The Best of The West—Vancouver Island.
Heritage Ships, Hot Springs, Wildlife, Float Planes, Coastal Landscapes & More!
Join photographer Taylor Burk and friends for an unforgettable tour along Vancouver Island’s rugged western coastline, where dense rainforest meets the Pacific Ocean. This unique journey blends adventure and photography with moments of rest and connection. From historic wooden ships and secluded islands to local culture, you’ll join a community of adventurous individuals for a memorable west coast experience.
This custom tour invites outdoor enthusiasts, adventurers, and photographers of all skill levels to join!
Your Floating Basecamp.
Step back in time aboard The InnChanter, a beautifully restored 1920s heritage vessel, crafted to capture the elegance and charm of its era. Anchored in the Ucluelet Inlet, this floating retreat offers a uniquely immersive way to experience the west coast. Spend time exploring the scenic surroundings by SUP and kayak, or unwind in the sauna and top deck as you take in the views.
Itinerary
Welcome & Orientation
Morning: Arrive in Ucluelet and get acquainted with the crew.
Afternoon: Lunch in town followed by a scenic 30 minute float plane flight over the coastline to get your bearings of the landscape.
Late Afternoon: Check-in to our unique accommodation. Basecamp for the duration of the trip will be aboard the InnChanter, a reimagined 1920’s coastal freighter that has been transformed into a floating inn.
Evening: Dinner and sunset on board the InnChanter. Optional group editing session.
Day 1 - May 6th
Barkley Sound Sunrise with Subtidal Adventures
Morning: Sunrise cruise through Barkley Sound on the Dixie IV, a beautifully restored wood boat with tons of character. Guided by Subtidal Adventures, we’ll head out from Ucluelet to explore the Broken Islands Group. With both an enclosed cabin and an open deck, the Dixie IV offers the perfect vantage points for spotting wildlife (whales, bears, otters, bald eagles and more) and capturing the coastal landscapes comfortably.
Afternoon: Lunch onboard the Innchanter. Free time to relax onboard the ship or wander around Ucluelet. Take the kayaks or SUPs out for a paddle or enjoy the sauna and cold dips.
Evening: Dinner and sunset onboard the InnChanter. Optional group editing session.
Day 2 - May 7th
Hot Springs & Coastal Exploration with Ahous Adventures
Morning: Shuttle to Tofino for a privately chartered 5 hour hot springs tour. Experience the beauty of Hot Springs Cove, guided by Indigenous operated Ahous Adventures. This private charter takes us deep into the rainforest, where the waters run warm. We'll have exclusive early access, allowing us to visit before any other tour operators. Enjoy a soak in natural hot springs by the ocean, spot coastal wildlife, and stroll along a boardwalk trail through massive old-growth trees.
Afternoon: Lunch in Tofino. Gallery tour and wander around town before heading back to the InnChanter. Free time to relax onboard the ship or wander around Ucluelet. Take the kayaks or SUPs out for a paddle or enjoy the sauna and cold dips..
Evening: Dinner and sunset on board the InnChanter.
Night: A bartender will join us to mix up drinks as we celebrate our last night together—dress up for a themed evening!
Day 3 - May 8th
Departure
Morning: Enjoy a relaxed morning and breakfast on board, soaking in the last moments on the InnChanter before checking out at 10am.
Mid-day: We will head out on a scenic hike along the Wild Pacific Trail.
Afternoon Departure: Say our “see you laters” to our new friends.
Day 4 - May 9th
Small Group.
Big Adventures.
Lasting Memories.
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• 3 Nights of Comfortable Accommodation
Stay in your own private stateroom aboard the charming InnChanter for three nights, offering a peaceful and immersive experience on the water. Enjoy the serenity and stunning views, with easy access to the adventure-filled coastline.• Expert Photography Guidance
Taylor will be your dedicated photography guide, helping you find the perfect angles and lighting to capture inspiring images of the natural beauty around you. With an emphasis on ethical wildlife photography practices, you'll be guided to create stunning shots while respecting the environment. Taylor will also provide helpful critiques to refine your skills.• 2 Exclusive Private Boat Charters
Embark on two private boat charters, a 6-hour adventure with Subtidal Adventures and a 5-hour exploration with Ahous Adventures. These charters are designed for photographers and adventurers alike, with all BC Park use fees and stewardship included. Experience the coast in a way that few get to—up close and personal.• Scenic Float Plane Ride
Enjoy a 30-minute float plane ride, giving you a bird’s-eye view of the rugged coastline and wilderness. This is the perfect opportunity to familiarize yourself with the area and scout potential photo opportunities from the sky.• Gourmet Meals
Enjoy freshly prepared meals, snacks, and drinks throughout the tour. Our chef will cater to your dietary preferences, ensuring each meal enhances your experience. Focus on the adventure while we take care of everything else.• Welcome Package
Receive a special welcome package upon arrival, complete with goodies to help you get started on your adventure. It’s our way of saying "Welcome aboard!" -
Explore dramatic temperate rainforests, remote hot springs, and white sand beaches, with each stop offering new perspectives and incredible photo opportunities. Our trusted partners—InnChanter, Ahous Adventures, and Subtidal Adventures—enhance each day with authentic experiences, immersing you in the land, sea, and local culture.
On this photo tour, everything is chartered privately, giving us the freedom to decide where to stop and what to focus on—an experience you won’t find on a regular guided tour. We’re not bound by rigid schedules or mixed group interests; instead, our priority is creating the ideal setting for photography.
