by Natasha Lair
Last updated: 4:30 PM ET, Mon October 19, 2026
Canadian small-ship operator Maple Leaf Adventures is highlighting five Pacific coast destinations for 2027, as interest in wildlife, Indigenous tourism and travel beyond traditional cruise ports continues to grow.
The Vancouver-based company, which marks 40 years of operations in 2026, says travellers are increasingly looking for experiences that take them beyond familiar destinations, including remote coastlines, lesser-visited communities and wildlife-rich regions.
Maple Leaf Adventures has identified destinations in British Columbia and Alaska that reflect these changing travel interests.
Great Bear Rainforest, British Columbia
The Great Bear Rainforest is home to grizzly bears, black bears, wolves and the rare white spirit bear.
While summer and fall are traditionally popular times to visit, Maple Leaf Adventures sees growing potential for spring travel, when bears emerge to forage, migratory birds return and waterfalls are fed by melting snow.
The company plans to double its spring capacity in 2027, introducing its expedition vessel Cascadia to the region during that season for the first time.
The year also marks a decade since B.C. ended grizzly bear hunting, an important milestone for the region's conservation-based tourism industry.
Great Bear Rainforest (Photo Credit: Maple Leaf Adventures)
Haida Gwaii, British Columbia
Located off B.C.'s northern coast, Haida Gwaii is attracting attention for its Indigenous culture, protected landscapes and evolving approach to tourism.
The archipelago is entering a new chapter following the recognition of Haida Aboriginal title, with another implementation milestone expected in 2027.
Visitors can experience ancient village sites with Haida Gwaii Watchmen, while Haida Storytellers join Maple Leaf Adventures expeditions aboard Cascadia to share traditional and contemporary perspectives.
The region is also home to Gwaii Haanas and the UNESCO World Heritage Site of SG̱ang Gwaay, accessible by sea or air.
Southeast Alaska
Although Alaska remains a major cruise destination, Maple Leaf Adventures is encouraging travellers to look beyond the region's ports.
Southeast Alaska's Inside Passage includes remote islands, glacial fjords and sections of the Tongass National Forest that are less accessible to conventional cruise ships.
Small-ship expeditions provide access to smaller communities and anchorages, offering a different perspective on the region.
The company also points to the continuing retreat of Alaska's glaciers and renewed debate over protections for roadless areas in the Tongass National Forest as reasons the destination deserves attention.
Southeast Alaska (Photo Credit: Maple Leaf Adventures)
Northwest Vancouver Island
While Vancouver Island is a well-established tourism destination, its northwest coast receives considerably fewer visitors than the island's southern and eastern regions.
The area is known for its old-growth forests, remote islands and marine wildlife, including sea otters, puffins and whales.
Maple Leaf Adventures says the region aligns with Destination BC's Infinite Coast strategy, which encourages tourism development beyond established destinations, including nature-based and Indigenous tourism.
With limited road access and tourism infrastructure, small ships offer another way to explore the coastline.
Desolation Sound and the Salish Sea
Closer to Vancouver, Desolation Sound and the Salish Sea offer opportunities to experience coastal wilderness without travelling to more remote parts of British Columbia.
The region has seen a return of humpback whales, while conservation efforts continue to focus on endangered Southern Resident killer whales.
Canada has committed $258 million to whale protection measures, including initiatives addressing underwater noise and vessel activity in the Salish Sea.
Maple Leaf Adventures is also drawing attention to spring departures, when waterways are generally quieter and wildlife activity increases.
Haida Gwaii, British Columbia (Photo Credit: Maple Leaf Adventures)
What Travel Advisors Should Know
Maple Leaf Adventures will offer expeditions across all five destinations in 2027, with departures beginning in April and continuing through October, depending on the itinerary.
The company's vessels accommodate between eight and 24 guests, offering a small-group alternative to larger cruise ships.
Starting fares and departure periods for 2027 are:
| Destination | Departures | Starting fare (CAD/person) |
|---|
| Great Bear Rainforest | April–October | $5,500 |
| Haida Gwaii | May–July | $9,750 |
| Southeast Alaska | June–August | $14,070 |
| Northwest Vancouver Island | July–August | $7,300 |
| Desolation Sound & Salish Sea | April–May, October | $3,995 |
All fares are listed as all-inclusive starting prices in Canadian dollars, per person.
Founded in 1986, Maple Leaf Adventures operates three vessels: the historic schooner Maple Leaf, converted tugboat Swell and expedition catamaran Cascadia.
More information is available at mapleleafadventures.com.
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