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The lodge is located in Farewell Harbour on Berry Island on 10 acres of beautifully forested land. With the exception of the lodge property and 3 adjoining acreages, Berry Island is within the border of world-renowned Broughton Archipelago Marine Park, which is located between Vancouver Island and the mainland of British Columbia with Queen Charlotte Strait to the west and Knight Inlet to the east. Berry Island Wilderness Lodge is a beautiful protected anchorage along the famed inside passage route to Alaska.
With its unparalleled hospitality, awe-inspiring surroundings, and a commitment to conservation, Berry Island Wilderness Lodge has been an oasis of tranquility, inviting visitors to embrace the wonders of nature and forge a deep connection with the untamed world.
The primary lodge building and common area features a comfortable lounge and dining room, bar and a large brick fireplace surrounded by large windows and a wraparound deck boasting spectacular views of the harbour with its south and west exposure (great sunsets!). The expansive decks continue as a boardwalk along the shore, leading to eight private oceanside suites with ensuite bathrooms, gas-fired stove and extra-long double beds. A ramp leads off the main lodge to our floating lodge below, featuring four additional suites, each with a private bathroom for twelve rooms in total. All lodge suites and common areas have unique design features incorporating natural cedar and local materials and art from the area that offer a distinctive, relaxing ‘west coast’ feel.
Berry Island Wilderness Lodge has been renowned for its diverse range of activities that allow guests to immerse themselves in the untamed beauty of its surroundings. From exhilarating wildlife encounters to serene explorations of the pristine wilderness, the lodge offers an array of experiences that cater to every adventurer's desire. Embark on guided kayaking expeditions through the glassy waters, where you can paddle alongside playful seals and marvel at the majesty of breaching whales. Set out on thrilling whale-watching excursions, where expert guides unveil the secrets of the ocean and provide glimpses of orcas, humpbacks, and porpoises as they gracefully navigate the waves. For those seeking a more intimate encounter with nature, embark on guided hiking trails through ancient forests, where every step unveils the wonders of towering trees, cascading waterfalls, and an abundance of wildlife.
Berry Island Wilderness Lodge offers a variety of different types of bear viewing excursions in search of both Grizzly bears and Black bears. Bear viewing season runs from early June to mid-October. Berry Island Wilderness Lodge does not use viewing platforms or utilise artificially created bear habitat to enhance the viewing opportunities. They prefer to seek out bears in their natural environment and view them from the same eye level as the wildlife around. All small group sizes and operated by trained and knowledgeable staff.
Today, depart from Vancouver International Airport (South Terminal) for a scenic flight to Port Hardy. Upon arrival, please make your way to your Port Hardy accommodation. The rest of the day is yours to explore Port Hardy.
Overnight in Port Hardy
This morning, transfer to Alder Bay for your midday departure aboard high-speed water taxi for the scenic 30-minute service to Farewell Harbour. Greet Berry Island Wilderness Lodge staff at the dock and receive a welcome orientation and lunch. After settling into accommodation, join an afternoon tour in search of marine wildlife in the waters of the famous Johnstone Strait and Blackfish Sound.
Return to the lodge for dinner, followed by the next day activity briefing. Optional evening presentation after dinner on some aspect of coastal ecology, or sit around the fire table and enjoy the sunset from the cedar deck.
Overnight at Berry Island Wilderness Lodge
After breakfast, meet on the dock for your first full-day bear viewing adventure to one of the main grizzly viewing estuaries! The bear viewing takes you to one of several estuaries where you'll view either from a zodiac or on foot depending on the tide. Viewing platforms are not used, preferring to view wildlife at eye level in their natural habitat. Return to the lodge for dinner, followed by an evening presentation.
Overnight at Berry Island Wilderness Lodge
After breakfast, head out on the water for your choice of another bear viewing safari or a more extensive exploration of the incredibly rich waters of Johnstone Strait and the Broughton Archipelago Marine Park.
Orcas typically return to these waters mid-July although Humpbacks and other marine life can often be seen from May through October. Return for dinner and an evening program. Other activities include sea kayaking or rainforest adventures. Marine excursions can also afford an opportunity to learn about the cultural traditions of the Kwakwaka’wakw First Nations as we pass ancient villages sites, rock art called pictographs and other evidence of a rich history and vibrant present in the region.
Overnight at Berry Island Wilderness Lodge
Today, enjoy a short morning guided sea kayak tour in the protected and crystalline waters near Berry Island Wilderness Lodge, a marine tour, Rainforest Ecology or Forest Bathing Walk, or a cultural tour. Return to the lodge for the water taxi back to Alder Bay arriving about noon for ongoing connections or your transfer back to Port Hardy Airport for your flight back to Vancouver.
Berry Island
Experience the profound beauty of the Broughton Archipelago and the Great Bear Rainforest at the Berry Island Wilderness Lodge. Offering inspiring west coast style ocean-side accommodations, sumptuous meals, and engaging, passionate guides who will lead you on daily adventures deep into the heart of this wild and beautiful part of the planet.
