Water Activities & Boat Charters with SLJ Charters in Tofino
Difficulty
easy
Duration
3–4 hours
Fitness Level
All ages and fitness levels welcome, minimal physical exertion
Overview
Embark on a scenic cruise from Tofino dock to Meares Island with SLJ Charters, revealing rainforests, wildlife, and local history in one unforgettable trip.
Round Trip To Meares Island Leaving Tofino Dock
All Ages • 2 hour self guided walk • Up to 6 Guests
Select participants and date
About This Adventure
We Run Peak Season Scheduled Charters to Meares ‘Big Tree’ Island!
Duration
The trail walk is approximately 1.5 hours. You must be back at the dock for your return trip to Tofino within 2 hours. If you leave Tofino at 9am you should be back at the Meares Island Dock by 11am for pick up and return to Tofino. The boat ride itself is only 5-10 minutes.
All Fees and Taxes included
About
Amidst the archipelago, the silhouette of Meares Island emerges, a reminder of the enduring bond between our people and the natural world. It is here, amidst the ancient Red Cedars—some of the eldest sentinels of these lands—that we invite you to journey with us. Embark from Tofino on a brief voyage across the waters that have sustained us for millennia, to the trailhead of the Big Tree, or venture further to Lone Cone, where the summit offers a view that the eagles know well, a panoramic embrace of our lands.
The Big Tree trail is a path of connection, a 620-meter boardwalk that weaves through the forest, guiding you to the Hanging Garden Tree. This majestic being, with its 18.3-meter girth and towering height of 42.7 meters, stands as a testament to the resilience and beauty of our land. The walk is short, but the experience is timeless, inviting you to pause, breathe deeply, and become one with the forest that has provided for us since time immemorial. We allot visitors around 1.5 hours to immerse themselves in this living legacy.
More Info
Departing from and Returning to Tofino Airlines Dock.
Adventure Tips
Bring layers and waterproof gear
Weather can shift quickly on the water, so be prepared for wind and rain.
Bring binoculars and camera
Enhance wildlife viewing and capture stunning coastal scenes during your trip.
Book in advance
Trips fill up fast, especially in peak season; reserve your spot early.
Arrive early at the dock
Allow time for check-in and safety instructions before departure.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- Humpback whales
- Sea lions
History
Meares Island was once a hub for the coastal logging industry and holds significance in the region's Indigenous heritage.
Conservation
SLJ Charters emphasizes sustainable practices, respecting marine ecosystems and promoting environmental awareness among visitors.
Select participants and date
Adventure Hotspots in Vancouver
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Weather-appropriate clothing
Layered, waterproof clothing to stay comfortable on the water.
spring|summer|fall|winter specific
Binoculars
Great for spotting wildlife from the boat.
Camera
Capture the scenic views and wildlife encounters.
Sun protection
Sunscreen, hat, or sunglasses to shield from UV rays.
summer specific