Remote West Coast Adventures
Remote West Coast Adventures
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Join Remote West Coast Adventures on a once in a lifetime experience as we discover the natural beauty of coastal British Columbia. Aboard the Union Jack, a former Canadian Naval Ship built in the 1940s, travel through stunning destinations such as the Southern Gulf Islands, Vancouver Island and Toba Inlet with our luxury tours or contact us directly to create your own custom bespoke adventure.
Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
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Most Recent: Reviews ordered by most recent publish date in descending order.
Detailed Reviews: Reviews ordered by recency and descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as waiting time, length of visit, general tips, and location information.
5.0
7 reviews
Excellent
7
Very good
0
Average
0
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Terrible
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Marie M
Duncan, Canada32 contributions
Jul 2024 • Couples
We explored the Island Inland Passage for 5 days in the beautiful, historic Union Jack. After cruising the gorgeous Johnstone Straits we moored in our first hamlet, Forward Harbour. The next morning we were shuttled to Yorke Island, the gunnery that protected the coast of Vancouver Island during WW2, then cruised to spend a lovely night at Blind Channel. The next day we tootled up to Sonora Island for a side by side ride to a spectacular view, followed by a cruise through Hole In the Wall channel and up to the glacial green waters of Bute Inlet. The final day was viewing the majestic Falls at the head of Teakerne Arm on Redonda Island, a brief visit to Refuge Cove, and anchoring in the famous Desolation Sound. After 5 days of awe inspiring gourmet chef prepared meals, we sadly exited the Union Jack in Campbell River. We were completely spoiled with 5 Star service on the Union Jack, I highly recommend you try this adventure.
Written July 23, 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Wendy W
Victoria, Canada12 contributions
Jul 2019
Vancouver Island on the gorgeous West Coast of Canada, along with the nearby Gulf Islands, is a must see, and there is not a more authentic way to explore this exquisite coastal scenery than with Remote West Coast Adventures on the charming Union Jack. I feel so lucky to have spent 5 days onboard this beautifully refurbished 1941 historic tugboat for a family reunion in July 2019.
From the moment Neil picked us up at the dock in Sidney, B.C. safety was paramount. He helped us into the transfer boat, helped with our luggage (soft sided was recommended as it is easier to manage in and out of the vessel), and had lifejackets for all to wear as we then made our way to the start of our adventure! As soon as we left the marina, we saw the Union Jack anchored ahead and what a gorgeous sight! Pictures do not do her justice - she is exceptionally magnificent in person! All throughout our trip, we had other boaters complimenting us on this very special tug! Upon arriving on board we were given a very thorough safety briefing, met Captain Bosko and the deckhands, and settled into our home on the sea! I'm still in awe of how lovely this boat is, as well as the sounds of the engine and the birds and nature that surrounded us for our 5 magical days. We started out by exploring Sidney Spit before heading out to the Gulf Islands. Every night we anchored in a gorgeous bay near a different Gulf Island, which was planned around our interests. What beautiful sights we saw as each day we were immersed in well-planned out adventures. We rented bikes on Saturna Island and biked to East Point where we had a picnic overlooking the sea! On Galiano Island we rented mopeds and explored so many beautiful lookouts, along with getting to see the Kunamokst Mural, a mesmerizing mosaic mural made in collaboration by over 180 artists (including Robert Bateman) to celebrate the natural beauty of this area. On another day, we were in a secluded inlet and spent time swimming off the boat and kayaking on kayaks provided by the crew. That was so serene and memorable, as there were eagles and seals all around. We explored the remote uninhabited beach and rocky outcrop - just so beautiful. On that afternoon as we left the beach area, Neil had heard from the Captain that there were whales nearby. We just happened to be in the right place at the right time (I'm sure by the magic of the incredible Captain Bosko) to witness these magnificent animals. We could see them gently cresting the water as they slowly made their way by from where we were a safe distance away in the small runabout boat. We could hear their sounds, their breathing, and were in total awe of their beauty. It took about 20-30 minutes for them to pass, and at that time I was moved to tears, as it was such a sublime experience that I am so grateful to have been part of. We also had a day planned for fishing, prawning and crabbing on a local fisherman's boat. That was amazing. It was so exciting to pull up the traps, measure the crabs, and unload the prawns to see what our catch was! We all took part in shelling the prawns - great experience! Back onboard the Union Jack we had an incredible final night seafood feast! The time spent onboard was so special.
