Adventure Cruises through the British Columbia Coastal Rainforest
Tuesday, February 9th, 2010
The central coast of British Columbia presents the perfect backdrop for adventure cruises and wildlife viewing. This Canadian coast is a land of fjords between towering mountains, lush islands, spectacular waterfalls and great river estuaries. The largest intact area of temperate rainforest left in North American lies along this
coast known as the Great Bear Rainforest and it is home to hundreds of species of wildlife as well as a very rare species of bear. Rich salmon streams weave through the valley bottoms and provide food for magnificent creatures such as orcas, eagles, wolves, black and grizzly bears. This is the sole habitat of the white Kermode Bear or “Spirit” bear which is a unique species of black bear with a white coat.
This is also home to the First Nations tribes: Heiltsuk, Kitasoo Xai’xais, Haisla, Gitga’at and Henaaksiala. Everywhere along this coast is evidence of their civilization. Fish traps, bark-stripped trees, longhouses and totems all remain giving testimony to a way of life tuned to nature. Visits to their modern villages, talking with tribal elders and local residents and enjoying their ancient art traditions are all culturally enriching.
For an intimate cruise experience, TMI Tours & Cruises recommends a vacation aboard the Maple Leaf Schooner. She sails from Sidney, B.C., Canada along the entire length of the Great Bear Rainforest twice in Spring, once in Summer and twice in Fall. This classic 92 foot, 5-sail schooner was completely
restored between 1980-1986 and offers all modern conveiniences while still maintaining her old-world charm. Sailing with a crew of 5, a guest list of 8 and a fabulous chef, this vacation will feel like you are aboard your own private yacht. Entertainment will be provided by local scientists, naturalists and of course, the inhabitants of this precious piece of land and ocean.
Contact Linda or Rhonda at TMI Tours & Cruises for a full itinerary, brochure or dates of sailing aboard this majestic tall ship, the Maple Leaf Schooner. 1-800-975-7775 or info@tmitours.com


Passengers are also encouraged to participate in a jet-boat trip into Hell’s Canyon on the Snake River or to explore the shoreline via kayak or zodiaks and enjoy the pristine beauty of these rivers up close.
Seattle, Washington is a beautiful city to begin any vacation from and it is easily accessible from anywhere in the world. Known as the Emerald City because of it’s lush green landscape, this lumber-town turned metropolis is famous for the Space Needle and Pike’s Place Market (home of the flying fish). After a day to explore Vancouver, British Columbia, the cruise takes passengers through the British Columbia Sunshine Coast and Desolation Sound Provincial Marine Park. Surrounded by lush evergreen forests and snowcapped peaks, this 60 miles of breathtaking coastline has enought bays, coves, nooks and crannies to delight even the most demanding of adventurers. Returning with a stop in Nanaimo where passengers are greeted by traditionally dressed Royal Canadian Mounted Police, the afternoon will
be via the remote waterways and quiet coves of the Gulf Islands. You won’t want to miss High Tea served in the Palm Room at the historic Empress Hotel located waterfront in beautiful Victoria, British Columbia. Known as the “Garden City” for it’s famous 55-acre landmark, Buchart Gardens, this quaint capitol offers delightful shopping and browsing opportunities. The last two stops take in Friday Harbor of the San Juan Islands where you can explore Puget Sound up close, and then Port Townsend known for it’s late 19th-century architecture.
With tempting discounts on 2010 cruises purchased by December 11, 2009, TMI Tours invities you to escape to the Pacific Northwest Coast. This is truly a voyage of contrasts–rich in wildlife, culture and scenery. Contact Rhonda or Linda at TMI Tours for cruise dates and availability. 1-800-975-7775 or info@tmiours.com
music, culture, cuisine and local history into a total travel experience. The small-ships that cruise the Columbia and Snake Rivers are intimate and family oriented, creating memories that will last a life time.
Cruisewest vessel. Adventures beckon daily with jet boats trips up Hells Canyon to view 7,000 year-old Indian petroglyphs or tours beneath wild and wooly Pendleton, Oregon where Chinese emigrants once carried out their daily lives underground. Visits to fascinating museums or Lewis & Clark landmarks like Fort Clatsop will bring American history alive for adults and children alike. You’ll find the past and present coexist here, from Oregon Trail wagon ruts to the engineering marvel of the eight locks and dams that tame this mighty river.


The Columbia River scenery is dramatic and diverse with lush evergreen forests, cascading waterfalls, orchards, vineyards and stark basalt cliffs. Only Cruise West can get you so close, you’ll feel the spray of the falls on your face. Call Rhonda or Linda at TMI Tours to check available cabins and dates for a great adventure on the Mighty Columbia River. 1-800-975-7775 or info@tmitours.com





