Explore the historic Cannery Channel at the mouth of the Fraser River on a two-hour scenic tour on the MV Gikumi, a west coast wooden work boat built in 1954.
The trip begins at Steveston’s Britannia Shipyards National Historic Site, an 8-acre heritage site featuring a collection of restored heritage buildings from the early 20th century and a collection of west coast wooden boats, boat works, shipyard and net loft. This is the place where people from around the world settled along the Fraser River to work in the salmon fishing, canning and boat building industries that shaped Steveston.
The Voyage of the Gikumi tour starts with a brief guided tour through the Britannia Shipyard building, among the sounds of clanging tools and putt-putt of engines as visitors pass through the shipyard workshop displays.
Passengers will then board the MV Gikumi on the floating docks behind the shipyard building, as the guide shares its notable history, from its working roots as a pilot boat and freight carrier for BC’s forestry industry, to its later life as the first whale watching boat in BC, and past famous passengers such as President George HW Bush and British Prime Minister John Major.
Local history and wildlife
During the voyage, enjoy the guided narration by a local heritage interpreter, and hear stories of the canning and fishing industries in Steveston, and the rich and complex history of its Richmond’s various islands and past residents. From the water, see the giant net needle monument at Garry Point Park, a memorial to those in the commercial fishing industry whose lives were lost at sea, and see the hidden final resting spot of FV Sunny Island, an abandoned former fish-packing boat only visible during low tide, serving as a haunting reminder of how the government sold off the homes, possessions, and boats of Japanese Canadians during their internment in the Second World War.
Between these stories and more, watch for migrating shore birds and wildlife including seals, leaping salmon, and perhaps even an elusive white sturgeon along the route. Bring binoculars to give yourself the advantage to make these first sightings. Enjoy a snack of local blueberries served with a whipped cream topping during the return leg, after having toured by the communities of Ladner, Westham Island, and London Landing.
2024 Departure dates are June 30, July 14, 28, August 10, 11, 17, 23 & 26.
There is something for everyone on the Voyage of the Gikumi – history, nature, and scenic beauty or just a chance to enjoy a relaxing cruise on the water. Book your voyage now!