The tug itself is beautifully restored, and the galley was always stocked with drinks and snacks upon our return after time ashore. Meals onboard were delicious, fresh, and locally sourced. My room was very comfortable with mattresses custom-made for the bunks along with a private sink. The portholes allowed for lovely evening and morning views! I loved getting ready for bed to the gentle movement of the sea and being able to see the stars and the moon from my room. There were many washrooms (heads) onboard, with mine being right across the hall from my stateroom, which I had to myself. Lots of comfortable outdoor space to sit and enjoy the scenery whether anchored or at sea. Captain Bosko had so many fascinating stories of his years navigating in the area, and always put our safety first. The memories we made on this very special trip will always fill me with such joy! This tug is a treasure unto itself. My time onboard, and exploring this exquisite coastal area with family and the incredible crew of the Union Jack, will always be some of my most precious memories. Thank you, Neil, Susan, Captain Bosko and crew for this incredible experience! I hope to spend time again on this very special tugboat with family and friends! Amazing experience!
From the moment Neil picked us up at the dock in Sidney, B.C. safety was paramount. He helped us into the transfer boat, helped with our luggage (soft sided was recommended as it is easier to manage in and out of the vessel), and had lifejackets for all to wear as we then made our way to the start of our adventure! As soon as we left the marina, we saw the Union Jack anchored ahead and what a gorgeous sight! Pictures do not do her justice - she is exceptionally magnificent in person! All throughout our trip, we had other boaters complimenting us on this very special tug! Upon arriving on board we were given a very thorough safety briefing, met Captain Bosko and the deckhands, and settled into our home on the sea! I'm still in awe of how lovely this boat is, as well as the sounds of the engine and the birds and nature that surrounded us for our 5 magical days. We started out by exploring Sidney Spit before heading out to the Gulf Islands. Every night we anchored in a gorgeous bay near a different Gulf Island, which was planned around our interests. What beautiful sights we saw as each day we were immersed in well-planned out adventures. We rented bikes on Saturna Island and biked to East Point where we had a picnic overlooking the sea! On Galiano Island we rented mopeds and explored so many beautiful lookouts, along with getting to see the Kunamokst Mural, a mesmerizing mosaic mural made in collaboration by over 180 artists (including Robert Bateman) to celebrate the natural beauty of this area. On another day, we were in a secluded inlet and spent time swimming off the boat and kayaking on kayaks provided by the crew. That was so serene and memorable, as there were eagles and seals all around. We explored the remote uninhabited beach and rocky outcrop - just so beautiful. On that afternoon as we left the beach area, Neil had heard from the Captain that there were whales nearby. We just happened to be in the right place at the right time (I'm sure by the magic of the incredible Captain Bosko) to witness these magnificent animals. We could see them gently cresting the water as they slowly made their way by from where we were a safe distance away in the small runabout boat. We could hear their sounds, their breathing, and were in total awe of their beauty. It took about 20-30 minutes for them to pass, and at that time I was moved to tears, as it was such a sublime experience that I am so grateful to have been part of. We also had a day planned for fishing, prawning and crabbing on a local fisherman's boat. That was amazing. It was so exciting to pull up the traps, measure the crabs, and unload the prawns to see what our catch was! We all took part in shelling the prawns - great experience! Back onboard the Union Jack we had an incredible final night seafood feast! The time spent onboard was so special.
The tug itself is beautifully restored, and the galley was always stocked with drinks and snacks upon our return after time ashore. Meals onboard were delicious, fresh, and locally sourced. My room was very comfortable with mattresses custom-made for the bunks along with a private sink. The portholes allowed for lovely evening and morning views! I loved getting ready for bed to the gentle movement of the sea and being able to see the stars and the moon from my room. There were many washrooms (heads) onboard, with mine being right across the hall from my stateroom, which I had to myself. Lots of comfortable outdoor space to sit and enjoy the scenery whether anchored or at sea. Captain Bosko had so many fascinating stories of his years navigating in the area, and always put our safety first. The memories we made on this very special trip will always fill me with such joy! This tug is a treasure unto itself. My time onboard, and exploring this exquisite coastal area with family and the incredible crew of the Union Jack, will always be some of my most precious memories. Thank you, Neil, Susan, Captain Bosko and crew for this incredible experience! I hope to spend time again on this very special tugboat with family and friends! Amazing experience!
Written January 12, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Hi 784WendyW784,
Thank you for taking the time to write such a detailed review about your experience exploring Vancouver Island and the Southern Gulf Islands! We love hearing about how our crew were able to create an unforgettable trip from start to finish. Our goal is to always showcase the natural, wild beauty of British Columbia along with the culture and vibrant communities that makeup our west coast. We are also thrilled to hear that you found your time aboard the Union Jack to be comfortable and that you were able to encounter some of the area's majestic wildlife.
Thank you again for the feedback and we can't wait to have you on board again soon!
