Getting Here
Well worth the trip...
Things to know
Plan your ideal trip with help from these links.
Weather
With its mild coastal climate, you can enjoy cool summers and mild winters, making it perfect for outdoor activities year-round. Expect refreshing ocean breezes and occasional rain, which keep the landscape lush and vibrant. Don’t forget to dress in layers to fully enjoy everything Alert Bay has to offer!
Road Conditions
When you can expect when traveling Highway 19A to Port McNeill: In the summer, the road is typically dry and clear. During the fall, occasional rain may lead to slippery conditions, while winter can introduce snow and ice, especially in higher elevations. Always check local updates before your journey!
By Boat
Coming Soon....
By Car
To reach Alert Bay by road, take Highway 19 to Port McNeill on North Vancouver Island. From there, you can board a BC Ferry to Cormorant Island, which is a 45-minute ride that departs Port McNeill six a day.
Ferry Crossing
PLEASE NOTE: This is an unreservable route. Please arrive approximately 30 minutes before sailing. Sailing time is approximately 45 minutes. There is no fee to leave the island.
By Plane
Commercial Flight: Flights arrive to Port Hardy Airport (YZT) daily via Pacific Coastal Airlines. Once in Port Hardy you can tale a taxi or rent a car to Port McNeill (40 minutes), and From Port McNeill, take the BC Ferries service to Alert Bay (about 45 minutes).
Seaplane: Fly direct to Alert Bay's protected harbour, just a short walk from downtown Alert Bay. Seair Seaplanes and Pacific Coastal Airlines provide chartered seaplane flights from Vancouver, as well as other coastal locations. Contact the Harbour Master for more information.
Private Charter: For those flying a private aircraft, Alert Bay has a private landing strip suitable for small planes.
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Airport Code: CAL3 (Alert Bay Airport)
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Runway Information:
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Runway Length: 2,985 feet (911 meters)
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Surface: Asphalt
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As this is a private airstrip, pilots should arrange permission for landings and confirm fuel availability if needed. Contact the Village of Alert Bay for more information.
Top 10 Things to Do in Alert Bay
1. Visit U’mista Cultural Centre
Step into the heart of Kwakwa̱ka̱’wakw culture at the home of an incredible collection of repatriated Potlatch regalia. Learn about the resilience and traditions of the Kwakwa̱ka̱’wakw, including a well stocked Gift Shop.
2. Walk the Alert Bay Ecological Park
Locally known as "Gator Gardens", this unique boardwalk trail takes you through a wetland filled with spooky cedar and hemlock trees.
3. View the ‘Na̱mg̱is Burial Grounds
View the striking totem poles at the ‘Na̱mg̱is Burial Grounds, one of the most impressive displays of traditional Indigenous artistry on the West Coast. This is a sacred site, but visitors are welcome to view respectfully from a distance.
4. Watch for Whales and Wildlife
"Home of the Killer Whale", Alert Bay is a great place to watch for orcas, humpback whales, sea lions, and dolphins. Join a tour or simply scan the waters from the shore - whales are often spotted right from the dock!
5. Experience the Big House
If you’re lucky enough to visit during a public event, don’t miss the chance to experience a ceremony or cultural gathering at the Alert Bay Big House, one of the largest traditional First Nations bighouses in the province.
6. Visit the Alert Bay Library & Museum
This small yet fascinating museum offers insight into the history of Alert Bay, including its fishing, logging, and Indigenous heritage. It's a great place to dive deeper into local stories.
7. Rest in the Awak'was
There are 5 Awak'was (means "a place to sit and talk" or "a place to look out from," in Kwak̓wala) along the Boardwalk in Alert Bay and each offers a unique chance to rest and experience the presence of Kwakwa̱ka̱’wakw culture in Alert Bay. These waterfront gathering spaces, located along the boardwalk, feature intricate carvings that together represent the five clans of the 'Na̱mg̱is Nation. They are a perfect spot to reflect, learn, and connect with the spirit of the island.
8. Stroll the Waterfront Boardwalk
Enjoy a peaceful walk along the waterfront boardwalk, where you’ll find colorful buildings, fishing boats, and friendly locals. Stop at a café or restaurant to enjoy fresh seafood and island hospitality.
9. Visit the Hand-Carved Welcome Figures
At the ferry terminal, you’ll find two towering welcome figures carved by master carvers of the Kwakwa̱ka̱’wakw Nation. These stunning pieces of art are a beautiful introduction to the island’s deep cultural roots.
10. Stay at The Cabins at Alert Bay
For a peaceful getaway, book a stay at The Cabins at Alert Bay. Nestled by the ocean, these cozy accommodations offer stunning views, modern comforts, and easy access to all the island’s attractions.
