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 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 to a family of 12. There’s plenty of entertainment for children and big kids alike from our on-deck hot tub, mountain bikes, and 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 and is certified for Marine Emergency Duties (MEDS) Domestic Vessel Safety, levels 1 and 2.

4. 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 WildWhales.org and the Wilderness Tourism Association. We also have partnerships with local environmental advocacy groups such as Pacific Wild and the North Island Marine Mammal Stewardship Association.

We follow best practices of the “Whale Wise Guidelines”. Additionally, we support and whenever possible 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 for viewing 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. The Association’s purpose is to promote sustainable bear viewing in BC, and aid in the protection of wild bears and their delicate ecosystems.

When it comes to the seafood onboard, we have partnered with OceanWise to ensure we are meeting sustainable criteria. Chef Ben purchases all our seafood and meat directly himself; he knows where, when and how the seafood was caught, and which farm the meat is coming from.

5. 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.

6. 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.

7. 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 galvanised 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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