Sincerely,
Brianna
Business Development
Written January 13, 2020
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Norm
5 contributions
May 2019
The Union Jack is part of the West Coast marine history and is of great interest to me. The Union Jack also provided access to British Columbia's awesome coastal scenery. This definitely was a must do on my bucket list and if possible a do over.
Written December 22, 2019
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Hi NormRed,
Thank you for sharing your experience aboard our vessel, the Union Jack. With its historic design and modern amenities, the Union Jack is made for adventure and is the perfect option for discovering BC's stunning coast.
We look forward to having you on board with us again soon.
Best Regards,
Brianna
Business Development
Written December 23, 2019
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Orelhao
14 contributions
Jul 2019
I had the opportunity to stay on the Union Jack for five days this past summer (July 2019) for a shakedown cruise. The boat, a restored 1941 tug, was the perfect size for all 9 of us onboard. My husband and were the only couple for this voyage so we were lucky enough to have the suite on one of the upper decks behind the wheelhouse, and of course while it was the size you'd expect for a boat, it was super comfortable and we both slept like babies. Our trip took us to a few different Southern Gulf Islands (Saturna and Ganges were but two) and we had a different activity each day (biking, kayaking, moped rental, etc.- and everything was tailored to guests' comfort level and instruction included). The crew was professional- safety first- but always approachable, helpful and friendly. Super good vibes all around, and I learned a lot about the boat itself from Neil (owner and engine guru) and Bosko (captain), and saw this gorgeous and amazing area up close. Our final full day included a fishing trip with a guide and dinner with our huge catches of prawns and crab. This part of BC is incredible especially if you like the outdoors, but it was the people who really made this trip. I hope I have a chance to take a trip on the Union Jack again. Thank you Neil, Bosko, Steve, Dario, and Susan! :)
Written December 9, 2019
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Hi Orelhao,
Thank you very much for this amazing review! We were thrilled to have you and your husband aboard the Union Jack as you toured the Southern Gulf Islands. We also appreciate hearing how you found your stay to be comfortable and relaxing. We have spent the last few years renovating the boat to ensure that our guests are able to tour BC's coast in luxury.
Overall it sounds like you had an amazing trip filled with great experiences and we look forward to having you on tour again with us soon!
Sincerely,
Brianna Alexander
Business Development
Written December 9, 2019
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Teapot
5 contributions
May 2019
On a recent holiday around BC’s Gulf Islands with Remote West Coast Adventures, I could not get over how visually stunning and awe inspiring the surroundings were. Being on the newly refurbished Union Jack didn’t hurt either, with its beautiful teak and polished brass features. It’s a piece of Vancouver’s maritime history. The boat or rather, yacht, is so solid that I never once had any sea sickness and I was able to sleep like a baby in my state room.
I particularly loved the decks where we you could enjoy the views of the islands, sailboats passing by, the fresh salt air, and wildlife. We saw humpback whales, seals, otters, eagles, and many other kinds of birds. In the morning we would sit on the deck with a coffee watching the sunrise, and in the evening, we would hang out with a glass of wine watching the sunset over the water. The kayaks were good fun. They allowed us to get close to the islands where you could see nesting eagles and the seals would pop up their heads to check us out too. We were able to go hiking on a couple islands and get a bird’s eye view from the top of the hills.
The crew was super friendly and knowledgeable. They took us to several different islands, but I particularly enjoyed Salt Spring. We went to the Saturday Market where the local vendors sell handcrafted art, pottery, baked goods, spices, organic farm cheeses, honey and more. I bought spices and body lotion.
Adding to the perfect trip were the incredible chef creations served every day. Breakfast was huge and varied so you had lots of energy to carry you through the day’s activities. But dinner… oh my! The dinners were absolutely heavenly. We were served enticing appetizers, local greens and veggies, fresh caught seafood, and decadent desserts. Every day was something new and delicious.
Getting on the boat instantly transitioned me into holiday mode and touring around the islands made me realize what a paradise the west coast of British Columbia is. Thank you to the crew of Remote West Coast Adventures, I will definitely do this again with friends and family.
I particularly loved the decks where we you could enjoy the views of the islands, sailboats passing by, the fresh salt air, and wildlife. We saw humpback whales, seals, otters, eagles, and many other kinds of birds. In the morning we would sit on the deck with a coffee watching the sunrise, and in the evening, we would hang out with a glass of wine watching the sunset over the water. The kayaks were good fun. They allowed us to get close to the islands where you could see nesting eagles and the seals would pop up their heads to check us out too. We were able to go hiking on a couple islands and get a bird’s eye view from the top of the hills.
