Special Features - Marine and Outdoor Adventure Guide 2018

marine & outdoor

ADVENTURE

GUIDE

VANCOUVER ISLAND, BRITISH COLUMBIA

T

he Comox Valley is a place that inspires creativity, tempts the taste buds, soothes the soul and fires the imagination of adventurers and outdoor enthusiasts. Situated halfway up the east coast of Vancouver Island, this community of 65,000 faces the sea and embraces the mountains, has the charm of a small town but with a touch of urban sophistication and taste. The Comox Valley is comprised of three communities, each one diverse and unique; the City of Courtenay, Town of Comox, Village of Cumberland and the surrounding rural farm areas.

From full on adventure to blissful relaxation, you’ll find four seasons of fun in the Comox Valley. Carve down an alpine ski run with an ocean view, Nordic ski through an ancient forest, scuba dive in crystal clear waters, mountain bike or hike along a river, paddle kilometers of shoreline and climb aboard a whale watching adventure.

marine & outdoor adventure

2018 EvEnTS JANuARY ApRiL

• Rod and Gun Club Sporting Days

• Comox Rod and Gun Club - Archery Spring Shoot Apr 7th - 8th, 2018

MAY

• Comox Rod and Gun Club Spring Gun Show - May 6th, 2018

JuNE

• Courtenay Fish and Games Outdoor Recreation Show - June 2nd - 3rd, 2018 • Sail Fest June 23rd - 24th, 2018

JuLy

• Mount Washington Bike Park Opens - July 6th, 2018 • Strathcona Wilderness Institutes guided walk - Lake Helen Mackenzie/ Battleship Lake Loop July 1st, 2018 • Strathcona Wilderness Institutes guided walk - Early Blooms in Paradise Meadows #2 - July 7th, 2018 • Strathcona Wilderness Institutes guided walk - Circlet Lake Hike - Avalanche Lily Search - July 8th, 2018 • Strathcona Wilderness Institutes guided walk - McKenzie Meadows 2

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- Sub Alpine Ecosystems - July 14th, 2018 • Chef on a Bike - Forage & Feast - July 14th, 2018 • Strathcona Wilderness Institutes guide walk - Hike up Mt. Becher - Evolution of Land Plants - July 22nd, 2018 • Strathcona Wilderness Institutes guided walk - Hike to Aston Pond (Near Panther Lake) - July 29th, 2018

AuGuST

• Dragon Boat Festival during Nautical Days - August 5th, 2018 • Chef on a Bike - Vegan & Vino - August 11th, 2018 • Investors Group Salt Water Showdown Fishing Derby - August 25th, 2018

SEPTEmBER

• Denman Island Blackberry Faire and Fun Run/Walk - Sept 2nd, 2018 • 5th Annual Petite Fondo Bike race - Sept 9th, 2018 • Steve Smith Memorial BC Cup Finals - Sept 15th and 16th, 2018 • Comox Valley Farm Cycle Tour Sept 23rd, 2018

OcTOBER

• Comox Valley’s Rod and Gun Club - Fall Gun Show - Oct 21st, 2018 1.855.400.2882

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MARINE ADVENTURES

Where Oceans, Lakes and Rivers Run Deep Ocean Sports Adventures For All Ages With beautiful, sandy beaches and extensive ocean activities available, head to Comox and rent a stand-up paddleboard, kayak or sailboat for a day of adventure.

Scenic Kayak Tours Enjoy popular paddles around Comox Harbour and the scenic waters surrounding Goose Spit, which is home to seals, bald eagles, and blue herons. Head to the historic Royston Wrecks ghost ships or experience the intertidal marine life in and around the Courtenay River. Day trips to Tree Island, Denman or Chrome Island are great options for the more adventurous.

Diving Excursions The waters surrounding the Comox Valley offer some of the most pristine, clear cold-water diving in the world. Local dives include the Capilano Wreck (1915), Vivian Island Sponge Wall, Norris Rocks with its mischievous seals, and the memorable Wolf Eel Alley. Get under the water’s surface and discover the temperate, colourful waters of the Pacific.

Lady Rose Marine Services

Experience the Wilderness of Barkley Sound!

Day trips to the West Coast.

Visit www.ladyrosemaine.com to full schedule details.

