Howe Sound UNESCO Sailing Expedition

A full-day private sailing journey beyond the city into the dramatic fjord landscapes of Howe Sound, a UNESCO-designated Biosphere Reserve known for its deep waters, wildlife, and striking coastal scenery.

Why this expedition

  • Private journey into a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve
    Sail beyond Vancouver into Howe Sound, a globally recognized region shaped by glacial fjords, steep coastal mountains, and rich marine ecosystems.

    A true full-day experience
    With extended time on the water, this private expedition allows for unhurried sailing, deeper exploration, and a real sense of leaving the city behind.

    Primarily under sail, weather permitting
    We rely on the wind whenever conditions allow, creating a quieter, more immersive experience through open channels and sheltered inlets.

    Wildlife-rich coastal waters
    Howe Sound is home to seals, seabirds, porpoises, and occasionally whales, offering meaningful opportunities to observe marine life in a natural setting.

    Stories of ecology, coastline, and place
    Your skipper shares insights into the region’s ecology, history, and significance as the landscape unfolds around you.

Book Now

Starting at

$1,999 for up to 5 people

Dates

May 1 - September 30, 2026

Duration

6 hours

Style

Private charter

Perfect for

Couples, families, visiting friends, nature lovers, and those seeking a deeper coastal experience

What’s Included

  • Professional skipper and guide

  • Sailing yacht and fuel

  • Safety equipment

  • Coastal and ecological narration

  • Sparkling and still water

  • Light onboard snacks

The Experience

This expedition is about leaving the city behind.

As we sail north into Howe Sound, urban views fade into steep rock faces, forested slopes, and wide open water. The pace is relaxed, leaving time to settle into the rhythm of the sail and take in the scale of the landscape.

Your skipper adapts the route to the day’s wind and conditions, choosing passages that balance comfort, sailing quality, and the most scenic stretches of the Sound. A relaxed coastal pause near Bowen Island allows time to stretch, snack, and enjoy the surroundings before continuing the journey.

Wildlife & Nature

Howe Sound is one of the most ecologically rich marine areas on the BC coast.

Harbour seals are commonly seen
Seabirds such as cormorants, gulls, and eagles are frequent
Porpoises are often encountered
Whales may appear occasionally, but are never guaranteed

Wildlife is observed respectfully — never approached or chased
Nature enhances the experience, but is never promised

How the Sail Unfolds

Every private expedition is shaped by wind, tides, and conditions. While no two trips are the same, most include:

Departure from Vancouver
Transition from city waters into open coastal channels.

Open-Water Sailing
Steadier breeze, deeper water, and expansive views.

Fjord Coastline Sailing
Steep cliffs, forested slopes, and remote shoreline.

Wildlife-Rich Areas
Natural zones where marine life is often encountered.

Relaxed Coastal Pause
Time to take in the quiet and scale of the landscape.

Return Sail
Changing light and perspective as the day unfolds.

*Routes and stops vary with weather, wind, and marine traffic to ensure comfort and safety.

10.jpg
14.jpg
15.jpg
12.jpg

Trust & Safety

This experience is operated by MacSailing, Canada’s largest sailing school, operating on Vancouver’s waterfront since 1999.

Our vessels and operations comply with Transport Canada regulations, and our skippers are professionally trained and highly experienced, operating under established safety procedures developed through decades of instruction, coaching, and on-water programming.

Safety equipment is carried onboard, and routes are selected each day to prioritize comfort, conditions, and guest experience.

 FAQs

 

  • No. This experience is designed for beginners and non-sailors.

  • Seals and seabirds are common, but wildlife sightings are never guaranteed.

  • Yes, for older children comfortable on boats.

  • Conditions are usually calm. We choose routes that prioritize comfort.