Pacific Rim Region
Immerse yourself in wild yet wonderfully protected nature on the far west coast of Vancouver Island. Launch into one active adventure after the next with friends and family. Tread lightly across miles of wave-washed beaches or along serpentine boardwalks winding through dense coastal rainforests. Shop for exquisite art and crafts.
FACT > The Pacific Rim region stretches from Port Alberni, a vibrant community situated at the tip of a long salwater inlet, and extends southwest to the open ocean to encompass the coastal villages of Bamfield, Ucluelet and Tofino.
Hang with the locals in bistros, coffeeshops and during seasonal festivals. Reel in the big ones (salmon). Step back in time to the heyday of the forestry industry or ride the leading-edge wave of west coast surf culture. And at the conclusion of long, active, chilled out and tuned in days, relax and dream deep in world-class accommodations, funky lodgings or under the stars.
Then arise again, supercharged by the promise of another set of remarkable experiences.
Thar’s a storm brewin’ – Watch massive waves, thundering surf, explosions of white spray and thrashing rain, all driven by winds that gust up to 100 knots from the warm comfort of your beachside hotel room.
The meeting of land, ocean, mountain and river has created awe-inspiring beauty. International travellers and anyone within an easy getaway escape of Vancouver, Victoria and Seattle can have it all: the salty tang and stormy magnificence of the open Pacific; a curvaceous coastline lined with beaches and headlands; the head-spinningly aromatic mysteries of the coastal rainforest; the trails, lakes and mountain bike routes of the interior; and breathtakingly scenic waterways leading to the ocean.
Picturesque Harbour Quay in Port Alberni.
The trip from the Central Island region’s eastern coastline leads first to Port Alberni, a deepwater inland port with a growing eco-tourism industry rooted in its long history as a salmon fishing capital. This unpretentious town offers big-box shopping plazas along with a funky waterfront shopping/dining area and the chance to digitally shoot black bears at the edge of the Somass River. Fishing, hiking, golf, geocaching and mountain biking opportunities galore are all within minutes of town.
The scenic Pacific Rim Highway (aka Hwy #4) continues northwest on twisting two-lane blacktop across the Island’s central mountain range to the Pacific coast. Not far past Port Alberni, swim and picnic at Sprout Lake while marveling at the size of the world’s largest flying boats moored just offshore (when they’ve not been called into firefighting action). Learn more about these remarkable water bombers at the visitor centre on Cherry Creek Road.
Another 90 or so minutes of patient drivetime leads to the far west coast. Take a left to Ucluelet (pronounced you-clue-let), a “safe harbour” (in the First Nations translation of the word) for boats and visitors alike with its growing array of restaurants, lodgings and adventure guides. Turning right leads to the Pacific Rim National Park Reserve and onward to the resort accommodations, restaurants and galleries of lively Tofino. Tour the botanical gardens, paddle over to Meares Island (home to a remarkable stand of old-growth cedar), try yoga on the beach and learn how to surf the big waves after mastering the smaller ones.
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Tourism Tofino
Tofino is remarkable any time of year. Summer days are full of fishing and exploring; Autumn is a photographer and foodie paradise. Winter affords you a front-row seat to the edge of the world during powerful storms. And Tofino rejuvenates in Spring; celebrating the return of the grey whales, shorebirds, black bears, and the renewed vibrancy of the rainforest. Come create your own reality here. Come be awed by the force of nature in Tofino.
More InformationTofino • Pacific Rim
250-725-3414
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Long Beach Lodge Resort
Luxury oceanfront resort on the expansive sandy beach of Cox Bay; relaxed inspirational West Coast setting & award winning architecture. Iconic Great Room with oceanview dining room & lounge. Complimentary continental breakfast. Two types of accommodation: beachfront Lodge rooms or self-contained, 2 bedroom Rainforest Cottages. Pet friendly accommodation available. The Surf Club is our adventure centre offering on-site surf /sup lessons & rentals, Marine Adventures on our new heated charter vessel, and luxurious post-adventure spa-like facilities.
More Information1441 Pacific Rim Highway • Tofino • Pacific Rim
1-877-844-7873
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Alberni Valley Tourism
The Alberni Valley is the ultimate retreat for people who love the outdoors. Already a prized fishing destination (we’re known as “the Salmon Fishing Capital of the World”!), the Alberni Valley is also home to a host of stimulating outdoor activities to tempt every interest. Whether on land or in the water, you’ll find yourself making memories to last a lifetime the Alberni Valley. We can’t wait to welcome you! WATER Hot summer days and strong afternoon breezes make the Alberni Valley a mecca for water enthusiasts. Get your toes wet in one of Canada’s best water playgrounds! WINDSURF Due [...]