Call :250-723-8313 or T F: 1-800-663-7192

Photo Credits with thanks to Strathcona Photography, Le Photographer, Mount Washington Alpine Resort, Big Animal Encounters, Horne Lake Caves, Nootka Marine, Island Joy Rides, Holiday Inn Express & Suites, Crown Isle Resort & Golf Community. #EXPLORECOMOXVALLEY

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Marine Adventures From SUP rentals to boat charters, or from marine ecotours to guided kayak and fishing excursions, the Comox Valley’s harbours, ocean water ways, rivers and estuary offer adventures to suit every age, skill and budget.

World-famous Fishing & Boating Summer is salmon season on Vancouver Island! Fishing charters feature knowledgeable captains and expert guides to deliver you to prime fishing hot-spots. Charters include bait, fishing gear, fish bags, plus cleaning and filleting. For visitors who bring their own boats, head to Comox Harbour, Courtenay Airpark, Union Bay, Kitty Coleman or Saratoga Beach for launch access points to the ocean.

Comox Lake in Cumberland offers excellent fresh-water boating and swimming.

Comox Harbour Tours & Charters

JOIN US!

Try a sublime sunset or scenic tour around the Comox Harbour or up the Courtenay River Estuary, or journey to a Deep Water Oyster Farm in Baynes Sound. Private boat charters deliver 40 minute cruises to Tree Island, where passengers can go ashore and explore this unique, uninhabited sand island.

• Cowboy, Shotgun and Black Powder Shooting • Indoor & Outdoor Range • Archery • Special Events • Conservation DEDICATED TO WILDLIFE MANAGEMENT AND CONSERVATION

250-338-9122

the-office@courtenayfishandgame.org www.courtenayfishandgame.org

Corilair

Scheduled flights departing Campbell River throughout the week to & from the Discovery Island and Desolation Sound. Sightseeing and tour options, charter service on demand, also courier and freight service. www.corilair.com | 1 -888-287-8366 | 3050 Spit Road , Campbell River 4

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1.855.400.2882

R AND BOOK A TOU

!

E diti1ons0app% SAV ly con me *so

Marine Wildlife Tours Take a tour on a zodiac or covered boat for a unique family experience. The surrounding waters of Desolation Sound and the Salish Sea boast extensive marine wildlife, both big and small including marine birds, seals, sea lions, porpoises and even orca or grey whales, which frequent the area.

Adventure Quest Tours

Whale/Marine Wildlife tours and Grizzly Adventures. Embark on your personalized West Coast Adventure. Daily departures from Campbell River. www.adventurequestcanada.com | Discovery Harbor Marina, Main walkway at “J” Dock, Island Hwy 19A, Campbell River | 778-346-0021

Campbell River Whale Watching

Campbell River’s LARGEST tour company. Join us for Whale Watching, Grizzly Bear, Ocean & Wild Life Tours. Guaranteed sightings 4-8 hr tours avail.

DISCOVERY HARBOUR MARINE, Roberts Reach Road, Dock E 250-287-2667 or 1- 877-909-2667 | www.campbellriverwhalewatching.com

Discovery Marine Safaris

Our covered vessels depart daily from Campbell River, gateway to the Island’s unique wildlife sightings.

Campbell River | 1-866-501-6722 | 250-287-7008 info@adventurewhalewatching.com | www.adventurewhalewatching.com

Big Animal Encounters

Grizzly Bear Tours, Whale Watching, Scuba Diving & Snorkeling Over 20 years exploring BC’s Westcoast.

COURTENAY / COMOX / CAMPBELL RIVER 1-877-800-3483 | www.biganimalencounters.com

Stubbs Island Whale Watching

BC’s 1st whale watching company has proudly set the standards for an ethical, safe and remarkable whale watching experience.

Telegraph Cove | 1-800-665-3066 | Ph 250-928-3185 reservations@stubbs-island.com | www.stubbs-island.com #EXPLORECOMOXVALLEY

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Nootka Marine Adventures – It’s not just about the fishing.

Nootka Marine Adventures built their reputation catering to the sportfishing enthusiast. Over the years it has also become a preferred destination for guests looking for more. Whether you decide to stay in one of their 38 camp/RV sites, serviced with water and power, premium lodge suites and chalets, or one of their luxury yurts, Moutcha Bay Resort has a wilderness experience for everyone. An extensive fleet of boats are also based here, including nineteen of their large, comfortable guide boats, a premium selection of rental boats ranging from 18 to 24 feet in length and a full-service marina for the do-it-yourself mariner. The marina offers fuel, bait, tackle, and 70 moorage slips, many with 15 and 30 AMP power.

