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The MV Uchuck III, a 136-foot passenger and freight vessel providing service through Vancouver Island's historic Nootka Sound, Esperanza Inlet and Kyuquot Sound. Relax and enjoy the beautiful scenery of the Wild West Coast as you tour its inlets, witness the MV Uchuck III deliver freight to remote fish farms, logging camps and remote resorts. Our schedule provides day cruises through some of Vancouver Island's most spectacular scenery, perfect for a short adventure or family vacation. Explore the shores and waterways of isolated inlets, and see a variety of wildlife - black bears, eagles, sea otters, Pacific dolphins, gray and killer whales. Like to get adventurous? Take advantage of the Uchuck's route to wet launch your kayak or be dropped off at the Nootka trailhead for a four to five day hiking trip along Vancouver Island's most remote and pristine coastal trail - without the long wait list of the famed West Coast Trail.
Gold River, British Columbia, Canada
Awards
Travellers' Choice
2024
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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.
Popular mentions
5.0
356 reviews
Excellent
306
Very good
40
Average
3
Poor
6
Terrible
1
Cheryl M
Victoria, Canada28 contributions
Jul 2020
We booked return transport for a kayak trip to Nuchatlitz Provincial Park on the West Coast of BC, Nootka Island. The crew was professional and friendly. Dave, Bob, Christine and Captain Spencer all were very helpful and easily struck up conversation. The trip down the inlets was rainy on the way out and full sun on the way back. Stopping along the way to drop supplies and pick up outgoing items was a great way to appreciate how much less 'just in time' there is in these small communities and on the various fish farms that dot the inlets. We would definitely use them again and travel on the Uchuck III.
Written July 26, 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.
EvianaJones
Evian-les-Bains, France73 contributions
Aug 2022
Traveling the extra distance to Kyuquot is a real leap beyond the everyday, and a fascinating insight into remote coastal living.
The stunning scenery, the wildlife, and the immense scale of the forests, mountains and inlets made it a spectacular trip. Whales, bears, otters, eagles and birds were abundant and we loved the adventurous stretches of ocean as we traversed the outer islands.
The professional crew were all friendly and approachable, all the way up to the engaging and confidence-inspiring Captain Spencer.
Our fellow voyagers were a terrific and assorted bunch which made for interesting conversation and enthusiastic spotting of wildlife along the way.
Over dinner at the Inn, we were given a brief rundown of life and facts about Kyuquot, the effort required to get there in the first place, and how to furnish and supply the residents as well as seasonal visitors, fishermen, kayakers, etc. All very convivial. Everyone raved about our menu including fresh halibut, french fries, salads, and home baked desserts.
Julie, our main contact during booking our trip, was patient and helpful while she juggled to match visitors to hosts. In particular she was always open about the range of limited accommodations that would be available on a given sailing date so we knew well ahead of time what to expect.
In our case our group of 3 had a house and shared a bathroom with plenty of hot water. The owner is in the process of renovating and the bedrooms have new carpets, furniture and beds. Other parts of the house are a work in progress. We found the house to be comfortable, with essential mosquito screens on the windows, and absolutely fine for a one night stay.
Others travelers were variously put up in the Inn, at fishing lodges, a tiny house, and (I think) a bed and breakfast. Some were escorted by boat to their lodgings. Everyone survived! and had tales to tell about the Kyuquot day to day reality of obtaining eg. electricity, supplies and groceries involving long boat journeys, as well as the beauty of the bay, its hidden beach and the generous vibe of the community.
All in all, we are so glad we managed to get one of the few places on the very popular overnight trip on the MV Uchuck III, and we consider it to be a highlight among a lifetime of traveling to far flung places.
Highly recommended!
Tips: we stayed at the Gold River Chalet (well maintained and impeccably clean), and we enjoyed the Sea&Field Bistro (good quality fresh food) the night before we embarked.
The stunning scenery, the wildlife, and the immense scale of the forests, mountains and inlets made it a spectacular trip. Whales, bears, otters, eagles and birds were abundant and we loved the adventurous stretches of ocean as we traversed the outer islands.
The professional crew were all friendly and approachable, all the way up to the engaging and confidence-inspiring Captain Spencer.
