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FAQs

Want to Know More?

We are happy to answer any questions you have about our expeditions. Simply give us a call or send us an email. Here are some of the questions (and answers) from past guests:

1. I’m ready to join the adventure but am concerned about getting seasick.

These coastal waters are some of the calmest on the planet, thanks to the thousands of smaller offshore islands that break up big waves and prevent swells from reaching the inlets.

The Pacific Yellowfin’s large size, sturdy sea-kindly hull, and five watertight bulkheads make her incredibly stable.

2. I want to create treasured family memories. Are children welcome on board?

We welcome all ages, from newborns to grand-folks, to join the family adventure. The Pacific Yellowfin has ample room for 8 guests up to a family of 12. There’s plenty of entertainment for children and big kids alike from our on-deck hot tub, mountain bikes, Honda Ruckus scooters, and our 40” inflatable slide, water trampolines, and watersports equipment.

We love having children aboard. However, our crew is busy with their duties, so if you require childcare please plan to bring additional help.

*Our Pacific Playground Expedition offers more multi-generational activities than our Rainforest Safari Expedition.

3. What about safety aboard the Pacific Yellowfin?

The Pacific Yellowfin is a Transport Canada-certified passenger vessel. We are committed to an annual onboard inspection to ensure we uphold the highest safety standards for the assurance of our guests and crew alike. During restoration, she was considerably modernized to meet present-day safety standards. She has also been fitted with a brand-new automatic water sprinkler system.

Our crew is trained in marine medical first aid. They are certified for Marine Emergency Duties (MEDS) Domestic Vessel Safety, levels 1 and 2.

4. Can you assist with arranging and booking our seaplane flights from YVR International Airport to the Pacific Yellowfin?

Absolutely! We can arrange your charter seaplane flights for arrival and departure to coincide with your existing travel plans. We have multiple charter companies in the area that are very familiar with transporting our guests. For the Great Bear Rainforest Expedition, transfers to and from the Terrace airport to the Pacific Yellowfin are included in the charter rate.

5. What is included in the charter package?

This is your all-inclusive, private floating wilderness resort! Accommodation in staterooms or deluxe cabins. All gourmet meals: breakfast, lunch, mise en bouche, dinner and snacks. All beverages: soda pops, juices and water any time of the day; selected BC wines and “Pacific Yellowfin Beer” served during cocktails and meals. For safety reasons, we cannot operate an open bar. Use of all our water sports and activities at the Captain’s discretion. A personal crew of 5: Captain Colin Griffinson, Chief Engineer, Executive Chef, Stewardess and Guide.

6. What type of activities do you have on board?

If you can think of it, we probably have it! For water sports, we have: kayaks, paddle boards, 2 x 7 man paddle boards, water trampoline, 40 ft. inflatable slide, towing tubes, inflatable log, wakeboards, water skis, wet suits, snorkelling equipment and fishing gear. On board, we have yoga mats and a hot tub. Our tenders take you closer to shore to observe wildlife. Explore ashore with our ruckus scooters and mountain bikes, or enjoy hiking trails.

7. Eco-tourism is important to me. Tell me more about your ethos for discovering wildlife + protecting their environment.

We are proud members of several eco-tourism and wildlife associations, including BC Whales and the Wilderness Tourism Association of BC. We also partner with local environmental advocacy groups such as Pacific Wild and the North Island Marine Mammal Stewardship Association.

We follow the best practices of the “Whale Wise Guidelines.” Additionally, whenever possible, we support and visit the Cetacea Lab to help our guests learn more about their role in protecting these magnificent marine mammals.

We hop into small boats, kayaks, and paddle boards to view wildlife to minimize disturbance. We have nurtured personal connections with the Gitga’at and Kitasoo Xai’Xais First Nations communities, for which we are very grateful,

Our bear guides are certified with the Commercial Bear Viewing Association of BC. The Association aims to promote sustainable bear viewing in BC and aid in protecting wild bears and their delicate ecosystems.

Whenever possible we highlight locally caught or foraged ingredients, with the goal to use sustainably and ethically harvested products. We work with many local specialty producers, purchasing seafood, meat and produce directly from the source.

8. I have dietary restrictions. Are you able to accommodate my needs?

Of course! We offer delicious alternatives for all dietary restrictions.
Just let us know in advance of your special requests and we will build your personalised menu.

9. I’ve heard that the Pacific Coast weather can be temperamental. What if it gets cold and rainy?

Travelling through the Pacific coastal temperate rainforest can get a little cool and rainy at times. But don’t worry. Our vessel is equipped with features to keep you warm and dry in case of inclement weather. There’s also screening that can be zipped around the heated fantail deck.

Sometimes, a little rain makes for better bear viewing; the rain dampens our noise and our smell. We provide full Helly Hansen foul weather gear and waterproof boots so you can continue to take full advantage of our toys and activities.

10. I love wooden boats! Tell me more about The Pacific Yellowfin.

Captain Colin admittingly suffers from “wooden boat disease”! It was love at first sight when he saw this impressive boat. He has diligently maintained her integrity and beauty as a historical wooden vessel. Constructed almost exclusively with native timbers, the wooden grandeur has been preserved and its varnish glows throughout the boat.

  • Construction: Wood (70mm). Douglas fir on sawn fir and yellow cedar frames. White oak keel and keelson, fastened with galvanized iron bolts and spikes, locust treenails
  • Builder/year: Billings Shipyard, 1942/43
  • Naval Architect (1942): H.C. Hanson
  • Refit Naval Architect: Ian J. Ross
  • Refit Interior Designer: Robert Ledinghan Inc.
  • Length: 34.6m (113ft)
  • Width: 9.14m (30 ft)
  • Beam: 8.36m (27ft)
  • Weight: 443 tonnes
  • Engines: 22 x Atlas Imperial diesels (1943)
  • Propellers: Original 1.57m
  • Max Cruise Speed: 10/12 knots
  • 3 Deck Areas: Main deck with aft fantail lounge and forward deck. Mid deck with lounge chairs. Top deck provides 360-degree view for whale watching
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