More InformationPort Alberni • Pacific Rim
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Tourism Ucluelet
Ucluelet On Canada’s wild west coast, you can visit the edge of an island both ancient with history and young in energy. Visit with whales, bears, eagles, and rainforest creatures. Storm watch, surf, kayak, hike and fish where the mountains reach the sea. Wander Vancouver Island’s beaches and cl ifftop trails right from your motel, cabin, resort or B&B. Ucluelet, BC is a world class destination. The area is famous for having some of the largest stands of old-growth red cedar in the region and is just minutes away from Long Beach, BC, the longest stretch of sandy beach on [...]
More InformationUcluelet • Pacific Rim
250-726-4641
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Clayoquot Ventures Tofino Fishing
18 Years of Great Fishing, Great Service and Great Fun! Not only is Clayoquot Ventures Tofino Fishing the #1 Rated Tour on TripAdvisor, we continue to be the trusted and proven industry leader for Sport fishing in Tofino. Our experienced guide team have spent countless hours on the water, our fleet of vessels are equipped with top of the line gear and electronics, and our commitment to meeting our guests’ expectations continues to be our top priority. We strive to provide safe, productive and fun fishing excursions for all experience levels and group sizes. Clayoquot Ventures Tofino Fishing primarily focuses [...]
More Information561 Campbell Street • Tofino • Pacific Rim
1-888-534-7422
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Jamie’s Whaling Station
In 2012, Jamie’s Whaling Station and Adventure Centres celebrated an amazing 30 years! … and we’re excited about the next 30! Jamie Bray, the original and current owner, pioneered the art of the whale watching industry on Vancouver Island. Since 1982 the company has grown to encompass the original Whaling Wharf- our Jamie’s Adventure Station in Tofino, and in 2000 established the harbour-front hub of Jamie’s Adventure Station in Ucluelet. But Jamie’s is more than just whales – we’re your ticket to the real west coast- fostering partnerships with many local operators to offer a range of adventure options for [...]
More Information168 Fraser Lane, Ucluelet • Tofino, Ucluelet • Pacific Rim
1-800-667-9913
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Black Rock Oceanfront Resort
Black Rock Oceanfront Resort. Your relaxation destination on Vancouver Island’s rugged west coast. Modern comfort set in breathtaking ocean side wilderness. Come and explore all the Ucluelet has to offer and enjoy the amenities available at Black Rock. Pool, Hot Tubs, Spa and wonderful dining in the restaurant or lounge.
More Information596 Marine Drive • Ucluelet • Pacific Rim
250-726-4800
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Canadian Princess Resort
Located in Ucluelet on Vancouver Island’s west coast, Canadian Princess Resort offers a variety of accommodations: stay on the permanently moored 235’ ship or in traditional shoreside rooms. Savour the thrill of guided fishing trips targeting salmon, halibut and bottom fish and whale watching adventures through the Broken Group Islands.
More Information1943 Peninsula Rd • Ucluelet • Pacific Rim
250-726-7771
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Big Bear Salmon Charters
Big Bear Salmon Charters, your ultimate choice in fishing the beautiful west coast of Vancouver Island. Your adventure begins first thing in the morning with an orientation at our office located at the Whiskey Landing Lodge. You will be suited up in top of the line mustang floatation gear and viking deck boots. Your custom ordered lunch and coffee await you aboard our fully loaded 282 Grady White Sailfish. Your guide will go through, in detail, a safety orientation once you have boarded our vessel. Once you have reached the fishing grounds your guide will teach you step by step [...]
More Information1645 Cedar Rd. Unit 3 • Ucluelet • Pacific Rim
250-726-7263
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Tofino Botanical Gardens
Tofino Botanical Gardens are twelve acres of magical gardens, forest, and shoreline that explore the relationship between culture and nature. A network of paths and boardwalks take you from Darwin’s Café and Visitor Centre around the flower, herb and kitchen gardens, the duck pond, and Children’s Garden into the forest, where clearings have been transformed into a series of pocket gardens, art installations and garden buildings. In 2010, they were selected as one of the best gardens in the world by Jane Perrone, the gardening editor for the UK’s Guardian newspaper for their whimsical and inspiring nature. Featuring an extensive [...]