Our fellow voyagers were a terrific and assorted bunch which made for interesting conversation and enthusiastic spotting of wildlife along the way.
Over dinner at the Inn, we were given a brief rundown of life and facts about Kyuquot, the effort required to get there in the first place, and how to furnish and supply the residents as well as seasonal visitors, fishermen, kayakers, etc. All very convivial. Everyone raved about our menu including fresh halibut, french fries, salads, and home baked desserts.
Julie, our main contact during booking our trip, was patient and helpful while she juggled to match visitors to hosts. In particular she was always open about the range of limited accommodations that would be available on a given sailing date so we knew well ahead of time what to expect.
In our case our group of 3 had a house and shared a bathroom with plenty of hot water. The owner is in the process of renovating and the bedrooms have new carpets, furniture and beds. Other parts of the house are a work in progress. We found the house to be comfortable, with essential mosquito screens on the windows, and absolutely fine for a one night stay.
Others travelers were variously put up in the Inn, at fishing lodges, a tiny house, and (I think) a bed and breakfast. Some were escorted by boat to their lodgings. Everyone survived! and had tales to tell about the Kyuquot day to day reality of obtaining eg. electricity, supplies and groceries involving long boat journeys, as well as the beauty of the bay, its hidden beach and the generous vibe of the community.
All in all, we are so glad we managed to get one of the few places on the very popular overnight trip on the MV Uchuck III, and we consider it to be a highlight among a lifetime of traveling to far flung places.
Highly recommended!
Tips: we stayed at the Gold River Chalet (well maintained and impeccably clean), and we enjoyed the Sea&Field Bistro (good quality fresh food) the night before we embarked.
Written August 27, 2022
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.
TeachersTravel
Comox, Canada149 contributions
Sept 2022
We are two senior ladies who live 2 hours from Gold River. We took the one day trip to Friendly Cove. We had read previous reviews so we knew to prepare for rain, make a lunch and bring camera, binoculars and sense of wonder. We met fascinating travellers on the ship, both on our way out and on the return. There were day trippers like ourselves, but lots of experienced hikers...those who hike for a week or more at a time, in the back country....and who are willing to share their tales. We lunched at Friendly Cove then walked the trail that parallels the beach. It meanders about 2 kilometers past Aboriginal cemeteries, vacant cabins, a lake and ends in tidal pools. You are advised to make use of your time here, as there is much of interest at this site...the church, the carver, the beach, the trail and the tidal pools. Respect the area that the Nuu-chah-nulth people are sharing.
Written September 5, 2022
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.
Traveler439559
2 contributions
Sept 2021
I was very disappointed! After delivery to 1 Salmon Farm Fish I discovered that was all that was going to happen. I was under the impression that we would be delivering to small villages or communities. Also the fact that Farm Fishing owned by Norwegian company is Not ecological safe for the environment.
I felt that our fare basically paid the wages of the staff on board.
The upside The homemade chili, soup, sandwiches, muffins etc were delicious and very reasonably priced.
Not a mammal sighting either,
Would not recommend
Accommodations in Gold River were also poor!
Save your $
I felt that our fare basically paid the wages of the staff on board.
The upside The homemade chili, soup, sandwiches, muffins etc were delicious and very reasonably priced.
Not a mammal sighting either,
Would not recommend
Accommodations in Gold River were also poor!
Save your $
Written September 23, 2021
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.
dukefan1965
Surrey, Canada45 contributions
Aug 2020
Last week, we spent two days on the MV Uchuck... wow, what an experience. I would highly recommend the two day/1 night trip to Kyuquot, as we did. I can't say enough about the professionalism and safety of the crew, Captain Spencer greeted every passenger, supervised unloading and loading, and made everyone feel welcome. Our cook, Laura, was awesome: she made cookies, great breakfasts, wonderful chili and chowder, and the most incredible Yorkshire puddings to go with roast beef that you have ever seen. During our journey, we saw many black bears foraging on the beaches, rafts of sea otters, a humpback whale, sea lions, eagles, river otters and more. During the trip to various logging camps and fish farms, it was fascinating to watch the loading and unloading procedures of kayakers, groceries, fuel, fish feed, etc. The scenery was breathtaking, and the rugged beauty of Nootka sound has to be seen to be believed. The entire crew takes COVID precautions very seriously, and with relatively few passengers on the 140 foot MV Uchuck, you will feel like it is your own personalized trip. This is a trip that is a MUST for people who love British Columbia.
