Cradled in the protective arms of Cormorant Island, the historical village of Alert Bay offers visitors an incredible look at the 'Namgis First Nation heritage as well as a unique experience in this friendly costal community.Visit the Alert Bay Big House and discover the rich past of the Kwakwaka’wakw through their traditional dances. During the summer months the Tsasala Cultural Group awe crowds with the movements and sounds of the time-honoured celebrations. Call ahead to confirm the performance schedule.
Explore the treasures of the U'mista Cultural Centre as you examine masks and regalia of the Potlatch Collection that was taken and then returned to the Kwakwaka'wakw. See the world's tallest Totem Pole, the old Anglican Church and chapel. Enjoy a stroll along the main street of the oldest community on Northern Vancouver Island. Hike or bike along the myriad of nature trails that wind their way through the Island. Walk along the Ecological Park, a quiet marshy area of snags and moss covered trees. An amazing array of plants, shrubs, and birds can be found in the mystical Ecological Rain Forest Park.
Transportation to Alert Bay is via BC Ferries. This car ferry leaves from Port McNeill, 463 km (289 mi.) north of Victoria, between 8:40 am and 9:15 pm seven days a week. While chartered flights to Cormorant Island’s fully paved airstrip are available, commercial airline service is to Port Hardy, 44 km (27 mi.) north of Port McNeill. Population: 1500Elevation: 63 m (207 ft.)Average July Temperature: 14ºC (57ºF)Average January Temperature: 3ºC (38ºF)Annual Rainfall: 154 cm (61 in.)Annual Snowfall: 70 cm (28in.)
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