It was a really early start because we collectively decided to drive across Vancouver Island to the west coast for a change of scenery.  

Driving towards Port Alberni and then into one of Canada's treasures, the Pacific Rim National Park Reserve, a treasure worth preserving after our experience today of coastal lowland temperate forests of the Pacific Coast Mountain region near shore waters of the island shelf marine region.

We arrive in Tofino seaside township for a hot coffee at Tuff Coffee and then we venture onto our boat – Wasco - for the day with two others – the boat had two viewing decks and a heated cabin. The day was too gorgeous to be inside even though it was only 10 degrees, there was no breeze, the water was smooth and the sun shining.

We sat right at the top of the boat, for a magnificent cruise to the Hot Springs.   We stopped to see five Gray Whales feeding in the shallow waters off the coast, they swam around us like we were the sight to see not the other way around.   We then stopped to see the many Stella Sea Lions lazing on a rock island and some in the water.   

Yeah!! We saw the famous Sea Otter, we were so keen on seeing these little fella’s, they are quite big about the size of a small seal, they lay on their backs the whole time, so they can put their food on their tummies, they spend most of their time in the water not on land.   I’ve got a soft spot for Whales, Dolphins, Sea Otters and Squirrels on this trip, and seeing the Sea Otter made the day super special, we saw about 10 in total.

An hour and a half north-west of Tofino, we arrive at Maquinna Marine Provinicial Park in Clayoquot Sound to soak in the natural hot mineral spring pools. Reachable only by boat or sea-plane, we take an enchanting boardwalk hike for 2kms through old growth forest, ferns, cushions of moss hanging from the branches of towering Sitka spruce.

At the hot springs, there was pit facilities and dressing rooms, it took some time for Dad and I to get to the springs safely as the rocks were quite slippery, the water is very hot, so getting in the water was an interesting feat. We both felt cooked when we did get out, although enjoyed the tranquility of the gift of mother nature.

We spent the remainder of the 3 hours free time, having our home made lunch, and taking in the beauty of the area.   We were lucky enough to see the Stella Jay (bird) before the other tour boats arrived.

On our way back to the Tofino jetty, we again see another six Gray Whales, this time one came right by the boat, to get a spy of us.   And the finale of the day was to see some more Sea Otters and one happily having a snack.

Vancouver Island is definitely a place to come back to experience the many natural sights and activities available, there are so many hikes available, then there is kayaking and even fishing would be quite an experience.

In summary as we come to the end of our week on Vancouver Island, we believe the Island’s preserved nature is a sanctuary in our busy world, a place where the spirit soars with the eagles. It will be very hard to leave.

PS: I did forget to tell you about the marshmallows we found at the Goat on the Roof! Huge!