"The remote coast is full of mysteries still being researched, and it's visually spectacular," says Maureen Gordon, crew of the schooner Maple Leaf, and the show's producer. "This year, we wanted to bring a different, more in-depth show to Comox, and we're thrilled that researchers from Raincoast will be sharing the results of their recent projects with the audience."

The show includes two parts:

• The first part is a slide show odyssey along the coast aboard the Maple Leaf, to coastal fjords, Alaska's tidewater glaciers, and seabird islands off the wild west coast of Brooks Peninsula on Vancouver Island. Photographs will take people to places beyond the reach of roads, into the heart of rich wildlife habitat.
• The second part includes recent discoveries about coastal wolves, marine mammals and the Great Bear Rainforest's marine environment, grizzly and spirit bear research, and the future of the area. Presenter Brian Falconer, director of Raincoast's marine program, will also discuss the Foundation's purchase of the commercial hunting guide outfitter license in the area, and the impacts it's had on wildlife.

Comox Valley residents may recognize the Maple Leaf from the summers she spends in Comox sail training the Royal Canadian Sea Cadets. In spring and fall, the vessel operates high-end eco-cruises in the Great Bear Rainforest, southeast Alaska, Haida Gwaii and the Vancouver Island area. The trips are recommended by Frommer's as one of the six "Best Travel Experiences" in Canada. Raincoast's research has been featured in many television programs, including a full-length feature by National Geographic.

For lovers of wooden boats, the show also includes photographs and history of the 92-foot Maple Leaf, B.C.'s heritage tall ship. It's also a rare chance to speak with Brian Falconer, the man who spent seven years restoring the ship from 1979-1986.

Maple Leaf's staff will have travel information available for those who are interested in exploring the coast on one of their eco-cruises. Voyages this spring include: