Outer Shores Expedition good as gold!

(Photo courtesy of Outer Shores Expeditions)

The west coast of British Columbia, especially in some of the more remote regions, offers visitors a magical, perhaps almost mystical experience of Mother Nature and history combined. I remember a week I spent touring in and around Haida Gwaii a couple of years ago, much of it by boat and Zodiac, that ranks as one of my most memorable. The breath-taking views of forested islands left untouched for decades and the sight of sea lions diving (loudly) from lichen-covered rocks just metres from your boat put the destination in a league of its own. And always on the back of my mind when I visit such raw, remote locations is this thought: "Will I leave a footprint? How can I ensure this beautiful wilderness won't be affected by my visit? God forbid I should accidentally leave any pollution in my wake." It's with certainty that I tell you it is indeed possible to visit such natural wonders and do so in an ecologically-sound manner. British Columbia-based Outer Shores Expeditions, known for its tours to Haida Gwaii, Great Bear Rainforest, the Gulf Islands, Pacific Rim National Park and other natural wonders on the West Coast, has been awarded the gold rating from Green Tourism Canada "for their inspiring conservation and preservation initiatives that maintain the integrity of these vibrant coastal regions."

(Photo courtesy of Outer Shores Expeditions)

Green Tourism Canada, one of the world's most-respected certification programs of sustainable tourism offerings, praised Outer Shores Expeditions "for working closely with local suppliers, establishing agreements with First Nations groups, contributing to wildlife tracking databases, and collaborating with experts in the field like archaeologist Denis St. Claire. Additionally, the Outer Shores Expeditions office is located in the Victoria Quay Business Centre, a LEED platinum certified building."

(Photo courtesy of Outer Shores Expeditions)

Check out the incredible tours offered by Outer Shores Expeditions. I've got a feeling you will be inspired. I invite you to follow me on my travels on Twitter @dougoneill.