Written August 25, 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.
Ron Armstrong
2 contributions
Oct 2020
The hospitality and friendship of both dock staff(Julie)and crew:--Captain Spenser, Mate Christine, Cook Laura, Engineer Frank and Deckhand Dave. All made my wife Karen and I welcome.
This welcome was back dropped by the worst storm they had all experienced. White caps in the harbour were unusual. As we and another couple sat waiting for "the word" Laura gave us free coffee and muffins. Then Spenser told us two fish farms radioed it was too rough for docking . Then the Kendrick Arm logging show called to say two trees had blown down and they were quitting for the day.
So Spenser said, regrettably, he was cancelling the cruise. At that Julie gave us company hoodies for free in compensation(cost is $25 each). However the ship had to make the run tomorrow. Did we want to come? Once Spenser confirmed they'd be back by noon we jumped at the chance(because it was a 5 hour drive back to Victoria.
So next day we sailed at 7 am in weather completely different. Calm sea and eventually sunshine. We watched as the crew off loaded huge bales of fish feed at the two fish farms. Then back to the harbour at 11:20. We got home at 6:30 after stopping for lunch at the "Sea and Field" brand new restaurant(excellent food and service) and gas in Duncan.
We are so glad we stayed over. If we had this good a time in terrible weather one day then a trip on this 78 year old(!) workhorse with her warm and friendly crew can please any time of the year.
Ron and Karen Armstrong
This welcome was back dropped by the worst storm they had all experienced. White caps in the harbour were unusual. As we and another couple sat waiting for "the word" Laura gave us free coffee and muffins. Then Spenser told us two fish farms radioed it was too rough for docking . Then the Kendrick Arm logging show called to say two trees had blown down and they were quitting for the day.
So Spenser said, regrettably, he was cancelling the cruise. At that Julie gave us company hoodies for free in compensation(cost is $25 each). However the ship had to make the run tomorrow. Did we want to come? Once Spenser confirmed they'd be back by noon we jumped at the chance(because it was a 5 hour drive back to Victoria.
So next day we sailed at 7 am in weather completely different. Calm sea and eventually sunshine. We watched as the crew off loaded huge bales of fish feed at the two fish farms. Then back to the harbour at 11:20. We got home at 6:30 after stopping for lunch at the "Sea and Field" brand new restaurant(excellent food and service) and gas in Duncan.
We are so glad we stayed over. If we had this good a time in terrible weather one day then a trip on this 78 year old(!) workhorse with her warm and friendly crew can please any time of the year.
Ron and Karen Armstrong
Written October 15, 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.
haggar5050
Victoria73 contributions
Sept 2021
From the warm greeting at 6:45 am on September 2nd to the sad disembarkation early in the evening on September 3rd, our journey to Kyuquot and return was filled with amazing sights and tasty adventures. Numerous whale and otter sightings. The captain provided “whale Alerts” and a history lesson for the many points of interest we passed. There were at least a dozen stops along the way, dropping off essential supplies at logging camps and fish farms. The Kayak loading with the paddler still in the Kayak is fun to watch.
The cook (She should be called a Chef) in her 4’X8’ galley is where the magic continued, Full breakfasts, a multi course dinner, the tempting smell of fresh baked blueberry muffins and warm chocolate chip cookies, were enough to forget about dieting for a couple of days.
The cook (She should be called a Chef) in her 4’X8’ galley is where the magic continued, Full breakfasts, a multi course dinner, the tempting smell of fresh baked blueberry muffins and warm chocolate chip cookies, were enough to forget about dieting for a couple of days.
Written September 6, 2021
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.
J7954OHwilliams
16 contributions
Aug 2022
The cruise trip was great. The land accommodations much below par (see last section ). Weather held so no rain which might have put a “damper” on things. Lots of room on the ship, both below deck and in the covered upper deck. The captain was gracious allowing guests to get a view from the control station and answered all questions. Food was prepped in time and was amazing from such a small kitchen. Chef made great muffins beside the usual sandwiches, bacon, eggs,, etc.