More InformationTofino • Pacific Rim
250-725-1220
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The Whale Centre
The Whale Centre located in Tofino, BC offers whale, bear, bird and Hot Springs tours. You will have an opportunity to see Grey Whales, Humpbacks, Orcas, Sea Otters, Black Bears, Eagles and many other marine species. Our friendly, experienced staff is committed to providing you with an exceptional wildlife experience.
More Information411 Campbell Street • Pacific Rim
250-725-2132
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Pacific Sands Beach Resort
Pacific Sands Beach Resort boasts Tofino’s only Deluxe all Suite Oceanview and Beachfront accommodation with Vancouver Island’s finest and most comfortable, fully equipped Suites and Beach Houses. Located beach-front on spectacular Cox Bay the resort sits on the edge of Pacific Rim National Park, a short scenic drive from Long Beach as well as the charming, seaside village of Tofino – famous for local culture and artisans. Built on family, romance and fun, guests have revered and returned to Pacific Sands for decades. From smores and board-games around the gazebo, to surfing adventures and boardwalk strolls to Pettinger Point, it’s a [...]
More Information1421 Pacific Rim Highway • Tofino • Pacific Rim
1-800-565-2322
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Alberni Pacific “Steam” Railway
Board our 1929 Baldwin steam locomotive at the historic Port Alberni Railway Station and experience the romance of live steam on a 35 minute ride to the McLean Mill National Historic site. The sound of steel wheels on rail serenades you as you pass through the town and its friendly inhabitants, by fields and forest and along side a vineyard and winery.
Port Alberni • Pacific Rim
250-723-1376
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The Cabins at Terrace Beach, Ucluelet
Check in & chill out in your Oceanfront, Forest or Waterfront Cabin at TERRACE BEACH at the start of the Wild Pacific Trail. Fully equipped kitchens with dishwasher, washer & dryers, big18 jet jacuzzi tubs, fireplaces, BBQ, Pets Always Welcome. “You gotta stay here”
1090 Peninsula Rd • Ucluelet • Pacific Rim
1-866-GET-HERE (438-4373)
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Ukee Days Festival
July 26 – 28, 2013 Get a taste for true west coast culture! Long-running community festival featuring Logger Sports Canadian Championships, Live Music, Beer Gardens, Vendors, great food, KidZone and much more!
Ucluelet • Pacific Rim
250-726-7772
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A Snug Harbour Inn
Perched on 28m (85′) cliff overlooking the rugged Pacific coastline & surrounded by old growth forest; we are an intriguing romantic setting for adult clientele; private beach; private suites; incredible ocean views; king/queen beds; en-suites; fireplaces; balconies; jetted tubs; heated ceramic floors; full breakfast. Whale watching; great hiking trails with the Wild Pacific Trail at our driveway; sea kayaking; salmon & halibut fishing; great fabulous beach-combing; float plane tours. We are probably one of the best locations for storm watching; sit in your room or the Great Room with the fire roaring & watch nature unleash its fury!
Ucluelet • Pacific Rim
1-888-936-5222
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Remote Passages
Wild Whales • Bears • Kayaking • Hot Springs - All with ‘Remote’ – quality Tofino adventures since 1986. Cruise the open Pacific or visit quiet-water inlets • Zodiac or 32’ all-weather cabin vessel • All gear provided for comfort and safety • plus Rainforest walk on Meares Island “Big Tree Trail” – great for families! Multi-tour Discounts • CAA/AAA • Lodging + Tour Packages available March to October • Toll Free Canada & U.S. 1-888-439-3396
Tofino • Pacific Rim
250-725-3330
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Victoria Quay
You don’t need to go far in Alberni to see black bears, minks, eagles, and seals – these can be safely viewed at the Victoria Quay. As wildlife puts on a show across the river, you can stroll along the Quay’s walkway or have a picnic in the park. You’ll also find restaurants, a tackle shop, a gift shop, and First Nations carvings.
Port Alberni • Pacific Rim
250-723-2146
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Terrace Beach Resort Ucluelet
Jason Priestley & Family invite you to our beach front resort in Ucluelet, BC. Many units with private hot tubs. All with kitchenettes and fully equipped. Connected to the Wild Pacific Trail. Open all year.
