Will we see whales, bears, eagles...?
We always have! Luck determines how close wildlife comes to us or how spectacular their behavior. Our crew have a lot of experience spotting wildlife and along with enthusiastic guests spend a great deal of time looking, and finding local species. Bring your binoculars. We take a cautious approach when observing wildlife. We do not want to approach animals in ways that could result in a change in their behavior. We find it is often best to stop the boat, and let marine mammals come as close as they like.

What are the cabins like?
Our six guest cabins are small, but cozy. Linen is supplied, so you won't have to bring a sleeping bag. Each cabin has either a twin upper & lower berth, or a twin & double. You will find that you don't spend much time in your cabin during the day, as there is always something to do. They are comfortable for reading or sleeping & all have opening portholes.

Can I have my own cabin? Is there a single supplement?
Yes, on some trips unless the trip is already fully booked. For a guaranteed private cabin for one person, there may be a single supplement charge. Call for current information if you would like to reserve a cabin for yourself.

How fit do I have to be?
You need a certain amount of strength and agility to climb in and out of small boats, and walk over uneven terrain. Age is usually not a factor. There is always the option to go with the group or stay on board, fish, or explore tide pools & beachcomb.

How safe is the boat?
Very safe, and as the only steel hulled vessel of it's kind in Canada's Pacific fleet,, one of the stoutest. Copper Sky is Coast Guard certified as a passenger vessel in Canada and Mexico, and undergoes yearly safety inspections. We practice preventive maintenance extensively and have not lost a day because of mechanical problems in 15 years service between Mexico, Canada and Alaska.

Do I need sailing experience?
No, but if you are interested in learning about sailing or navigating, our crew would be happy to provide instruction.

Do you offer vegetarian or special diet menus?
Yes. We have vegetarian guests on most of our trips, and are happy to serve vegetarian or seafood dishes at every meal. Our cook is a vegetarian and cooks many delicious meatless dishes

What will the weather be like?
Pacific Northwest weather is generally fair from May through Sept., but plan for a mixture of sunshine, rain and wind and you will be set for whatever happens from day to day.

How rough does it get?
We travel in protected areas most of the time, & always anchor in safe coves every night. On many days of the summer, the sea is flat and calm. Built of steel, and ballasted to survive heavy offshore conditions, Copper Sky has lost only 2 travel days to bad weather in 15 years.

Do I need to bring sea sickness medication?
If you are prone to motion sickness it is a good idea to bring sea sickness medication. Ask your doctor or pharmacist about scopolamine patches and other preventatives such as Dramamine or Gravol.

How much do we sail?
The amount of sailing we do depends on the wind, where we are headed, and the interests of the group. We sail when we can and our itinerary requirements and other activities meld.

What kind of rain gear do I need?
You will need rain pants and a rain jacket (with a hood or rain hat).

What else should I bring?
Shorts, T shirts, sunglasses and sun block. Sun block is a must! The water is exceptionally clear and there is an amazing profusion of marine life, so a mask and snorkel is a good idea. If you don't have any, the skipper usually has an extra set. A suggested list is provided with other trip information when you confirm your reservation.

Do I really need to bring rubber boots?
Yes, and they should be comfortable. There are no docks in the wilderness, and you may need to step into shallow water from our inflatable boats on the beach. Your boots will be very useful for walking up salmon streams as well. If you are not comfortable hiking in your boots you can change into other footwear once you are on shore. For less mobile participants, stay in the skiff and get out last & we'll help keep you dry.

What is the hiking like?
We offer a variety of walks and hikes on our trips. Often there is more than one option at a stop, so you can choose your own level.

How much storage is there in the cabins?
There is limited but adequate storage for the amount of gear you will need on our trips. Soft luggage, like a duffel bag, is most easily stowed as it is compressible. Please don't bring suitcases.

Do you take children on your trips?
Some of our trips are available for family groups or as a family charter of the whole boat.

Is a waiver of liability form required?
We do ask those who travel with us to read and sign an 'acknowledgement of risk' form typical of soft adventure tours aboard sailing ships in wilderness areas. Basically, it is an acknowledgement that travel in isolated wilderness areas on a sailing ship, in skiffs, and on shore has a different risk factor than, for example, visiting a museum or zoo in a North American or European city.

How much space is there aboard?
We are one of the few tour operators that offer private cabins on boats of this size. The saloon comfortably seats 12, and there is a lot of space topsides, aft, midships, or on the foredeck for a little solitude, and to enjoy what the day has to offer.

How often do we get off the boat?
Usually two or three times each day for a shore excursion, and whenever you like after we have anchored for the evening, perhaps to paddle the canoe or kayak, or walk along the shore.

What about smoking?
On the lee side of the weather deck only. Very few of our guests smoke, and there is no smoking below deck.

Can I bring my hair dryer, electric shaver? Can I recharge my video batteries?
Yes, we have regular 110 volt AC household current available 24 hours per day for charging. It is a good idea to bring an extra video battery. Our generator provides 110 v for hair dryers from 0700 until about 1000 PM, and our silent inverter provides AC power after that.

Can I use my cellular phone?
Satellite phones work fine, but Cellular coverage is poor to non-existent in wilderness areas which we travel at this time, but service is scheduled for 2003. We can contact civilization for emergencies with our VHF and our long range radios.

How often can I shower?
Every day, but short hot showers please. We have three showers on board, and carry plenty of fresh, wholeseome water, but water conservation is always practiced aboard ships at sea.

What qualifications do the crew have?
We have a licensed captain and our crew have extensive experience in marine engineering, training in emergency procedures, boat handling , and Advanced Wilderness First Aid.

Is it appropriate to tip the crew? How much?
Let your appreciation be your guide. If you feel that the crew have done well in contributing to your experience, a gratuity is always an appreciated validation of their extra effort.

Use of kayak or canoe?
Yes! We have one of each, & they are for use in sight of the boat when we are at anchor. They are a wonderful way to enjoy solitude and explore the shore line. Our crew will be happy to give you instruction.

What kind of equipment is good for photographing wildlife?
For good wildlife pictures, you will often require a telescopic lens. A lens of 300 mm often does the job, while lenses with lengths of 180 - 300 mm generally give good results in varying conditions.
Consider bringing fairly fast film to capture whale breaches and other action photos, and to allow photography in the low light of morning or evening. A tripod is a good idea in the forest.

Will I be able to fish?
Yes! Our trips focus mainly on wildlife viewing, and usually only a small number of our guests are interested in fishing. We do provide tackle, but if you plan to fish, you will need to purchase a fishing license in Vancouver, Sandspit, or Queen Charlotte City before you join the trip.