Where to start - the day was looking like it was going to be very wet before we met up in the shop. Paul, our captain and guide for the trip, gave us all the option of a life jacket or the full suits. All chose the suits and I am glad I did as the boat (rigid hull dinghy) had two powerful outboard motors which meant it was fast and the wind felt a lot cooler at speed! The suits kept everyone dry and warm.
Paul gave an initial briefing of what to expect but also gave a knowledgeable talk around the ocean and ecosystem of the area. I learnt a lot in a very short space especially kelp beds and how much C02 they process (more than the rain forests!)
Earlier in the day there were humpback whales in the area which heightened everyone's excitement, unfortunately we did not spot any.
On the trundle out of the harbour Paul gave lots of interesting facts and cruising along to West Vancouver coast pointed out Will Smith's and also Robert De Niros houses.
There was also some history thrown in regarding the Spanish and English deciding who would take what land.
WE then went out past the lighthouse to an island (Seal Island?) where the seals were sitting on a relatively small rock, very nice to see them in their natural habitat along with thousands of sea skimming birds who took off as we approached. I believe that the fissure / gulley we entered is one of the most southern fjords in the Northern Hemisphere.
On the way back we pulled up next to one of the many massive tankers awaiting their turn to enter port.
Definitely worth the trip and if you get Paul, you are in for an informative treat.