LIONS OF THE SALISH SEA

4 days / 3 nights. 

Sea lions are playful, curious, and engaging. Their acrobatic displays make for a once-in-a-lifetime interaction. The Steller Sea Lions in British Columbia take the cake. They are like gigantic puppies. Stellers are inquisitive, with so much very close eye contact - every dive is a moving experience. 

ITINERARY

Subject to change due to weather / animal behaviour

DAY 1

Fly into Vancouver International Airport. Pick up vehicle and ferry to Vancouver Island. Check into AirBnB. Meet up with the rest of the crew for late dinner and a pre-departure briefing.  

Alternate: Fly directly into Nanaimo International Airport (YCD).

DAY 2

Cast off from the marina at 9am aboard a 32-foot dive vessel, exploring the Salish Sea.  We will do 2 dives in drysuits with Stellar Sea Lions. Snorkel / Freediving is also an option.

DAY 3

After breakfast, we have the option to hit the water again with the sea lions or go exploring - visiting and old growth rain forest, hiking waterfalls, or caving.

DAY 4

Ferry from Departure Bay, Nanaimo to Horseshoe Bay, Vancouver

Fly home from Vancouver International Airport (YVR) or fly home directly from Nanaimo International Airport (YCD)

GETTING THERE

Fly into Vancouver International Airport (YVR) anytime before 3pm on Day 1.

Alternatively, you can fly directly into Nanaimo International Airport (YCD)

SALISH SEA


The Salish Sea is a vibrant and ecologically diverse marine ecosystem nestled between the southwestern coast of Canada's British Columbia and the northwestern coast of the United States' Washington state. Named after the Indigenous Coast Salish peoples who have called this region home for thousands of years, the Salish Sea encompasses a vast network of intricate waterways, including the Strait of Georgia, Puget Sound, and the Strait of Juan de Fuca. It is a place of remarkable natural beauty and serves as a crucial habitat for a multitude of marine species.

With its intricate network of channels, bays, and inlets, the Salish Sea supports a rich biodiversity. Its waters are teeming with marine life, including iconic species such as orcas, humpback whales, salmon, and rockfish. Seabirds, seals, sea lions, and other fascinating creatures also call this region home. The Salish Sea serves as a vital feeding ground, breeding site, and migratory pathway for these species, making it an integral part of their life cycle.

However, the Salish Sea is not without its challenges. Pollution, habitat degradation, declining salmon populations, and the impacts of climate change pose threats to its delicate balance. Efforts are underway by scientists, conservationists, and local communities to protect and restore this remarkable ecosystem. Through research, education, and collaborative conservation initiatives, there is hope for the long-term sustainability and preservation of the Salish Sea, ensuring its ecological integrity for future generations to come.

EXPEDITION VESSEL

We will be cruising the Salish Sea in a 2019 Merry Fischer 795 with a 115HP Yamaha motor.

DIVE GEAR

If you plan to enter the water, bring your own dive gear. A good polar wetsuit (at least 7mm) or drysuit, dive weights, mask fins, and snorkel.

Polosub makes a custom 9.5mm Smooth Skin wetsuit to your measurements for 351,00€ and ships in 4-6 weeks.

High Visibility Polar Hood
Lightweight Drysuit
Neoprene Gloves

COLD WATER DIVING

These videos are a great resource to learn more about cold water diving and wetsuits.

 

INSURANCE

It is strongly recommended to carry Extended Medical Insurance, Emergency Evacuation Insurance, and Trip Cancellation Insurance.

DETAILS / COST

AIRBnB:
https://www.airbnb.ca/rooms/631785004114514084

COSTS:
Full Day Boat Charter + 2 Tank Scuba dive: $75 USD / day
Full Gear Rental: (Dry Suit, tanks, weights, mask, fins, BCD): $70 USD (1 day) / $105 USD (2 days)
AirBnB: $50 USD / day
Car Rental: Approx $15/Day pp
Ferry: Approx $30 pp for car and passenger

APPROX TOTAL: $450 for 4 dives ($340 for 2 dives), boat charter, accommodation, and transportation.