Captain McCallum Shares a Favourite Coastal Cruise Itinerary Through Beautiful British Columbia
Imagine a day or two with Captain Duncan McCallum at the helm as he shares his vast knowledge of local waters and unique experiences to be had on British Columbia’s beautiful coast, while you enjoy time with your friends and family.
As the first traces of dawn appear in the east, the lines are quietly slipped at the Victoria International Marina and you proceed into the glassy calm waters of Victoria’s inner harbour. Today’s passage will not be long, as the destination is just ‘around the corner’ in Saanich Inlet.
The day’s adventure will include a stroll through the serene, century old Butchart Gardens. The Gardens are long revered in Canada as a National Historic Site and have received such accolades as “one of the most beautiful gardens in the world” by National Geographic.
Upon arrival, anchors are dropped off the uninhabited Senanus Island and a lunch feast is enjoyed while the crew launch the tender and the grandkids ready the fishing rods. Captain McCallum is familiar with the entire coast of British Columbia, knows the best anchorage sites, and is well versed with vessel reporting procedures, customs, local fishing regulations, and can navigate tidal waters, where currents can reach speeds of up to 15kts.
The shore excursion lasts until the early evening, when anchors are weighed and the Garden’s firework display is admired from the aft deck. While family and friends rest, the yacht makes an overnight run up through the Salish Sea to arrive in Desolation Sound by morning. Desolation Sound offers spectacular waterfalls, snow peaked mountain vistas and the warmest sea water temperatures north of Cape Conception, California. In Teakerne Arm, the yacht’s Dynamic Positioning System is used to hold the stern under the waterfall that cascades out of Cassel Lake. Lunch is enjoyed with the sounds of falling water, stunning skies and majestic views. In the afternoon, your group hikes to the pristine lake and enjoys a leisurely swim in its temped waters. The only decision to be made; where would you like the Captain to take you next?
Captain McCallum works by the motto: “Saluti Primum – Auxilio Semper” (Safety First – Service Always) and strives to make every passage safe and enjoyable. McCallum has more than 35 years experience working on the ocean as a fishing guide, commercial fisherman, whale watching guide, naturalist, diver, sailing instructor, and over 21 years with the Canadian Coast Guard. For the last 10 years, Duncan piloted 14 Mega/Super Yachts throughout BC’s coastal waters, ranging in size from the 150’ M/Y Lara to the 439’ M/Y Serene. McCallum is also an approved Captain with the Pacific Pilotage Authority, has a Masters Certificate for vessels of unlimited tonnage, and is a certified Ice Pilot through Transport Canada. His Coast Guard qualifications encompass Rescue Specialist, Rigid Hull Inflatable Training, Oil Spill Response, Advanced First Aid and Search and Rescue. You can rest assured that the safety of your friends and family are in good hands with Captain McCallum, and your opportunity to enjoy unique experiences in the beautiful coastal waters of British Columbia are endless!
Image: Yacht cruising in British Columbia’s Kynoch Inlet. Used with permission by Captain McCallum.
