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Sgaang Gwaii
Photo by Robin K. Wright |
GWAII HAANAS, A PLACE OF WONDER:
THE QUEEN CHARLOTTE ISLANDS with Dr. Robin K. Wright June 26 - July 4, 2010 On this trip you will visit Gwaii Haanas, home of the Haida people. The Haida are masters of the splendid and elegant formline art style that has excited anthropologists, art collectors, and art historians around the world. Tour highlights include visits to a number of ancient villages, including a visit to the UN World Heritage site Sgaang Gwaii (or Ninstints). The Island Roamer crew will share their extensive knowledge of the natural history of Gwaii Haanas, and Dr. Wright will guide you through the villages of monumental art with the Haida Gwaii Watchmen, the caretakers at each village site. This trip will provide participants with an opportunity to explore the Queen Charlotte Islands in a unique way and allows access to an array of fascinating wildlife. Along the way you will see various species of whale, sea lions, seals, eagles, and hopefully puffins. Traveling with Dr. Wright, you will learn about Haida culture, history, and art. You are encouraged to come early or stay after the trip for a day or two, so you can rent a car and travel north to Old Massett to see more poles and visit with Haida artists. Bluewater Adventures can recommend a travel agent who can assist you with your travel arrangements. ABOUT THE ISLAND ROAMER The Island Roamer affords easy access for people of any age and most physical capabilities. She is a Canadian Coast Guard certified passenger vessel and has all the safety and navigation equipment you would expect for a vessel of her standard. There are two large inflatables for shore excursions and both double and single kayaks for quietly exploring islands and shorelines. The crew of the Island Roamer consists of a Coast Guard licensed captain, professional cook, and expert naturalist. They all bring knowledge gained from years exploring the islands, and training in marine biology, education, ornithology, or anthropology. ABOUT ROBIN K. WRIGHT HIGHLIGHTS (SUBJECT TO CHANGE) On the evening of June 27th your sailing tour aboard the Island Roamer to the remote sites on Gwaii Haanas begins. Winter rains and summer mists bathe the forest in moisture; the brilliant greens of life await you. Your voyage will stop at the sites of Tanu, Skedans, and possibly Cumshewa, with time to relax at Hotsprings Island and to explore Burnaby Narrows, Rose Harbour, and Windy Bay. A visit to the village Sgaang Gwaii (or Ninstints, a UN World Heritage Site) will show you the largest collection of standing poles - some two dozen weathered tributes to the Haida ancestors and artists of the 19th century. Birds, and other terrestrial wildlife have been protected by the Haida Nation and the Canadian government with the creation of the Gwaii Haanas National Park Reserve. This preserves the fragile ecology of one of the most wondrous spots in the world. This sailing voyage will work within Park regulations and codes of conduct, while providing you with unequalled access to the natural wonders of Haida Gwaii. FEES NOT INCLUDED IN TRIP FEE Registration Information Bluewater Adventures, Ltd. |