Detailed Itinerary

Day 1 - Arrive in Vancouver
Settle into your downtown hotel and get out to explore one of the most beautiful cities in the world - surrounded by mountains and ocean, with a laid-back ‘west coast’ feel - the ideal start to Canada family vacations. Enjoy a leisurely meal or a drink at an outdoor cafe; or shake off the cobwebs of your flight with a walk or cycle around Stanley Park. Overnight in Vancouver.

Day 2 - Embrace the Charms of Victoria on Vacations to Canada
Choose to spend the morning exploring Vancouver some more then pick up your hire-car and drive to the ferry terminal south of the city, for a leisurely ferry ride through the Gulf Islands to Victoria, British Columbia’s capital city. Or head out early and spend your afternoon in Victoria. Be sure to make a stop at Butchart Gardens which is on your way into the city of Victoria, admission has been included.Take a stroll around the bustling harbor, or visit one of Victoria’s fascinating museums or splendid gardens. Overnight in Victoria.

Day 3 - In Victoria/Travel to Salt Spring Island
Spend the morning touring Victoria, or choose from a number of activities to enjoy in Victoria which the Fresh Tracks staff can assist you with. Choose an afternoon tea at the Fairmont Empress hotel, tour the Royal BC Museum or take in a thrilling whalewatching tour.

You will then make your way to the ferry terminal for your 2nd ferry journey of the trip to the Vancouver Gulf Island - Salt Spring Island. You will spend the next 2 nights at a country bed & breakfast.

Day 4 -Salt Spring Island Explorations
Today is free to explore the island - once a hippy haven it is now a little more up-market, yet still ‘alternative’ in its own way. You may choose to rent a bicycle or a sea-kayak, or simply drive around the island stopping when you choose to browse around an artist’s studio, visit a farmers’ market, or taste some local wines at a few different wineries.

Day 5 - Visit Campbell River
Today you explore the eastern side of Vancouver Island. Leaving Salt Spring Island by ferry, you then drive a few hours north to ‘The Salmon Capital of the World’, Campbell River. Take your time traveling to Campbell River as there are plenty of coastal small towns to drive through such as Qualicum Beach. A stop at Chemainus is highly recommended where you can see the huge heritage murals that have painted throughout the town. Overnight in Campbell River.

Day 6 - Wildlife Cruise - Campbell River
Today you will join a wildlife cruise by Zodiac in search of black bears, stellar sea lions, minke whales, pacific white-sided dolphins, bald eagles and more... the rest of the day is at your leisure. Overnight in Campbell River.

Day 7 - Campbell River to Vancouver
Journey part way down Vancouver Island where you then make your away back to the mainland of Vancouver. You will disembark off of another ferry this time ending up in Horseshoe Bay - a great place to enjoy some fish and chips! Then it’s a short drive to downtown Vancouver where you will spend your last night.

Day 8 - Depart Vancouver
Today, alas, your vacation ends as you return your car at Vancouver International Airport in time for your flight home.