I read the article in Westworld this time last year, was captivated by the thought of sailing into such wild territory off the west coast and immediately made a reservation; the ship was already half booked for departure in April of this year.

I returned from the voyage early in May and I and my fellow passengers have a new understanding of the importance of saving the Great Bear from any further logging. I strongly believe that any future commercial or industrial activity (such as fish farming and logging) must be very carefully considered before any vast decisions are made with half - vast information. The ecosystems are so closely interconnected and fragile and the area so special because it is so untouched that we must treat it with very special care. Extending further protection to the area is essential - are you listening, Gordon Campbell?

The voyage took us to places inaccessible to most other travellers and Captain Kevin Smith showed us special places that possibly only he knew. We were cold and wet much of the time - the snow was still down to sea level! - but snug, well fed and superbly cared for by the crew of Maple Leaf. Would I go again? - Well, the Tall Sails and Ales cruise looks interesting next spring . . .

Sincerely,

Mark Hambridge
Calgary, Alberta