We had a smooth ride which I guess is not always the case. Also the ship going up was almost solely ours - a group of 14. Although it can accommodate many more only a couple of other kayakers were let off on the way up. Thirty much younger hikers joined us on the way down. But we got together for a 60’s sing along so no problems there.
Animals were few, but we saw a bear foraging on the shore and maybe one whale back. But many smiles were seen as a “raft” of sea otters floated by and much laughter when one or two glided by on their backs with their “panda” bear smiles and black noses without a care in the world.
So the cruise is highly recommended, and Kyuquot region is as beautiful as the wild region seen from the ship. Seals bobbing, sea otters playing and eagles crying overhead. True wilderness experience. But I guess wilderness means no five star resorts, but we hoped for more. The company cannot control what isn’t there, but do not expect anything but 2 star or less sleeping. And despite the fact that we had reserved for 14 originally in the lodge, we were outbid by a longer stay fishing group so our group was housed all over in “tiny” homes, bedrooms in private house, etc. Some of our group enjoyed the experience of living with locals, but others were looking forward to a cleaner , refreshing experience in keeping with the solitude of the outdoor environment. Buts it’s a short stay so only slightly diminished the experience leading to my 4 star and not 5 star
We had a smooth ride which I guess is not always the case. Also the ship going up was almost solely ours - a group of 14. Although it can accommodate many more only a couple of other kayakers were let off on the way up. Thirty much younger hikers joined us on the way down. But we got together for a 60’s sing along so no problems there.
Animals were few, but we saw a bear foraging on the shore and maybe one whale back. But many smiles were seen as a “raft” of sea otters floated by and much laughter when one or two glided by on their backs with their “panda” bear smiles and black noses without a care in the world.
So the cruise is highly recommended, and Kyuquot region is as beautiful as the wild region seen from the ship. Seals bobbing, sea otters playing and eagles crying overhead. True wilderness experience. But I guess wilderness means no five star resorts, but we hoped for more. The company cannot control what isn’t there, but do not expect anything but 2 star or less sleeping. And despite the fact that we had reserved for 14 originally in the lodge, we were outbid by a longer stay fishing group so our group was housed all over in “tiny” homes, bedrooms in private house, etc. Some of our group enjoyed the experience of living with locals, but others were looking forward to a cleaner , refreshing experience in keeping with the solitude of the outdoor environment. Buts it’s a short stay so only slightly diminished the experience leading to my 4 star and not 5 star
Written August 15, 2022
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.
Catwhowalksbyherself
Richmond British Columbia30 contributions
Sept 2023 • Couples
For our third time as guests of Get West Adventure Cruises, we again chose the sailing to and from the village of Kyuquot. Each of our trips was in a different month and aboard a different incarnation of MV Uchuck, a succession of small freighters plying the waters of Nootka Sound and beyond. Uchuck III is roomy, providing several spacious booths and benches indoors as well as bench seating on the large, covered back deck. The busy galley offered generous breakfasts, delicious lunch items, and a wide selection of beverages. Passengers are welcome to bring their own snacks and meals. Meanwhile, the friendly crew busily multitasked. En route through connecting channels to the rolling Pacific Ocean (anti-nausea bracelets advised), scheduled stops brought us to a range of locations to deliver or load items, drawing a crowd of onboard overseers. Nearing our final destination, Uchuck wended through narrow passageways to suddenly emerge into the harbour at Kyuquot, languidly observed by two sea otters, apparently permanent residents. As soon as the ship was moored, a passenger was lowered over the side in his kayak, loaded with every necessity for a couple of weeks’ paddling and camping his way back south. Guest accommodation was assigned on arrival, with just enough time to settle in before heading out for dinner. Gathering in a rustic, shoreside restaurant, we were fed by a gifted cook and an enthusiastic local couple who served up platters of freshly prepared, battered halibut accompanied by huge bowls of fries and coleslaw, followed by still-warm brownies! Afterward, guests used the fine evening to explore. Next morning’s departure was early, so breakfast was served on board. Part way back to Gold River, the ship was approached by a group of kayakers. Paddling onto a platform, each was hoisted aboard to join us on our return to port. Also featured on this leg of the journey was the opportunity for passengers to descend to the engine room for a tour; ear protectors provided. Wildlife appearances to and from Kyuquot were sudden, quick, and exciting, whether a black bear on shore, leaping salmon, a humpback cruising for a snack, a sea lion motoring past, a river otter heading to a fishing spot, or a sea otter paddling by. The scenery was somehow even more eye-catching on the return trip! By the time we arrived in port, we had met people from many different places. For an unforgettable experience, sign up for the Get West adventure cruise to Kyuquot.
