Eco Tours & Indigenous Cultural Experiences on North Vancouver Island | Immerse Yourself In Nature
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Experience the wild beauty of British Columbia’s coastal rainforests through the eyes of your First Nations guide as they share their culture, history and traditions. Get out on the water to view wildlife, roam remote beaches, or listen to stories and learn how to weave cedar or make drums. k’awat’si Tours is your connection to Indigenous culture in Port Hardy on Vancouver Island.
Fun Fact Friday!
Did you know that adult male Steller Sea Lions can stretch up to a whopping 11 feet and weigh as much as 2,500 pounds? 🦭 While adult females are no slouches either, measuring 7.5 to 9.5 feet and maxing out at 800 pounds!
We at K'awat'si Tours would like to take a moment to express our deepest gratitude to all of you who have journeyed with us, embraced the beauty of North Vancouver Island, and shared in the rich cultural experiences, and history of the Gwa’sala Nakwaxda’xw Nations.
Your support has not only allowed us to showcase the breathtaking landscapes and unique traditions of our ancestors but has also played a vital role in fostering understanding, respect, and reconciliation. This year, as we approach the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation, we encourage everyone to continue seeking out indigenous voices, stories, and businesses in your communities and beyond.
Capturing untamed moments with our wild neighbours 📸🦭 What is your bucket list animal to photograph on the North Island?
A. Sea Lion
B. Sea Otter
C. Grey Whale
D. Black Bear
E. Coastal Wolf
Our guides tell the history and stories of the Gwa’sala-‘Nakwaxda’xw people, building on the legacy left to us by our ancestors.
Meet the Pigeon Guillemot! 🌊 These feathered friends are true adventurers of the North Pacific waters. 🌏 With a preference for rocky shores, cliffs, and island living near shallow waters, these avian acrobats know how to pick their nest spots! As winter arrives, they become savvy travellers, adjusting their location for ultimate comfort. And their dining habits? Top chefs of the underwater world, pursuing small fish and marine delicacies near the sea floor.
Seal-iously, this view is breathtaking! 🦭
We often see Stellar Sea Lions when out on our adventures and they sure love to pose for the camera.
Our local tour guides share their expertise and knowledge on the traditional lands and waters of the Gwa’sala Nakwaxda’xw Territories, offering guests a unique look into the cultural history of the Kwakwaka'wakw Nations.
Be sure to say Hi to Gabe next time you see him around the docks! 👋🏼
Did you know that the Guinness Book of World Records once listed Nakwakto Rapids as having “the fastest navigable tidal currents in the world? – up to 39 kilometres per hour during its largest tidal exchanges! 🌊
Make memories that will last a lifetime, and save 20% off any tour booked till the end of June! 👨👦 Father's Day is coming up quick and what better way to celebrate than by giving your dad an incredible experience with K'awat'si Tours.
Use promo code: DAD20
Book Your Tour ➡ kawatsitours.ca
Discover the untold stories of Historic Trade Beads, passed down through generations. Indigenous communities in northern Canada have cherished and traded beads for centuries. From natural materials like shells and bone to the introduction of glass beads by European explorers, these vibrant treasures have woven connections between cultures.
In the fur trade era, beads held immense value. Indigenous peoples hunted furs and received beads as payment. Remarkably, a strand of seed beads could be exchanged for a single beaver skin.
As times changed, beads evolved from currency to cherished adornments, preserving Indigenous culture. These enduring treasures have grown more beautiful with age, their colours taking on a glow that modern replication can't capture. Even today, during our tours on traditional territories, we continue to discover a wide array of trade beads that have endured the test of time.
🌊 Happy World Oceans Day! 🌊
Today, we celebrate the majestic beauty and incredible biodiversity of our oceans. At K'awat'si Tours, we understand the importance of preserving these precious ecosystems for future generations to enjoy. Join us in acknowledging this special day as we honour the wonders of the deep blue.
Did you know that Steller sea lions are quite the social butterflies? 🌊🦭
During the breeding season, they need some undisturbed land to rest, molt, mingle, mate, give birth, and nurse their adorable little pups. They love to hang out together and might even pile up in large groups, overlapping their bodies. But wait, there's more! Out at sea, you might spot them chilling alone or in small cliques, and occasionally, they gather in massive "rafts" at the water's surface. These sea lions sure know how to socialize, both on land and in the deep blue sea! 💦
June is a truly special month as we come together to celebrate National Indigenous History Month in Canada. As an Indigenous-owned and operated company, we are filled with pride and gratitude for the opportunity to honour the vibrant cultures, rich traditions, and experiences of Indigenous Peoples. 👣🪶🧡
At K'awat'si Tours, we hope to share the stories, achievements, and resilience of those who have graced this land for countless generations. Their remarkable heritage and history deserve recognition and celebration.
