Whale watching, kayaking, salmon fishing-all right here in Alert Bay, on beautiful Cormorant Island, just a 45-minute BC Ferry trip from Vancouver Island's Port McNeill. For the culturally inclined, Alert Bay offers a glimpse into the past, with its historic old buildings and museums. The 'Namgis Burial Ground and its hauntingly beautiful totems, the potlatch collection at the U'mista Cultural Centre, or perhaps a ceremonial dance performance by the T'sasala Cultural Group at the Big House-available during July and August-to give a glimpse of centuries of tradition.

Feel like getting a little exercise? There are 15 km of woodland trails, predator-free and naturally beautiful. Stroll around our picturesque Town Square area and enjoy the ever-changing views of water and mountains.

Our pub has the largest waterfront deck in the North Island. It was built on pilings, so it is literally "on the water." Legend has it that in the wintertime, when the tide is high enough, and the infamous Nimpkish Wind is blowing directly across the strait from the mouth of the Nimpkish River, the floor of the pub gets flooded and gumboots are the order of the day!

The view is spectacular-the rolling hills of Vancouver Island are seen a mile or two across the water. Watch the seine boats and gillnetters heading for their home ports, the cruise ships gliding by on their return from Alaska, and the tugs pulling all manner of goods up and down the coast.

And don't forget to watch for whales-they're regularly spotted from our deck, along with some curious seals. The local bald eagle family puts on a regular show, and you might catch a glimpse of a mink hurrying by. We don't know any better place to sit with a glass and a plate.