DAY 01: ARRIVAL IN VANCOUVER

Arrive at Vancouver International Airport and transfer independently to your downtown hotel. Pick up your Canada Roadbook at the front desk as you check-in. Take the rest of the day to create your own urban adventure amid the stores, parks, restaurants, theatres and other attractions in downtown Vancouver. Overnight in Vancouver.

DAY 02: VANCOUVER TO VICTORIA ( 70 KM )

The BC Ferries cruise across the Strait of Georgia will transport you past the rugged coastline and tranquil beaches of the Gulf Islands to Vancouver Island. Continue down the Saanich Peninsula to Victoria, the capital of British Columbia. Victoria has a fascinating marine heritage and has retained its colonial charm. You may end your day with a visit to the Empress Hotel for traditional High Tea. Overnight in Victoria.

DAY 03: VICTORIA ( 0 KM )

Today, you will launch into the Pacific aboard a Zodiac powerboat. You will seek out orca, minke and grey whales, seals, porpoises and other marine wildlife. Following your excursion, drive through the serene beauty of the Saanich Peninsula for a visit to Butchart Gardens, one of Victoria's most celebrated sites and rated among the most beautiful gardens in the world. Once there, stroll through the colourful arrangements of the Sunken Garden, the Japanese and Italian Gardens, the English Rose Garden and the magnificent Ross Fountain. Overnight in Victoria.

DAY 04: VICTORIA TO TOFINO ( 320 KM )

Be sure that you have your camera at the ready – a panorama of scenic beauty is about to unfold before you. Your road leads across Vancouver Island to the Pacific Coast winding through ancient rainforests and provincial parks. You’re venturing into true wildlife territory here: The Pacific Rim National Park is a marvel of ecological and geographical diversity. Overnight in Tofino.

DAY 05: TOFINO ( 0 KM )

Today you are taking part in a thrilling whalewatching expedition. Your search for the Pacific grey whale, sea lions and puffins will hopefully be rewarded with an unforgettable close encounter in Clayoqout Sound with one of the world’s largest mammals. Back on dry land, you’re free to explore the rugged coastline along the network of hiking trails or to walk the shoreline of Long Beach in search of shells and driftwood. Overnight in Tofino.

DAY 06: TOFINO TO CAMPBELL RIVER ( 290 KM )

This morning, the spectacular winding road takes you back to the eastern coast of Vancouver Island with visits to Horne Lake Caves or Cathedral Grove. Your route will introduce you to many gems – including native rock carvings at Sproat Lake and the picturesque falls at Little Qualicum Falls Provincial Park. Tonight you will have time to explore the quaint town of Campbell River. Stroll down the Discovery Pier for a chance to see salmon, eagles, or even whales; take in views of Discovery Passage, Quadra Island and the rugged Coast Mountain range of mainland British Columbia; or partake in one of the many locally available fishing excursions.Overnight in Campbell River.

DAY 07: CAMPBELL RIVER TO KNIGHT INLET

Today’s destination, Knight Inlet Lodge, is not accessible by road, so you’ll fly in by floatplane from Campbell River. A thrilling 30-minute flight brings you to the mouth of the Glendale River, where Knight Inlet Lodge floats on large cedar booms. Bring your camera: today you’ll be going on a bear watching and wildlife viewing tour. Be prepared to relish the lush West Coast rainforests and marvel at the abundance of wildlife! During the spring months, the early flourishing sage grasses and estuary barnacles provide bears with food after long hibernation. In the fall, the streams and rivers of the area are favorite fishing grounds for over 50 of the large creatures. Overnight in Knight Inlet. Lunch and dinner included.

DAY 08: KNIGHT INLET TO VANCOUVER ( 160 KM )

This morning you will return to Campbell River by floatplane. Your route back along the eastern coastline of Vancouver Island will take you through breathtaking coastal scenery of rugged headlands, serene lagoons and dense lush forests. Keep a keen eye out for loons, bald eagles, Canada geese, deer and black bears. Take a cruise on BC Ferries back to Vancouver. Overnight in Vancouver. Breakfast included.

DAY 09: END OF TOUR

Return to Vancouver International Airport in time to check-in for your departure flight.