Archipelago Ventures Ltd.

Explore the spectacular marine and terrestrial environment of the Queen Charlotte Islands (Haida Gwaii) located approximately 130 km off the northwest coast of British Columbia, Canada. A wilderness paradise, the "Misty Isles" hold a special place in the imagination of all who have heard of them. Rising out of the Pacific and perched on the edge of the continental shelf, this archipelago has developed in isolation since the last ice age receded some 12,000 years ago. Rugged west coast fjords, ancient temperate rainforests, natural mineral hotsprings, cool mountain lakes, and spectacular alpine meadows provide the setting for an experience you will never forget.

The Haida people have flourished on these islands known as Haida Gwaii - "Islands of the People", for 10,000 years. An amenable climate and rich natural resources allowed them to develop a complex and creative culture in harmony with their environment. You will get to know the Haida Gwaii Watchmen - guardians and hosts at several long abandoned but still vibrant Haida villages, including the spectacular UNESCO World Heritage Site of Nans Dins village on SGaang Gwaii (Anthony Island).

Archipelago Ventures Ltd. has been providing a commercial charter and adventure tour service on the Islands since 1980. We provide a warm and friendly alternative to exploring the more remote corners of Haida Gwaii (Queen Charlotte Islands). We are licensed to operate in Gwaii Haanas National Park Reserve and are committed to the preservation of the unique environmental and cultural values of the Queen Charlotte Islands. Archipelago Ventures is a member of the Gwaii Haanas Tour Operators Association, which liaises with Parks Canada to ensure a high quality experience for all visitors to the Park. Our trips are full of learning opportunities, new experiences as well as relaxation and good times.

You’ll travel aboard the 42’ kayak mothership “M.V. Island Bay”.  Built for the rigors of working year round on the Northcoast, everything about this vessel is well thought out and heavily built. Designed for stability in the tradition of the west coast fishing vessel, the inside is warmly finished in teak and has all of the comforts of home. Six “Current Designs” kayaks nestle comfortably on the top deck providing the best possible transportation for exploring the protected bays and shorelines of Gwaii Haanas National Park.

Your Captain and guide Rob Pettigrew lived in Queen Charlotte City for twenty-two years and has over 30 years experience navigating the waters and getting to know the people of Haida Gwaii. Whether you're a kayaker, hiker, photographer, or curious adventure traveler we'll make sure you have an intimate and memorable experience of the Islands and their people.