Get West Day Adventure Cruises
Get West Day Adventure Cruises
Get West Day Adventure Cruises
5
Full view
About
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
2023
Suggest edits to improve what we show.
Improve this listingSimilar Experiences
Get West Day Adventure Cruises
Booking unavailable on Tripadvisor
Want other options you can book now?
Show optionsTravellers talk about
(41 reviews)
(78 reviews)
(35 reviews)
Contribute
Detailed Reviews: Reviews order informed by descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as cleanliness, atmosphere, general tips and location information.
Popular mentions
5.0
345 reviews
Excellent
296
Very good
39
Average
3
Poor
6
Terrible
1
Catwhowalksbyherself
Richmond British Columbia30 contributions
Sep. 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.
George B
2 contributions
Oct. 2023 • Couples
This was a memorable day out! The crew were really friendly and welcoming, and made us feel safe and comfortable. The landscapes were sublime and it was fascinating to get an insight into livelihoods on the west coast. One thing to be mindful of is that from October onwards (I believe), these day trips don't go as far as Nootka Island/Friendly Cove. We booked thinking we'd be going so double check beforehand! Thank you to the crew - this was absolutely brilliant!
Written November 10, 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.
Patricia D
LAKE COWICHAN1 contribution
Oct. 2023 • Couples
The crew was great. The food was excellent. We were very disappointed to see only fish farms. We were led to believe we'd go up Nootka Sound but we only went to the lodge then turned around and headed home only to stop at more fish farms. The loading and unloading process took the biggest part of the day. Very boring except for the great hospitality.
Written October 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.
J M
1 contribution
Sep. 2023 • Friends
Very pleasant day on the water, drizzly, but that added to the atmosphere and it was comfortable and cozy inside. Stopped at 4 fish farms, didn't appear to be anything/anyone else out there (unlike the trip up the Alberni Inlet where there are houseboats, homes, post office). Stops were 20 minutes+ long.
Written September 25, 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.
Sarah P
1 contribution
Sep. 2023 • Family
We just did the Tuesday excursion from Gold River to Nootka Sound and back. Excellent trip. We stopped at fish farms for delivery and pick up of goods. Even though the weather wasn't the greatest, they have a tarp over the upper outside deck on the boat and inside seating on the lower level. Loved watching the Captain and crew unload and load the goods. They are very skilled. Highly recommend.
Written September 23, 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.
Jos P
Maple Ridge, Canada78 contributions
Sep. 2023 • Family
Our much anticipated day on the Uchuck lll was scheduled for Tuesday, September 12. The day started wet but that's BC for you! Water in the ocean, water falling from the sky. That's why we have such wonderful rain forests.
I'm drifting. Sorry. Back to the ship. We arrived fairly early because we (my husband, a family friend and myself) wanted to see the freighter being loaded. We were in awe about the accuracy the lady at the controls maneuvered the load onto the ship. The rest of the team, including the captain, wasted no time getting everything on board, on time, and in the right order.
Once we were allowed on board, we checked out the seating areas and changed our wet jackets for dry ones (thinking ahead...).
At 9:00 AM we left the dock. And who says one needs sun to enjoy the sights? The rainy, misty skies offered mysterious views. It was truly breathtaking.
On this trip we unloaded (and sometimes loaded) goods at three fish farms and the Nootka Sound Resort. Again, the harmony and efficiency between delivery and receiving parties was amazing.
Of course we kept our eyes peeled for wildlife. I spotted an otter, sealion, and a seal (and a bear, once we left the Uchuck lll upon returning home, on the side of the road).
The service was excellent and very friendly: from the beginning (at the office) to the end, saying our good-byes to those hard-working people.
Thank you for letting us share a day with you.
We thoroughly enjoyed it.
I'm drifting. Sorry. Back to the ship. We arrived fairly early because we (my husband, a family friend and myself) wanted to see the freighter being loaded. We were in awe about the accuracy the lady at the controls maneuvered the load onto the ship. The rest of the team, including the captain, wasted no time getting everything on board, on time, and in the right order.
Once we were allowed on board, we checked out the seating areas and changed our wet jackets for dry ones (thinking ahead...).
At 9:00 AM we left the dock. And who says one needs sun to enjoy the sights? The rainy, misty skies offered mysterious views. It was truly breathtaking.
On this trip we unloaded (and sometimes loaded) goods at three fish farms and the Nootka Sound Resort. Again, the harmony and efficiency between delivery and receiving parties was amazing.
Of course we kept our eyes peeled for wildlife. I spotted an otter, sealion, and a seal (and a bear, once we left the Uchuck lll upon returning home, on the side of the road).
The service was excellent and very friendly: from the beginning (at the office) to the end, saying our good-byes to those hard-working people.
Thank you for letting us share a day with you.
We thoroughly enjoyed it.
Written September 18, 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.
Rose W
1 contribution
Sep. 2023 • Friends
This is a reset your system and relax trip like none other. Scenery out here f this world. Bear, whales and otters. Cook was grouchy but her food good.
Written September 16, 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.
Sightseer08759492574
2 contributions
Aug. 2023 • Family
Safe & organized way to see & experience the stunning & historical west coast. Great staff & amenities. Billeted overnight with locals. Included was best halibut fish & chips, salads at local restaurant.
Written September 2, 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.
keepingitsimple2017
5 contributions
Aug. 2023 • Friends
Great experience! Friendly, knowledgable staff, delicious food in the cafeteria, and lots of time (3 hours) to explore Friendly Cove.
Written August 31, 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.
the hair J
1 contribution
Aug. 2023 • Family
Well organized, plenty of seating,spotlessly clean, delicious dark roast coffee, and chilli. Fantastic friendly staff. Along the way we saw a bear on shore that the captain pointed out, humpback whales put on a show. Friendly Cove is BEAUTIFUL!! I could have stayed all day but appreciate the 3 hrs we had. The beaches, tidal pools and rocks were amazing!! If you love exploring the history of our Indigenous people and nature, don’t miss this adventure!
Written August 27, 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.
b0v
Liverpool, UK18 contributions
How was the overnight accommodation? We are planning a trip in June and would like to prepare. Thank you
jacqueline s
Victoria, Canada1 contribution
how does this work exactly?
yyesiamtrish2
Victoria, Canada1,370 contributions
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.
lauriebee
Comox Valley, Canada29 contributions
Trying to decide whether to do the Friendly cove route or Kyuquot . Any opinions or pros or cons?
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.
Heather G
Toronto, Canada7 contributions
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!
Arandee
Blenheim, New Zealand133 contributions
We also stayed at the Gold River Chalet. Highly recommend it for the same reasons as below.
Retired60UnionBay_BC
Union Bay, BC10 contributions
Is the crab $45 PER PERSON, or can a couple order it for the same price?
Pamela B
Windsor, Canada6 contributions
I have no idea what crab has to do with taking a cruise on the MV Uchuck III Sorry, can't help you.
Marylou S
Victoria, Canada
What days of the week are the tours availale
Medicsteele
Gold River, Canada8 contributions
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.
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)?
Neil H
Courtenay, British Columbia, Canada3 contributions
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!