Ucluelet • Pacific Rim
1-866-726-2901
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Nootka Marine Adventures
Nootka Sound’s finest marina and rv resort; camping, luxury yurts, waterfront chalets and resort suites all in one spectacular property. Located 45 km beyond Gold River on the road to Tahsis. Open May long weekend through October. Nootka Marine Adventures offers world class fishing adventures at two remote lodges in Nootka Sound. Marina, boat launch, fuels, boat and kayak rentals, charter guides, ice, showers, store, restaurant, pet friendly. Teeming chinook, coho, halibut, yelloweye and lingcod – and excellent prawning and crabbing opportunities. Freshwater chinook, coho, chum and trout in numerous remote, pristine streams surrounding the resorts.
Tahsis • Pacific Rim
1-877-337-5464
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Lady Rose Marine Services
Frances Barkley Cruise spectacular Barkley Sound on the Frances Barkley. Watch for eagles, cormorants and other seabirds. There may be sea lions or seals in sight or you may be lucky enough to see black bears or whales along the way. There are year-round sailings to Bamfield, and June-September sailings to Ucluelet and the Broken Group. You can also rent kayaks, book a stay at our scenic Sechart lodge in Barkley Sound, or make a reservation for our convenient Sechart-based connector water taxi. Visit our website for full schedule details.
Port Alberni • Pacific Rim
250-723-8318
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Reef Point Cottages
Vancouver Island’s hidden gem, Reef Point Cottages offer an exciting, intimate and self-indulging experience for those who want to explore what British Columbia’s most spectacular and natural landscape has to offer. With clean fresh air, idyllic scenery and breathtaking activities, we are casually situated in the middle of raw nature.
Ucluelet • Pacific Rim
1-877-726-4425
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Harbour Quay
The Harbour Quay is the centre of life and play in Port Alberni. It features gift shops, art galleries, restaurants, coffee shops, a park, boardward, Farmers Market and marine businesses. See current weather and waterfront activities on our Harbour web cam at http://www.portalberni.ca
Port Alberni • Pacific Rim
250-723-2146
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BriMar Bed and Breakfast
Located right on the South End of Chesterman Beach, our large hip-roofed home will instill quiet and pleasant times in you. Whether you choose to enjoy a long walk on the sandy beach, literally in our back yard, or sit comfortably by the old-fashioned wood stove and daydream, we will make sure your time with us is wonderful. Our Bed and Breakfast offers three large bedrooms with spectacular ocean views.
Tofino • Pacific Rim
250-725-3410
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Wickaninnish Inn
Discover Tofino through the only resort on Chesterman Beach. The Wickaninnish Inn offers magnificent views of the open ocean set against a backdrop of old-growth forest. A dedicated Clef’s d’Or Concierge custom creates readily available Tofino itineraries such as: wildlife viewing, fishing, ocean sports, and arts and cultural experiences. Uncompromising service and a range of in-house amenities, such as Ancient Cedars Spa and The Pointe Restaurant, make for memories reaching far beyond the tangible.
Tofino • Pacific Rim
250-725-3100
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Maritime Discovery Centre
Port Alberni’s Maritime Discovery Centre, constructed from an actual coastal lighthouse, invites you to experience the rich history of the Alberni Inlet, Barkley Sound and Vancouver Island’s rugged west coast. Get up close to the working harbour and envision the many changes over time; explore the history of west coast lighthouses and tales of their keepers; learn about the 1964 tsunami that hit Port Alberni and how current research tells us more about the activity of the ocean floor.
Port Alberni • Pacific Rim
250-723-2181
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Majestic Ocean Bed and Breakfast
Waterfront Bed and Breakfast on Ucluelet Harbour, private entrance rooms with en suite spa inspired bathrooms. Sleep well in our chiropractic beds with premier quality linens. Awake to a delicious breakfast prepared in our own kitchen. Enjoy the chemical free waterfront hot tub.
Ucluelet • Pacific Rim
250-726-2868
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Blue Room Bistro
Located in the center of Ucluelet’s historic downtown, The Blue Room Bistro serves up the best breakfast on the west coast, ALL DAY LONG! As well as an extensive lunch menu; with everything from daily made soups, hand made burgers, butcher cut steaks and fresh locally caught fish. At The Blue Room Bistro, every dish is created using only the finest ingredients. We boast the biggest patio in Ucluelet with a 200 degree view of the harbour and surrounding mountains which produces the perfect backdrop for you to come enjoy the island way of life.
