Explore the Queen Charlotte Islands, a place where you can set your own pace and savour the unique experience these islands have to offer. The misty islands of the Queen Charlotte archipelago (called Haida Gwaii by the Haida people) are nearly 300 km long and located 100 km off the northwest coast of British Columbia. The two main islands, Graham Island in the north and Moresby in the south, are divided by Skidgate Channel and separated from mainland BC by Hecate Strait.
Haida Gwaii, or “islands of the people” have developed in isolation from the rest of the province, spared the effects of the ice age that covered the rest of BC until 15,000 years ago. As a result, the virgin rainforests, wetlands, sand dunes, beaches, rugged mountains, streams and lakes of the Queen Charlottes nurture an extensive population of plants and animals that exist nowhere else on Earth. In fact, because of so many unique life forms have developed, the islands are referred to as Canada’s Galapagos.
Day 1 Arrive to Prince Rupert
All fly-in passengers arrive to Prince Rupert today. Transfer independently to our hotel for the night. Meet your tour director in the lobby at 7 PM for a tour briefing.
Day 2 Prince Rupert to The Queen Charlotte Islands 3 Nts, B, L, D
Travelling via the BC Ferry service from Prince Rupert we cross Hectate Straight to reach the Queen Charlotte Islands. The total 150 islands stretch some 300 km parallel to BC’s coastline. The crossing takes about 6.5 hours so take the time to relax and take in the scenery as we travel to one the last remaining ecological and cultural enclaves of Canada’s Haida Nation.
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Day 3 The Queen Charlotte Islands — Skidegate B, L, D
A local interpretive guide accompanies us for a visit to Port Clements and an active forestry area. Forestry is an economic mainstay of the islands and today you’ll also visit the forestry museum and learn about the history and present conditions of the industry. Visit the Haida Gwaii Museum in Skidegate this afternoon. Return to Queen Charlotte City to enjoy a traditional Haida meal this evening in the company of local Haida residents.
 Day 4 Graham Island, New Massett B, L, D
Today we travel to the north end of Graham Island with a local guide where we visit the villages of Old Massett and New Massett. The Haida are renowned for their seafaring culture, their beautiful artwork and of course, theirfamous totem poles. Belived to have inhabited the islands for at least 10,000 years, they conducted trade all along the Canadian west coast. Take a walk on Agate Beach this afternoon with a naturalist who will provide information about the marine and coastal ecosystems of the islands.
Day 5 Haida Gwaii, BC to Prince Rupert, BC B, D
We again board BC Ferries this morning, for a 6.5-hour ferry sailing to Prince Rupert. Relax on board, but keep a sharp lookout for the ocean wildlife. Tonight join your tour director, driver and fellow passengers for a Farewell Dinner courtesy of Pacific Gold Tours in the coastal port of Prince Rupert.
Day 6 Depart from Prince Rupert B
This morning during breakfast we say goodbye to our friends and fellow passengers. Enjoy a free morning to take advantage of hotel amenities or to explore Prince Rupert on your own. Depending on your flight departure, independently transfer to the airport.
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