Eco-Cruising

Won’t You Let the Smiley’s Take You on an Eco Cruise?

Thinking about cruising but looking for something different and more intimate? Well look no further than EcoCruising. But what is EcoCruising you say? Well according to EcoCruising Tours and Charters owners Brian, Roxy and Matt Smiley, the unique touring concept relates to their dedication to ocean stewardship and marine education. The company’s skippers are also expert ecologist guides and fun storytellers who offer 'edu-taining' onboard narratives about the rich marine wildlife in these local waters and islets.

The 'Eco' in EcoCruising also relates to the family's commitment to sustainable operations; while the 'Cruising' in EcoCruising reflects the vessels' unique living room atmosphere. They use low-tech pontoon vessels that are economical to operate, easy to maintain and versatile. Imagine if you were to hop on board one of their three vessels, SeaStar I, II or III; you would come away with a unique experience that marries luxury and comfort with the enjoyment of the natural wonders of a beautiful rugged coastline and marine park islands where seals, whales, sea stars and jelly fish live. Each 28-foot boat holds 12 passengers and surrounds you with tranquil comfort on soft sofas, while it safely cradles you under an all-weather glass dome so you can view the awe-inspiring marine wildlife that call Saanich Peninsula and Saanich Inlet home.

EcoCruising is an ideal activity for everyone of all ages looking for a marine wildlife cruise and with that in mind, the company offers something for everyone and all tastes, including gourmet picnics and sunset cruises for hotel guests; fun tours for seniors from lodges and retirement homes; stable boat rides for clients in wheelchairs; ecology expeditions for world-travelers; eagle viewing for longstay ‘snowbirds’; birthday parties, anniversaries, wedding ceremonies, reunions and memorials.

Want to know who’s already taken advantage of the distinctive experience that EcoCruising has to offer? For example, television talent from the reality show, Canada’s Next Top Model has taken a cruise. In fact, the models came aboard for the premier show, and were filmed as they were taxied to their then secret home in Saanich Inlet.

You would be joining the more than 3000 people who’ve already enjoyed a 30-minute to 3-hour EcoCruise, on one of EcoCruising’s daily tours for wildlife viewing, private charters for group celebrations, shuttles to The Butchart Gardens, or ferry rides to Piers Island.  EcoCruising Charters and Tours departs seasonally and year-round from three locations on Vancouver Island in B.C.; Brentwood Bay Marina, Canoe Cove Marina and Sidney Wharf. In addition to the scenic cruises, services include; scheduled ferry and water taxi to Piers Island, water limo to The Butchart Gardens, as well as water taxis to Portland, Russell and Sidney islands. They also offer wheelchair access and easy parking as well as special discounts and passes. For more information or to book an eco cruise, water taxi or ferry, please visit www.EcoCruising.com or call Tel: 250.655.5211 (bus.) or email info@ecocruising.com.