If you would like to mix in a little variety to your sportfishing adventure, the area also offers a range of day trips including kayak & SUP rentals, a children’s playground with a mini zip line, caving, hatchery tours, hiking and ATV trails.

The variety of outdoor activities available include: Outdoor Programs – May, June & September • Conuma Hatchery Tour • Beach Seine • Crabbing and Boat Safety • Kayaking • Upana Caves • Wildlife and Environmental Awareness

Hiking and Historical Tours – May to September Yoga & Wellness Retreats – May, June & September Exceptional Freshwater Fishing: Within close proximity are the highly productive Conuma, Canton, Leiner, Gold and Burhman Rivers. Malaspina Lake is also located a short drive from Moutcha Bay Resort.

Nootka Marine Adventure’s three wonderful resorts can satisfy the varied needs of every outdoor enthusiast and pride themselves in creating custom-crafted wilderness adventures for anyone wishing to fish and explore the spectacular and historically rich region of Nootka Sound and Esperanza Inlets. www.nootkamarineadventures.com info@nootkamarineadventure.com 1-877-337-5464 ADVERTORIAL

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DISCOVERCOMOXVALLEY.COM |

1.855.400.2882

You should be here!

Call the Vancouver Island

Visitor Centre to book your Marine Adventure Today!

1-855-400-2882

BOOK TODAY!

M ARINE

ADVENTURES Tours from

119

$

per person + tax

Tours from

60

$

per person + tax

Tours from

25

$

per person + tax

BIG ANIMAL ENCOUNTERS Snorkel with Seals, Grizzly Bear Tours, and Whale Watching BC SALMON FARMERS ASSOCIATION Salmon Farm Tour WEST COAST WATER SPORTS SUP Yoga and Rentals

Book through the Vancouver Island Visitor Centre today at 1.855.400.2882, or online at DiscoverComoxValley.com Conditions may apply, call for latest rates and options. #EXPLORECOMOXVALLEY

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DISCOVER

comox valley

vancouver island, british columbia 10 DISCOVERCOMOXVALLEY.COM |

1.855.400.2882

OUTDOOR ADVENTURES Experience year round adventure from two planks to two wheels.

Road Biking Paradise From multi-day Sip & Savour Tours to three-hour Wine & Chocolate rides, the region’s meandering, rider-friendly country roads are dotted with a multitude of farms and wineries and offer the perfect pairing for road riders of all ages and fitness levels.

The annual Comox Valley Farm Cycle Tour (Sept. 23) allows cyclists behind the scenes access to numerous farms, wineries and other food & beverage producers.

Salmon Point Resort RV Park & Marina

Open Year round! Full service sites with basic cable TV & Lite Wi Fi Cottages and RV Accommodations. jacuzzi & Heated pool. Waterfront Restaurant & Pub. Boat Rentals & Fishing Charters Arranged. www.salmonpoint.com | 250-923-6605 | 2176 Salmon Point Rd.

Timberlane Beach Resort

OPEN YEAR ROUND. Deluxe Beachfront Suites, 2 bedroom park model & rustic cottages.

Large community deck with table & chairs.

250-337-8964 | www.timberlanebeachresort.com #EXPLORECOMOXVALLEY

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One of BC’s best Mountain Bike Destinations The Comox Valley’s extensive mountain bike trails draw riders from near and far. The trail network is surrounded by massive forests and offers masterfully-crafted trails for all abilities. Mount Washington Alpine Resort’s Bike Park opens in July and riders can choose from a range of epic expert runs to easy beginner trails. Take a tour with a local guide or visit the many bike shops for rental bikes and insider tips only the local riders know!

Head to DiscoverComoxValley.com/mountainbike to learn more about our local mountain bike scene.

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1.855.400.2882

Alpine to Ocean Hiking From the rugged wilderness areas, glaciers, snowfields and mountains of Strathcona Provincial Park, to coastal walks in Seal Bay Nature Park, the Comox Valley is a paradise of extensive provincial and regional parks for adventure hikers or for those looking for a casual stroll through stunning, pristine BC wilderness.