During this month, we invite each and every one of you to immerse yourselves in the history, languages, and lands of Indigenous cultures. Let's embark on a transformative journey of understanding and connection, as we acknowledge and appreciate the invaluable contributions that shape our present and future.
We have the pleasure of seeing a number of different marine mammals on our tours. One of the most common ones we see out on the water is Stellar Sea Lions! 🦭
📢 If you're close enough to hear them, steller sea lions have a distinct roar, unlike California sea lions who bark.
Fun fact: Brandt’s Cormorants nest in small colonies. These colonies are situated on islands, narrow cliff ledges, steep slopes, and other relatively inaccessible locations.🪶 Our tour guides often see these beautiful black seabirds while out on the water.
Be sure to bring your camera for the ultimate photo opportunity! 📷
Find us in the Vancouver Island North 2023 Explorer Guide! 👀
HOT OFF THE PRESS!!!
The very popular Vancouver Island North Explorer Guide is back.
🐋🌊 Vancouver Island is known as the whale-watching capital of the world, and for good reason! Get ready to be amazed as you witness the graceful giants, such as humpback whales, gray whales, and killer whales breaching and feeding in our pristine waters.
Fun Fact: There are over 20,000 Pacific Gray whales that make their way north along Vancouver Island every year from late February to April and south in November.
We have a pretty good chance of seeing these beautiful ocean giants every time we head out on the water.
Are you ready for some rumble action? 🗾
The rapids are powered by the changing tides which pushes huge volumes of water through this relatively narrow bottleneck. This tidal flow is so extreme here that Turret Rock has also been nicknamed “Rumble Island” because it’s known to shake from the vibrations of the ripping water at peak flows.
Book your adventure on Nakwakto Rapids today!
Join us for an Adventure in Port Hardy! 🌊🌲
Attention nature lovers and adventure seekers! 📣 We have a few spots left for our May 21st tour in Port Hardy.
📍 Destination: Nakwakto Rapids and Cultural Tour
📅 Date: May 21, 2023
⏰ Time: Departure at 8:00 AM
🌐 Meeting Point: Seagate Pier, Port Hardy BC
🌊 Explore serene waters, and encounter marine life.
🗺️ Learn about the history, culture, and traditions of Gwa’sala Nakwaxda’xw Traditional Territories.
🐳 Encounter otters, whales, seals, and more.
Limited spaces available! Call 📞 +1(250)-949-6032 or visit www.kawatsitours.ca to reserve your spot now!
Share your memories with .
Only a few days left to enter the giveaway for a tour for 2! 🎉🌸🌷
If you’re interested in booking a tour for mom as a Mother’s Day Gift, check out our website Kawatsitours.ca for more info.
🙌🏻 Who’s joining us this season?
Witness the untamed beauty of North Vancouver Island's coastal rainforests through the eyes of your Indigenous guides, as they unveil centuries of captivating culture, history, and traditions. 🌊 🌳
Book your adventure today | kawatsitours.ca
We see a lot of eagles while out on the water! 🦅 Incredible Birds!
Throwback to 2020!
Come join us this season for a unique indigenous experience.
Discover the magic of this tiny island located at the entrance to Seymour Inlet - home to one of the world's fastest tidal surges, the Nakwakto Rapids! With currents reaching 16-22 knots, the island is almost inaccessible except for a brief window each day.
Join us and experience this natural wonder for yourself! 🌊
It's a gorgeous day out and a reminder to book your tours for the season! ☀️ Our team is super excited with less than 2 weeks till we head out on the water.
For pricing and tour dates please visit www.kawatsitours.ca
An incredible film 🐺 Highly recommend checking it out to learn more about the wilderness and wildlife Vancouver Island has to offer! 🙌🏻
Island of the Sea Wolves has been nominated for 7 Emmys!! Nominations: Best series: Travel, Adventure, Nature program, Writing, Directing, Music, Cinematography, Editing, Sound Mixing / Editing
Congratulations team!
