Guides to Indian Country

February-March 2004

This is an article from WaveLength Magazine, available in print in North America and globally on the web.
To download a pdf copy of the magazine click here: > DOWNLOAD

by Tom Sewid

When making plans to paddle in coastal BC, many people like to know that they will be welcome when and where they go ashore. They are aware that some sites are regarded by First Nations as sacred or culturally significant—traditional harvest sites or burial grounds—where visitors are definitely not appreciated.

Most First Nations welcome all visitors to their territory, but it is in everyone’s best interests that some form of protocol is followed. Unfortunately, just trying to find out whose territory you are going to visit is very confusing at times. The maps that are available do not tell you what Band has title to what area.

The Kwakwaka’wakw (Kwakiutl) Nation, for example, is made up of 16 different Bands. Trying to find the proper spelling of each Band name, let alone their contact numbers, can be extremely difficult.

So to help you in planning your trip, you can do as your ancestors did when coming to the new world—hire or consult with an Indian guide.

Yes, even in this modern world, Indian guides still exist. They tend to call themselves water taxi or tour boat operators. Most have web sites and toll free numbers and are aware of local concerns and protocols that should be followed. These people have made their knowledge become their industry, just as their ancestors once did, and are happy to help visitors to have a safe and enjoyable time within their territories.

• Northeastern Vancouver Island/Johnstone Strait, Broughton Archipelago, Sayward Village Island Tours & Water Taxi 1-877-282-(TAXI) 8294 www.villageisland.com

• Northwestern Vancouver Island/ Kyuquot Voyager Water Taxi (250)-332-5301 www.voyagerwatertaxi.com

• Central Vancouver Island/ Campbell River Aboriginal Journeys 1-888-455-8101 www.aboriginaljourneys.com

• West Vancouver Island/ Tofino Cougar Island Water taxi 1-888-7COUGAR www.cougarisland.com

• Queen Charlotte Islands Aay Oo Guiding Services 1-877-262-9929 www.aayoo.com

• Central British Columbia/ Caribou Chilcotin Caribou Chilcotin Jetboat Adventures 1-877-748-8687 www.jetboatadventures.com.