• Ship & captain for duration of trip.

• 2 Photography guides. Our aim is to get you in the best possible positions to capture incredible imagery with respect to ethical wildlife photography practice. We are also here to help and critique wherever necessary.

• Your accommodation at the Eureka House on Hornby Island during your selected tour dates.

• Chef + Meals:

We are spoiled on this trip as private chef Meesh Coles will be nourishing us with her incredible cooking. We will be enjoying fresh local ingredients and creative dishes, fuelling our adventures each day.

Your dietary preferences will be taken into consideration for each meal.

• A welcome package from our sponsors.

• A donation to Conservancy Hornby Island. 10% of profits will be donated to the volunteer based non-profit dedicated to protecting the land and marine environments around Hornby Island, in the traditional unceded territory of the K'ómoks First Nation.

The trip departs from Deep Bay Marina on Vancouver Island, conveniently located about a 1-hour drive from Nanaimo and 2 hours from Victoria.

For those flying in, the nearest airport is Comox (YQQ). If you’re coming internationally, you can connect via Vancouver (YVR).

Shuttle service to and from Deep Bay is available for $25 each way from Courtenay/Comox.

Let us know if you'd like further refinements!

Shambhala is a 42-foot cutter-rigged sloop, built in Santa Ana, California, in 1977. Over the past six years, John has meticulously restored her from a state of serious neglect and completed her commercial certification with Transport Canada.

This vessel is a joy to sail, combining classic charm with modern comfort. Shambhala is fully equipped with all the amenities of home, including a wood stove to keep you warm and cozy on even the coldest days.

John, a Transport Canada-certified captain with decades of experience navigating these waters, is thrilled to welcome you aboard for an unforgettable journey!

Every spring, the coastal waters of British Columbia come alive with one of nature's most spectacular events: the herring spawn. As the days grow longer and temperatures rise, millions of Pacific herring gather in massive schools along the coastline to spawn.

While the females lay their eggs in the intertidal vegetation and rocks, the male’s milt (or sperm) turns the waters a tropical turquoise colour. These small, silvery fish play a vital role in the region's ecosystem, serving as a keystone species that sustains a multitude of marine life. The event is a feast for the senses, as seabirds, seals, sea lions, and even whales converge to partake in the abundant buffet.

It's one of the best times to be out observing wildlife as it becomes a feeding frenzy.

Learn more about herring and the dangers they face in this short film and via CHI’s “Herring School”.

10% of profits will be donated to Conservancy Hornby Island.

A detailed itinerary with a packing list will be sent out to registered guests!

Here is a glance:

Day 1: We’ll meet as a group in the morning at Deep Bay Marina on Vancouver Island and set sail for Hornby Island. After settling into our accommodations and enjoying lunch, we’ll head back out on the water for our first opportunity to explore around Hornby and search for wildlife.

Days 2-4: Our days will be spent between the sailboat and on land. As a group, we’ll adapt our plans based on weather, wildlife activity, and photographic opportunities - allowing the conditions to guide us toward the best experience.

On tour one the dates align with the Herring Ball & Festival, so you’ll have the option to join the celebrations: live music, art, dancing, and a quintessential gulf island atmosphere.

Day 5: After a final, relaxed morning of exploration, we’ll begin our journey back to Deep Bay Marina. We’ll say our see-you-laters and send you off inspired with lots of photos to edit.

Check out posts from talented guests (public accounts) who’ve joined us on past tours, along with highlights from our own accounts!