Cruise Planning Canada’s summer sailing season typically runs from late May to early autumn, but dates vary according to climate differences across the country. For example, the season for boat tours in Newfoundland will naturally be different from those in the middle of the country. Those booking a cruise early often enjoy discounted pricing and the selection of preferred accommodations. Also, the pre-cruise booking of onshore excursions eliminates the disappointment of finding the most popular options already filled. The same early booking of onboard “specialty” restaurants applies. Among several simple, but important matters to consider before departure is travel insurance and making sure that any prescription medications are current. Equally important is understanding what’s required in terms of travel documents. Many cruises, particularly those offered by the big ships, traditionally require a valid passport or other forms of identification and proof of citizenship. If the cruise itinerary includes foreign destinations, it’s important to determine if visas might be necessary. On any cruise, large or small, it’s wise to carry emergency contact information. British Columbia The majority of summer cruises along the coast of Canada’s westernmost province depart from Vancouver and sail north. A variety of trip itineraries explore the immense beauty of the Pacific Northwest. Heading north through the sheltered waters of the heavily travelled Inside Passage between the B.C. mainland and Vancouver Island, the route weaves through picturesque islands, fjords and bays. From there, it continues north to the Alaska panhandle and, depending on cruise itineraries, port stops often include the U.S. cities of Juneau, Skagway and Ketchikan where there are abundant opportunities for onshore excursions: glacier tours, dogsledding, gold panning, wilderness zip-lining and ice-field helicopter tours. Overall, the trip is renowned for stunning scenery including glaciers, mountains and wildlife. There is also a handful of small-ship expeditions that exclusively explore the Inside Passage only. More intimate and more flexible than the big-ship cruises, their itineraries focus primarily on whale-watching, wildlife viewing and exploring glaciers and rainforests. A bonus of many B.C. West Coast cruises is the convenience of them beginning and ending in Vancouver. Stay Local This Winter with Pathfinder Camp Resorts Full-service RV sites Premium amenities Warm snowbird community Close to shops & attractions Mild winter experience Surrounded by nature Skip the border. Enjoy peaceful, seasonal winter RV stays with everything you need, right here in beautiful BC. Apply now for Winter 2025-26 Call 1-866-267-3678 www.PathfinderCampResorts.com Choose your desired location Agassiz-Harrison Fort Langley Parksville CSANews | SUMMER 2025 | 21 Travel
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