With this dedicated approach, we can spend as much time as needed with our subjects, waiting for the perfect light and capturing those fleeting moments. Our goal is to place you in the best possible position—while maintaining a respectful and ethical approach toward wildlife—to capture incredible images and fully enjoy the experience.
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Kick back in a one-of-a-kind accommodation experience that merges rustic charm with cozy comfort. Spend time exploring the scenic surroundings by SUP and kayak, or unwind in the sauna and top deck as you take in the views. In the evenings, gather for sunset sessions, storytelling, games, and drinks, making each night as memorable as the day’s adventures.
With six crafted staterooms and a cozy main saloon with a wood-burning fireplace, The InnChanter combines comfort with character. Enjoy meals prepared daily by our on-board chef in the panoramic dining room with ocean views, or sip a drink at the bar, surrounded by stunning coastal scenery. A 700-square-foot sundeck and a floating wood-fired sauna invite you to soak up the inlets ambiance or warm up after a cold plunge.
From the comfort of the saloon, look out for black bears, seals, eagles, and more. Feel free to cast a line off the deck for crabbing and fishing or simply relax and take it all in.
Meet Your Host,
Taylor Burk.
Taylor Burk is a renowned photographer and passionate about sharing his wealth of knowledge and expertise with aspiring photographers. With over a decade of dedicated experience, Taylor possesses an extraordinary talent for capturing the intricate beauty of the natural world. His photography and compelling narratives have forged a prominent online presence, establishing him as a distinguished creative force in the world of visual storytelling.
Learn more here.
Rooms & Pricing
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Stateroom One: Library
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Stateroom Two: Princess
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Stateroom Three: Kelp
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Stateroom Four: Blue
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Stateroom Five: Forest
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Stateroom Six: Nook
Space Is Limited.
Book Now Before It's Too Late!
Space Is Limited. Book Now Before It's Too Late!
For couples interested in booking and sharing a room, please inquire for more details.
A $1,000 deposit is required to reserve your spot, following payments can be made in instalments. Booking and cancellation policy details can be found here, please read over them before booking.
FAQ
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Travel costs to reach our meeting point as well as accommodations before and after the tour are the responsibility of the participant. (We recommend that you arrive a day early to make sure you are here on time.)
Breakfast on day 1 and dinner on day 4 will not be included.
Alcohol—guests are welcome to bring their own to enjoy responsibly at the end of the day! There will be some cocktails included one night.
Any optional add-ons.
Travel/Trip Insurance (recommended).
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While we can never guarantee what the sightings will be on any given tour, the timing is right for the potential to see all of the local highlights.
In May, the black bears are back out and feeding during the low tide periods of the day and the whale migration is also in full swing. -
For information regarding travel to our meeting spot in Ucluelet, visit this link: https://www.discoverucluelet.com/getting-here/
You can book a direct ride to our meeting spot from the Tofino airport through these operators:
Coastal Rides:Local rideshare service. Book online or download the app in the App Store or on Google Play.Pacific Rim Navigators: Shuttle & private car service +1 (250) 725-8393
Tofino Taxi: Call +1 (250) 725-3333. Cash-only service.
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Registered tour guests will receive a special 15% off discount code for Tin Wis Resort and Tsawaak RV Resort. Both are great options with tons of other additional perks for guests.
There are a bunch of other great options available in town, view them here. -
Once you pay your initial deposit you can make incremental payments that you're comfortable with.
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Absolutely! You don’t have to be a photographer to join, you're more than welcome to come for the experience and enjoy good company in nature! Feel free to just use your phone and soak in the moments as they happen.
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We will be meeting at the Ucluelet Harbour.
This will also be your drop off point. Free parking is available here.
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This trip will be photography focused meaning that we will be dedicating as much time needed with our subjects, waiting for the best light and moments. Everything is chartered privately, you don’t get the same experience on a regular guided trip as there are more time constraints and mixed group interests.
Our aim is to put you in the best position possible to capture incredible images and have a great time doing so!
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Yes absolutely, allergies and sensitivities will be taken into consideration for each meal. please let us know in advance and we will make sure you are taken care of!
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There is no wifi, but there is cell service if you want to create a hotspot.
One of the charms of the boat! Use it as a time to unplug.
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We are accepting and encouraging international bookings.
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Yes, if you have one and are licensed, feel free to bring it. Keep in mind that there are some restrictions in areas that we will be visiting.
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While the excursion is moderately active with light hiking, encountering slippery shorelines and boarding the boat may present challenges, particularly for individuals with specific disabilities.
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Guests need to be prepared for all kinds of weather. Spring on the coast means sunshine and warmth but also rain and cool temperatures.
A packing list will be sent out to you upon registration.
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The boat is powered by 12v solar panels so the power supply is very limited. The battery reserves are needed to run the boat. They do have outlets available to charge phones and cameras, but items that require large power draws such hair dryers and CPAP machines can unfortunately not be accommodated.
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Unfortunately not, as much as we love animals your stateroom and the ships are completely pet free.
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Here is a list of gear that I would recommend you have with you:
Camera backpack (ideally something that is water proof or resistant)
DSLR or mirrorless camera body
16-35mm lens
24-70mm lens
70-200mm lens
Any lens longer than 200mm is very ideal for wildlife photos
Various ND filters/polarizers/holders for all lenses
Extra batteries
Lens cloth / cleaner
A detailed packing list will be sent out to registered guests.
Photo Credit: Taylor Burk, Ahous Adventures / Ben Glassco, InnChanter / Sara Spectrum, Subtidal Adventures
Partners
Sharpen your skills beforehand.
Taylor’s online landscape photography workshop is currently on sale for only $99!