Your own personal amusement ride in nature.
Excellent Sailing
As we travel north of Vancouver Island, we enter the true realm of adventure sailing. Depending on the weather and wind, we can choose to stay in protected waters in the Inside Passage or venture out into Hecate Strait for some open ocean excitement. We cater each trip to the expectations and co...
As we travel north of Vancouver Island, we enter the true realm of adventure sailing. Depending on the weather and wind, we can choose to stay in protected waters in the Inside Passage or venture out into Hecate Strait for some open ocean excitement. We cater each trip to the expectations and comfort level of our guests.
Sailing Is The Best Way To Relax And Connect With Nature
Relax and enjoy the ride as you take in the stunning scenery and wildlife of the San Juan Islands. Our crew will make sure you have a safe and enjoyable experience while sailing the San Juan Islands.