North Island

Beginning an hour north of Campbell River towards Sayward, the North Island region extends north to the windswept tip at Cape Scott, west to the jagged Pacific coast and east across whale-rich waters to include the Great Bear Rainforest and sections of the BC mainland. Whale and bear sightings top everyone’s wish list. Group outings in comfortable cabin cruisers or exciting open-air Zodiac’s depart in search of orcas, humpback whales, porpoises, Steller sea lions, Minke whales and harbour seals. The May to October season is also primetime for nautical trips from Northern Vancouver Island to the mainland’s grizzly bear habitats.

Visit Vancouver Island North to learn more.

Highlights
  • Outstanding wildlife, kayaking, and nature tours.

  • Quiet, relaxed, peaceful.

  • A popular destination for fishing charters.

  • Home to Cape Scott Provincial Park  and San Josef Bay, part of the North Coast Trail.

  • 500 kilometres north of Victoria, BC.

Credit: Tyler Kave, Knight Inlet Lodge

North Island Road Trip Ideas

GETTING TO NORTH ISLAND

GETTING TO NORTH ISLAND

No matter how to plan to access Northern Vancouver Island, the journey is nothing short of beautiful.

Drivers on Vancouver Island can head north via Highways 19 from Campbell River to Port Hardy.

BC Ferries northern route connects Prince Rupert and Bella Coola to the Port Hardy, making for a stunning journey through the northern passage.
GETTING TO VANCOUVER ISLAND