Ucluelet • Pacific Rim
250-726-4464
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Crystal Cove Beach Resort
Nestled among ancient cedars at the edge of the Pacific Ocean, enjoy genuine log cabins with spectacular views and all the amenities. From beachfront cabins with private hot tubs, to secluded cabins set in the rainforest, you will be immersed in the beauty that is Clayoquot Sound. Our family oriented, pet friendly resort is located on Mackenzie Beach minutes from the town of Tofino, Pacific Rim National Park, and the famous Long Beach. For those who prefer to rough it in style, we also offer sixty-nine well treed, private, fully-serviced RV sites only a short walk from the beach.
Tofino • Pacific Rim
1-877-725-4213
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Best Western Tin Wis Resort
Located on beautiful Mackenzie Beach, the Best Western Tin Wis Resort features 185 oceanview rooms. Enjoy our sauna, hot tub or complimentary BBQ area. Proudly owned and operated by the Tla-o-qui-aht First Nation.
Tofino • Pacific Rim
1-800-661-9995
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Lady Rose Marine Services – Sechart Lodge
Adjacent to the Broken Group Islands, our lodge offers a relaxing retreat in a wilderness setting. Rent our kayaks or canoes to explore this fascinating marine sanctuary. Water taxi services also available.
Port Alberni • Pacific Rim
250-723-8318
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WestCoast Wild Adventures Ltd.
Eco-educational Adventure Zipline – Zip 6 lines (2 hours) in Ha’uukmin Tribal Park, Tla-o-qui-aht traditional territory. Experience ancient growth rain forest and a narrow sculptured canyon carved deep by rushing clear water. Flight Seeing – an Eagle eyes view of the big picture. River Kayaking – monumental wilderness “Grab the Adventure, keep the Memories”
Port Alberni, Tofino, Ucluelet • Pacific Rim
1-877-992-9453
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Majestic Ocean Kayaking
Guided kayaking day trips and multi day trips to the Broken Group Islands and Clayoquot Sound. Paddle through the many islands, exploring and viewing the nature and wildlife. Enjoy a gourmet picnic lunch on a white sandy beach (special diets catered to). Quality equipment included and certified fun loving guides.
Ucluelet • Pacific Rim
250-726-2868
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Chances Rim Rock Gaming Centre
So much more than just a place to relax and have fun. Come enjoy slots, bingo and brewpub dining while nestled under the canopy of a Pacific Northwest Rainforest. Must be 19+.
Port Alberni • Pacific Rim
250-724-7600
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Tofino Vacation Rentals, Inc.
Tofino’s premier vacation rentals! Offering a select portfolio of beachfront and oceanfront homes, cabins and condos. Pets welcome at some properties. Tourism BC Approved Accommodation.
Tofino • Pacific Rim
250-725-2779
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McLean Mill National Historic Site
Experience the sights, smells and sounds of the old days as the steam donkey hauls logs from the woods and the 1925 steam mill cuts them into lumber. Original camp buildings are yours to explore, vintage equipment is working on site and a theatre troupe tells tales from the past. The Steam Pot Café, special mill shop and childrens activities add to the experience. Site is accessible by steam train, vehicle or bicycle.
Port Alberni • Pacific Rim
250-723-1376
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Alberni Valley Museum
Excellent community museum with visible storage display system for maximum public access to collections. Explore First Nations culture, early settlement, industrial and maritime history and see unique local folk art and archival photographs. A highlight is the fine examples of local contemporary art. 2012 features special exhibit on the community’s centennial with hands- on childrens’ component.
Port Alberni • Pacific Rim
250-723-2181
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Wya Point Resort
Beach front campground – RVs, tenting with flush toilets and showers 15 fully furnished yurts on raised cedar decks with gas fireplaces and all amenities right on the beach. NEW ! 4 Private fully serviced luxury cedar lodges on Ucluth Beach accommodate up to 6 adults each. Surf Shop and Café with rentals,lessons,hot food and showers. For reservations visit www.wyapoint.com or phone 250-726-3435 for the beach front resort or 250-726-2992 for the surf shop rentals.
Ucluelet • Pacific Rim
250-726-3435
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Ocean Outfitters
A premier tour company offering guaranteed whale watching, bear watching, coastal hot spring tours, Meares Island walk & custom private charters. Comfortable state of the art cabin vessels & large zodiac with washrooms. Free parking, gallery & espresso bar. Book online before June 1st & receive a 10% discount. Readers choice award – Voted #1 charter company for six years.
Tofino • Pacific Rim
250-725-2866
