The Northbound Inside Passage Flotilla is officially underway! Our journey began as guests arrived in Bellingham on Saturday, greeted by the buzz of anticipation and the final touches of preparation. On Sunday, everyone went through check-out procedures on their vessels and provisioned for the voyage ahead, setting the stage for an unforgettable 26-day adventure through some of the Pacific Northwest’s most iconic waterways.

By Monday morning the docks were alive with energy as our flotilla departed Bellingham under overcast skies and choppy seas. Fortunately, the swells were no match for our adventurous and experienced group, each crew confidently navigating the waters northward.

As the day unfolded, the clouds gave way to sunshine, warming both spirits and skin. The Salish Sea offered a welcoming committee of its own: curious seals bobbed nearby, Dall’s porpoises skimmed the waves, and Steller sea lions barked from rocky outcrops. Overhead, a variety of seabirds soared, reminding us how alive these coastal waters truly are.

One of the day’s highlights came as we passed by Spieden Island, a unique landmark with an unexpected history. Though uninhabited, the island teems with life, most notably herds of fallow and Sika deer. These non-native species were introduced in the 1970s and ’80s when the island was used for exotic big-game hunting. While many fallow and Sika deer are on the island, we happened to catch a glimpse or Mouflon sheep, which are native to Cyprus, Turkey, Armenia, Georgia, Iran,  and Azerbaijan. Today, Spieden remains a curious wildlife sanctuary, also home to thousands of exotic bird species from around the globe.

By late afternoon, our entire flotilla had made a smooth and confident entry into Port Sidney Marina, a picturesque port on Vancouver Island. True to their reputation, our mariners handled the arrival with the poise of seasoned pros.

The evening wrapped up on a celebratory note with a wine and cheese gathering hosted by Ross, Evelyn, and Robin at NW Explorations’ Sidney office. Laughter, stories, and toasts flowed freely as everyone shared their excitement for the journey ahead. Spirits are high as we prepare for an early 6:00 a.m. departure tomorrow, bound for Pender Harbour and the next leg of our coastal adventure.