The crew was super friendly and knowledgeable. They took us to several different islands, but I particularly enjoyed Salt Spring. We went to the Saturday Market where the local vendors sell handcrafted art, pottery, baked goods, spices, organic farm cheeses, honey and more. I bought spices and body lotion.
Adding to the perfect trip were the incredible chef creations served every day. Breakfast was huge and varied so you had lots of energy to carry you through the day’s activities. But dinner… oh my! The dinners were absolutely heavenly. We were served enticing appetizers, local greens and veggies, fresh caught seafood, and decadent desserts. Every day was something new and delicious.
Getting on the boat instantly transitioned me into holiday mode and touring around the islands made me realize what a paradise the west coast of British Columbia is. Thank you to the crew of Remote West Coast Adventures, I will definitely do this again with friends and family.
Written December 1, 2019
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Hi travellingthirst,
Thank you for sharing your experience aboard your tour of the Southern Gulf Islands. This region is a popular destination for both locals and visitors as travellers can explore the vibrant communities such as on Salt Spring Island while enjoying the spectacular scenery and wildlife.
We will also thrilled to hear how you enjoyed the meals served on board the Union Jack. Our chef sources from local vendors to create the freshest dishes for our guests to enjoy.
Thank you again and we can't wait to have you on tour again with us soon!
Sincerely,
Brianna Alexander
Business Development
Written December 2, 2019
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Terry P
Kelowna, Canada8 contributions
Sept 2019 • Friends
We were lucky enough to be invited on the maiden voyage of the Union Jack by Mark and Neil, (Principles) and skippered by Bosko. From the moment we saw her in False Creek we were blown away. Picked up in luxury in a beautiful tender and whisked over to the Union Jack for an unforgettable experience. We were treated like Royalty. As we boarded, we were met by a knowledgeable and enthusiastic crew and given a wonderful tour. “Jack” is a piece of living history, from her all wood construction at 80 feet long, Six beautiful state rooms for 12 guests, modern galley, dinning room complete with beautiful solid brass port hole windows, and featuring both open and enclosed/covered decks at the stern. At the heart is an amazing Union Diesel engine from days gone by with a slow and relaxing pulse like you would expect from a Blue Whale.
The service, quality and preparation of food, selection of wine and spirits would rival the finest of restaurants anywhere.
We look forward to returning with friends and for staff functions.
The service, quality and preparation of food, selection of wine and spirits would rival the finest of restaurants anywhere.
We look forward to returning with friends and for staff functions.
Written November 28, 2019
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Hi terryp919,
Thank you for taking the time to share your experience aboard the Union Jack! Our team was thrilled to hear that we were able to create a one of a kind cruising and dining experience for your group. While our ship is an authentic piece of BC history, our vision was to transform this antique tugboat into the perfect vessel for any adventure with the comfort of modern amenities.
We look forward to having you on board again with us soon.
Sincerely,
Brianna Alexander
Business Development
Written November 29, 2019
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Tim
Napa, CA11 contributions
Oct 2019
Our trip, a group of 8 had an amazing time onboard "Union Jack" with skipper Bosko and mates (owners) Mark and Neil. "Union Jack" is a beautifully restored 1941 tug boat with a feeling of more history than HSMBC might know, recently retrofitted over the past 4 years. She now accommodates 12 guests / 6 staterooms. It was one of their first trips and things ran so smooth that you'd think they've been doing this for years. We had cocktails on the back deck with entertainment with the crew, out of wind and weather... we were lucky with clear skies and little wind. The chef offered fabulous hors d' oeuvres of Charcuterie and po-po's and a dinner that was as sumptuous and varied, presented as perfect as any fine dining restaurant. Just being out on this grand boat gave a sense of history and sense of early days on Burrard Inlet and the Strait of Georgia. This is a big boat very little motion or movement felt during our cruise and at anchor. We plan to bring our company back for a corporate retreat for those few lucky employees next time. We have made a life long friendship with the crew of Union Jack.
Written November 20, 2019
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Hi darrinadventures,
On behalf of the entire Remote West Coast Adventures team, we would like to thank you for sharing such amazing feedback about your experience aboard the Union Jack, along with being the first to review our company!
As you mentioned in your comments, our ship is a beautifully restored historic vessel that makes you feel like you are travelling back in time. Combined with our crew, made up of a team of passionate individuals who love adventure and showing off our beautiful province, our goal is to provide opportunities to WOW our guests. So we are thrilled to hear that we were able to make your trip so memorable.
Thank you again for your kind review and we hope to have you on-board for another adventure soon.
Best Regards,
Brianna Alexander
Business Development
Written November 20, 2019
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
No questions have been asked about this experience