Written November 14, 2023
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.
bill w
Nanaimo, Canada3 contributions
Mar 2021
Talented crew and captain Spencer, amazing cooperation as they loaded/unloaded. A pleasure to see a working boat as we visited fish farms and a logging camp. If you read up a bit on the history of the area it helps - the crew shared additional details. This was the last trip of the year before the annual refit and we were lucky to be outside in late March in the sun. Just our group of three and two other passengers aboard, we could only wonder how busy this day trip is in the summer. A perfect end of our five day camping trip to Gold River. Left at 9 AM, returned at 5:30 PM. Warm clothes still needed outside but a heater in the cabin was available. Almost all sheltered waters, so no pitch & roll on this route.
Written March 31, 2021
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.
How was the overnight accommodation? We are planning a trip in June and would like to prepare. Thank you
Written February 6, 2020
We did this in September and were so lucky to have a beautiful blue sky warm day. We arrived at Gold River the night before our one day trip on the Uchuck and stayed at a nearby hotel. There’s a great bar right beside that hotel. The dock was about a 15 minute drive away. You are a passenger on working boat, and you get to observe this activity while admiring the incredible scenery. You should bring binoculars. The top deck of the boat is open air but with a roof top cover and has bench seating. There is lots of room to bring a backpack, bringing a lap blanket, layers of clothing, gloves, would be helpful. When the boat is travelling, the wind can be chilly. When you go below the top deck there is another passenger area with the bathroom, a tiny cafe where you can buy the most amazing muffins, sandwiches, coffee, water etc. They take visa. And then there is booth style seating where you can sit and eat or take food back upstairs. The boat stops and delivers supplies at fish farms, lodges etc, (you can’t get off the boat) The return time back to dock would be a bit unpredictable based on the number of stops and cargo. I was amazed at how much cargo that boat can actually hold. I believe we got back around 7 pm. It was great west coast experience.
Written February 5, 2020
Trying to decide whether to do the Friendly cove route or Kyuquot . Any opinions or pros or cons?
Written June 15, 2019
We really enjoyed our trip to Nootka Sound. Learned so much about supplies being taken to fish farms, lodges etc. The crew was helpful and a wealth of knowledge. Always willing to talk to us., food very good. Next time we will take the Friendly cove route. Weather was perfect too.
Written July 3, 2019
I would like to know if you stayed in any local accommodations before or after your day trip? If so, would you recommend it? Thanks!
Written September 1, 2018
We also stayed at the Gold River Chalet. Highly recommend it for the same reasons as below.
Written September 1, 2018
Is the crab $45 PER PERSON, or can a couple order it for the same price?
Written September 21, 2015
I have no idea what crab has to do with taking a cruise on the MV Uchuck III Sorry, can't help you.
Written September 22, 2015
Wednesday and Saturdays. Saturday is the best as you get to spend more time at Friendly Cove.
And , they go to yuqulot on Thursdays, that's an overnight trip.
Great fun.
Written August 20, 2015
Marylou S
Victoria, Canada
What time do you depart and return?
Are reservations needed & if so, how far in advance?
Can you accommodate a senior with walker?
Do you pick up & deliver from our hotel?
When are the tours available (days & months)?
Written August 18, 2015
Departures and returns vary from trip to trip, all of that info is on our website.
Reservations are ALWAYS encouraged as we are experiencing a busy summer due to the fantastic weather.
We can accommodate a senior with a walker but keep in mind these are open seas and the vessel does rock so anyone with mobility issues should sit night and not walk around too much. There is a short flight of stairs to the Galley and upper deck.
tour schedule is on our website as well.
Thanks for inquiring, hope this helps!
Written August 18, 2015
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