Cultural Canoe Tours

 

First Nations Cultural Canoe Tours in traditionally painted red and black canoes are available along the Somass River or Sproat Lake. Each location’s cultural experience begins with paddling instructions by fully trained and water-certified guides. See their operation along River Road in Port Alberni.

 

The Nuu-cha-nulth First Nations is made up of 14 bands that have their traditional territories along the west coast of Vancouver Island. In the Port Alberni area, the Hupacasath (say, HOO-pa-chess-at) originated in the Sproat Lake and Great Central Lakes, and the larger group, the Tseshaht (say, TSEE-shot) obtained their living from the sea.

 

Hupacasath canoe tours include songs and stories by the guides. Traditional salmon barbecue dinners are also available.