Destination
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Pacific Northwest Coastal Escape 2007
Only a few of these beautiful islands are accessible by ferry. The rest are reserved for adventurous souls who long to leave civilization and all its trappings far behind. In 1791, Captain George Vancouver was one of the first European mariners to record his visit to what is now British Columbia and Washington state, leaving behind a legacy of place names such as Vancouver Island and Mt. Rainier. Come with us and retrace Captain Vancouver's historic voyage, visiting quaint ports, great cities, and remarkable wilderness that has changed little since Vancouver's last visit. |
These secluded islands- the remaining mountaintops of a receding continent- still offer incredible scenery and solitude. Only private yachts and Cruise West's Spirit of Endeavour and Yorktown Spirit can take full advantage of this captivating maze of islands and fjords. You'll see wild shores that have changed little since Captain George Vancouver first explored here in 1791, and navigate scenic, narrow passageways en route to British Columbia's charming Gulf Islands, the colorful logging community of Nanaimo, and Victoria's incomparable Butchart Gardens.
And whether you're exploring the stately British heritage of Victoria or turn-of-the-century Rosario Resort on Orcas Island, our Exploration Leader will give you an insider's view of both the past and the present. Learn how to pronounce "Esquimault," and where to find the best Irish linens and Scottish tweeds in Victoria. Learn the past of Vancouver's Stanley Park, and how the Hudson's Bay Company changed the face of Vancouver Island.
So much history. So much beauty. Come explore the best of the Pacific Northwest with us.
Pacific Northwest Coastal Escape 2007
- Tour Costs From: $2,499 pp
- 8 Days, 7 Nights
- Seattle to Seattle
- Departures: April and September/October, 2007
Day 1 - SAIL FROM SEATTLE
Arrive in Seattle and transfer from the Hospitality area to your ship. Settle in your comfortable stateroom, then step out on deck as you cruise through the Hiram M. Chittenden Locks to Elliott Bay and appreciate the delightful view of Seattle's skyline.
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Day 2 - ARRIVE VANCOUVER
Have time to explore town on your own. An included tour highlights Stanley Park, a lovely old-growth forest that boasts an impressive collection of totem poles, and the Capilano Suspension Bridge. Reboard the ship to sail under the Lion's Gate Bridge, in the shadow of the city's gleaming glass towers. This evening you'll pass through Howe Sound. BLD
Day 3 - EXPLORATION CRUISING
Today's exploration will be wilderness cruising at its best, in waters usually accessible only by private yachtsmen. Explore remote inlets lush with temperate rainforests, streaming with waterfalls and encircled by cliffs. You will have time for exploring wildlife and beautiful, remote nooks in the ancient and dramatic fjords of British Columbia. BLD
Day 4 - NANAIMO, GULF ISLANDS
Nanaimo is surrounded by astonishing views. A cannon booms from the Bastion, an 1853 Hudson's Bay Company fort. Traditionally-dressed constables of the Royal Canadian Mounted Police welcome you from the pier. An included walking tour will show you the Cameron Island Promenade, the Old City Quarter, and the Nanaimo District Museum. Afternoon cruising is through the remote waterways and quiet coves of the lovely Gulf Islands. BLD
Day 5 - SIDNEY / BUTCHART GARDENS / VICTORIA
Dock in Sidney and transfer by motorcoach to the famous Butchart Gardens to walk the lovely pathways that thread around this quarry-turned-world-class showplace. Complete your day in lovely and very British Victoria, with time to relax and explore on your own. Everything is within convenient walking distance from your ship, allowing you to find your own unique experience in British Columbia's capital city. BLD
Day 6 - FRIDAY HARBOR / SAN JUAN ISLANDS MORNING CRUISING
Your Friday Harbor visit includes an island excursion that takes you through this remote and historically contentious island. Experience the local flavor and learn how the U.S. nearly went to war over a pig. Visit Rosario Resort on Orcas Island for an exclusive organ recital on an impressive Aeolian pipe organ.
BLD
Day 7 - CAPTAIN'S CHOICE CRUISING / PORT TOWNSEND
Your relaxing morning of cruising and up-close exploration in Puget Sound will take you in search of remarkable scenery and elusive wildlife. Your Captain and Exploration Leader know the best places to go "gunkholing" or traveling around the the bend just to see what's there. Arrive in Port Townsend for an included walking tour along the waterfront street of this historic Victorian seaport and arts community. Listed on the National Historic Register as one of three such Victorian ports on the entire U.S. coastline, Port Townsend's views and architecture are delightful to see. BLD
Day 8 - DISEMBARK IN SEATTLE
Transfer from your ship to the airport or extend your stay at the Westin Hotel, in the heart of downtown Seattle. B
B=Breakfast L=Lunch D=Dinner
Shore Excursions
- Vancouver- City tour & visit to Capilano Suspension Bridge
- Victoria- Buchart Gardens
- Friday Harbor- Tour of American and English Camps, site of the "Pig War"
- Port Townsend- Historic walking tour
- Nanaimo- Historic walking tour
