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 rainforests meet 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 very memorable west coast experience.

This custom tour welcomes photographers of all levels eager to capture the essence of British Columbia’s coastal beauty. 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.

    InnChanter - Your Floating Home Away from Home

    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. 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 cocktails, making each night as memorable as the day’s adventures.

    Ahous Adventures - Private Charter to Hot Springs Cove

    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.

    Subtidal Adventures - Sunrise and Wildlife in Barkley Sound

    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 and capturing the coastal landscapes comfortably.

  • Please keep in mind that this is a rough itinerary that is subject to change. A finalized itinerary will be sent to registered guests.

    Day 1: 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 your unique floating accommodation.

    • Evening – Dinner on board the InnChanter. Optional group editing session.

    Day 2: Barkley Sound Sunrise with Subtidal Adventures

    • 6:00 AM – Sunrise departure with Subtidal Adventures for a guided tour of Barkley Sound. Cruise the Sound, spotting wildlife and capturing coastal landscapes.

    • 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 3: Hot Springs & Coastal Wonders with Ahous Adventures

    • Morning – Shuttle to Tofino and meet Ahous Adventures for a private chartered hot springs tour. Relax and unwind at Hot Springs Cove. Spot coastal wildlife along the way.

    • Afternoon – Lunch in Tofino. Gallery tour and wander around town before heading back to Ucluelet.
      Free time to relax onboard the ship.

    • 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 4: Departure

    • Morning – Enjoy a relaxed breakfast on board and soak in the last moments on the InnChanter before checking out at 10am.

    • Mid-day – Scenic stroll along the Wild Pacific Trail.

    • Afternoon Departure – Say our “see you laters” to our new friends.

  • • 3 nights accommodation for duration of trip.

    • Your own private stateroom for 3 nights aboard the InnChanter

    • Boat shuttles to and from Ucluelet marina out to the InnChanter at anchor. (About 5-minute boat ride each way)

    •Photography guide.

    Taylor’s aim is to get you in the best possible positions to capture incredible imagery with respect to ethical wildlife photography practice. Taylor is also there to help and critique wherever necessary.

    • 2 Private Boat Charters.

    A 6 hour private charter with Subtidal Adventures and a 5 hour private charter with Ahous Adventures. This includes stewardship and BC Park use fees.

    • Chef + Meals.

    All of your meals along with snacks will be included in this tour.

    Your dietary preferences will be taken into consideration for each meal.

    • Scenic float plane ride. 30 minute flight along the coast line to familiarize yourself with the surroundings.

    • A welcome package from my sponsors.

  • 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.

    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.

Small Group. Big Adventures. Lasting Memories.

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.

Meet Your Host,
Taylor Burk.

Space Is Limited.

Book Now Before It's Too Late!

Space Is Limited. Book Now Before It's Too Late!

Reserved

Please choose another stateroom.


$3,350 CAD

+applicable taxes (~$2,340 USD)


$3,250 CAD

+applicable taxes (~$2,270 USD)


Reserved

Please choose another stateroom.


$3,250 CAD

+applicable taxes (~$2,270 USD)


Please choose another stateroom.

Reserved

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.

For couples interested in booking and sharing a room, please inquire for more details.

FAQ

    • 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).

  • 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.

  • 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.

  • 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.

  • We will be meeting at the Ucluelet Harbour.

    This will also be your drop off point. Free parking is available here.

  • 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!

  • 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!

  • 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.

  • We are accepting and encouraging international bookings.

  • 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.

  • 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.

  • 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.

  • 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.

  • Unfortunately not, as much as we love animals your stateroom and the ships are completely pet free.

  • 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

    • 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

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