Jeff Turner, Chelsea Turner, Alex Burr, Lou Ferguson, Armen Evrensel, Kai Meyer, Matthew Muncaster, Jacques Russo, Jack Gawthrop, Lynn Fuhr, Maxwel Hohn, Matt Hood, Sam Eilis, Adam Ravetch, Darren West, Robin Smith, Dave Pearson, Kieran O’Donovan, James Frystak, Russell Clark, Tynan Callesen, Shane Craver, Beau Llewellyn, Casey Dubois, Cam Scott-Trask, Ryan Tidman, Mark McGovern
Seagate Wharf
Port Hardy, BC
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Is it magic, aliens, or just another incredible force of nature? Do you recognize the island? Located on traditional GNN territory - this is definitely a place you have to see for yourself. Video Credit 🎥 Ancient Aliens
We have the pleasure of seeing a number of different marine mammals on our tours. One of the most common ones we see out on the water is Stellar Sea Lions! 🦭 📢 If you're close enough to hear them, steller sea lions have a distinct roar, unlike California sea lions who bark.
Are you ready to embark on a journey where nature's symphony meets adrenaline-fueled adventure? Join us at Nakwato Rapids, and let your spirits soar! 🌟💫 #NakwaktoRapids #PortHardy #NatureUnleashed #AdrenalineJunkies #WildlifeEncounters #IndigenousHeritage #HelloBC #DestinationBC
Looking for something to keep the family busy this May Long weekend? We have availability for our Nakwakto Rapids & Cultural Tour on May 21! 🌊 Learn about the Gwa’sala Nakwaxda’xw First Nations' history on these waters and the deeply seeded roots of their ancestors. 🕦 This tour is approximately 4 hours long. 💲 $275 per person, please inquire about group rates. Book your adventure at www.kawatsitours.ca
Our experienced indigenous guides will take you on an unforgettable adventure through the rugged coastline, pristine forests, and wild waters of Northern Vancouver Island. 🗺️
Who's ready to explore one of the fastest-flowing tidal rapids in the world? 🌊 Book your Nakwakto Rapids Tour Today!
Our crew still has some availability for our next Scenic Boat & Wildlife Tour - Friday, September. 2. This tour is approximately 4 Hours in Length and departs from the Port Hardy Dock @ 9:00AM. Contact us Today or go online for more details: 📞(250) 949 6032 ✉️[email protected] 🌐https://kawatsitours.ca/
🎥: Kim Kufaas 📍: Port Hardy, British Columbia Earlier this week we had the amazing opporunity to take a crew out on a Nakwakto Rapids & Cultural Tour. Alongside our team were local creators Kim Kufaas (@westcoastlife on Instagram) & Geoff Heith (@geoffheith). During the tour we stopped and visited Ba'as (Blunden Harbour). in 1964 the Canadian Government forcibly moved the Gwa'sala and the 'Nakwaxda'xw People from their traditional territories to the current location of Tsulquate - Port Hardy. Ba'as (Blunden Harbour) was one such village that 'Nakwaxda'xw People were forcibly removed from. Their village was completely burnt to the ground in an attempt to ensure no one would return after relocation. Many people left taking with them only what they could fit in their boats. Scattered throughout the beach you can find the remains of old boat engines, metal bed frames, bottles and thousands of empty clam shells that were once a primary food source. Special thank you to Kim Kufaas for capturing and sharing this experience with us. If you would like to book a Nakwakto Rapids Tour or a Scenic Boat & Wildlife Tour contact K'awat'si Tours Today: 📞 (250) 230-5681 NOW BOOKING INTO AUGUST
Are you on summer holidays? Looking for a once in a lifetime LOCAL Tour? Come join us Friday, August 21st. Explore the Rapid Tours and learn about our culture. It’s our last Rapid Tour for the season. Call 250-949-8525 or come see us at the Kwa’lilas Hotel to book your spot. #kwalilashotel #indigenoustourismbc #indigenoustourism #visitporthardy #explorebc #kawatsitours #supportlocalbusinesses #gilakasla
Come aboard and witness the Nakwakto Rapids, fastest navigable tidal rapids on Earth! Due to the timing of the tides, this tour only runs on certain dates each month. The next dates in July are: Thursday, July 12th – 6:00 AM Saturday, July 14th – 7:30 AM Monday, July 16th – 8:45 AM Tuesday July 17th – 9:45 AM Call to book 250-949-6032 Or, book online at: https://kawatsitours.ca/tours/nakwakto-rapids-cultural-tour/
Here is a little viewing from our Cultural Song & Dance from our k'awat'si Tours. Join our group and witness what our Youth have to share with you on what they are learning from our Elders. kawatsitours.ca you can book your seat now.
We came across some Orca this morning on a crossing to the mainland and were able to identify the whales as part of the Northern Resident population the I15's. Beautiful morning on the water.