Sublime Hiking in BC’s Oldest Provincial Park Strathcona Provincial Park, designated in 1911, is the oldest provincial park in British Columbia. Located almost in the centre of Vancouver Island, Strathcona Park is a rugged mountain wilderness comprising more than 250,000 hectares. Mountain peaks – some perpetually mantled with snow – dominate the park. Lakes and alpine tarns dot a landscape laced with rivers, creeks and streams. Summer in Strathcona is usually pleasantly warm, while winters are fairly mild except for the higher levels, where heavy snowfalls are the norm.

From November through March, snowfalls can be expected on the mountain slopes and alpine plateaus. Snow remains all year on the mountain peaks and may linger into July even at moderate elevations. Summer evenings, as elsewhere in the coastal regions of B.C., can be cool and rain can be expected at any time of the year.

Get Swung

Play, Practice & Perfect! Indoor Batting cages, Golf Simulators and Indoor sports training centre.

We Do Birthday parties and private functions.

250-871-4070 | getswung.ca | 780A 30th Street, Courtenay #EXPLORECOMOXVALLEY

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Go for the Green The Comox Valley is home to 7 popular golf courses, including the acclaimed Crown Isle Resort and Golf Community – celebrating its 25th anniversary this year and past host of the Canadian PGA Qualifier. Many courses are open year-round attracting visitors from other parts of Canada and the U.S. seeking greens in the winter months.

Cave Adventure Tours Explore extensive subterranean cave playgrounds with marble passages and crystal caverns at Horne Lake Caves. Climb an underground waterfall, slide down ramps and ladders with an optional squeeze through the “wormhole”.

Book through the Vancouver Island Visitor Centre today at 1.855.400.2882, or online at DiscoverComoxValley.com Horne Lake Caves Park

Horne Lake Caves Park is a caving, adventure tourism, company for many ages and abilities located on Vancouver Island in British Columbia.

Amazing Tours Mild to Wild1 open year round. hornelake.com | 250-248-7829 14 DISCOVERCOMOXVALLEY.COM |

1.855.400.2882

The Island's Best View - Mount Washington A full-service year-round resort with astounding alpine-to-ocean views, the Mount Washington Alpine Resort boasts some of the deepest snowfalls in North America. In winter, the mountain offers 1,700 acres of terrain. In summer, enjoy scenic chairlift rides to the top of the mountain where family-friendly hiking trails provide easy access to the stunning panorama and the rush of the Island's only lift-accessed downhill mountain bike park.

BOOK TODAY!

OUTDOOR ADVENTURES Tours from

27

$

per person + tax

Tours from

40

$

per person + tax

Lift Passes from

AMPED RIDES Electric Bikes

21

MOUNT WASHINGTON ALPINE RESORT Scenic Summer Chair Lift Ride

145

49 NORTH HELICOPTERS Discovery and Comox Glacier Tours

$

per person + tax

Tours from

HORNE LAKE CAVES & OUTDOOR CENTRE Cave and Riverbend Explore Tours

$

per person + tax

The Ski and Surf Shop

The Ski and Surf Shop in the Comox Valley offers a wide selection of technical clothing, Kayaks, paddles & paddle wear, skis and Stand Up Paddle boards. Come see what’s in store!

333 5th St. Downtown Courtenay | 250-338-8844 | www.skiandsurf.ca

Ski Tak Hut

Whether you are a new winter sports enthusiast, or a competitive skier or boarder, our experienced and knowledgeable staff can help you get just what you need, quickly, efficiently, and with the right fit.

267 6th St. Downtown Courtenay | 250- 334-2537 | www.skitakhut.com #EXPLORECOMOXVALLEY

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www.comoxmarine.ca www.comoxmarine.ca We offer industryͲleading products and experienced staff with a full online and retail store.

Our mobile service van easily services local marinas throughout Vancouver Island . We are a member of the American Boat & Yacht Council.

Council.

Installation available available 

Electrical Components & Complete ReͲWires  Windlasses, Electronics & Davit Systems  Surveillance Systems  Enquire for all of our services

SPRINTER VAN CONVERSIONS CONVERSIONS Turn the ordinary into the extraordinary with our custom built van conversions. Sprinter vans built to suit your passion and activities.

Let us work with you to design and create an exciting and functional interior for your adventure van.

Sprinter vans

As tough as the West Coast

Comox Marine & Woodworking 1782 Ryan Rd East Comox, BC V9M 4C9 Tel: 250 Ͳ 941 Ͳ 6699 www.comoxmarine.ca