For a 'Swell' time, try a tugboat cruise on British Columbia's waterways

For a ‘Swell’ time, try a tugboat cruise on British Columbia’s waterways

Here's different way to explore coastal Canadian waterways -- aboard a refitted tugboat.

Feb. 20, 2015 7:30 AM PT

Here’s a little tugboat that could: The aptly named Swell, a classic restored tug built in 1912, is making two inaugural voyages this spring as the newest member of Maple Leaf Adventures’ fleet.

Its first voyage, in April, takes place in Gulf Islands National Park Reserve in British Columbia. Passengers on this five-day excursion will be part of the ship’s blessing ceremony and receive a commemorative bottle of wine. Highlights include cruising to various islands, hiking and wildlife viewing.

The Swell’s second cruise, an eight-day voyage, covers Vancouver Island’s Inside Passage, a historic waterway that the vessel once plied as a tugboat. Highlights here include stops at remote islands and coastal communities as well as wildlife viewing.

The Swell can accommodate 10 passengers in five private cabins, all with bathrooms and showers. There is a salon and two deck lounges, one with a hot tub. The crew includes a gourmet chef, naturalist and wilderness guides.

Dates: April 20-24 and April 25-May 2

Price: From $2,150 plus tax for five days, to $2,275 for the eight-day cruise

Info: Maple Leaf Adventures, (250) 386-7245

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Anne Harnagel

Anne Harnagel was an editor in the Travel section from 2009 to 2021. She has worked at the Los Angeles Times since 1996, with stints in Business and Calendar sections as well as the Los Angeles Times Magazine. Previously, she was managing editor of Home magazine, managing editor/features for the New York Times Syndicate and managing editor for the American Lawyer magazine. She is a native of Los Angeles.

For a ‘Swell’ time, try a tugboat cruise on British Columbia’s waterways

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