FAQs

How many people will be on my tour?

GERMAN VERSION – We believe that small, intimate groups create better experiences. You can expect group sizes of 4 to 10 people.

What should I pack?

Your packing list will depend on the experience that you select. See the specific packing lists on the Experiences page.

What is your cancellation policy?

Our goal with cancellations is to be as fair and understanding as possible. Please understand that some of our trip costs are incurred well in advance of trip departures and other travellers may have been turned away because the trip is full.

Refunds will be issued according to the following schedule:

Early Cancellation

If a guest cancels 31 or more days before the start of the tour, we will retain the deposit if we have knowingly turned away other customers for that trip and we are unable to fill that seat. If we are able to fill the seat, your deposit will be refunded less a $100 administration fee per person.

Late Cancellation

Full payment for your trip is due 30 days before your trip begins. If a guest cancels less than 31 days before the start of the tour, no refund will be issued if we are unable to fill that seat. If we are able to fill the seat, your payment will be refunded less a $200 administration fee per person.

VIE Cancellation

In the event that Vancouver Island Expeditions has to cancel a trip for any reason, we will do so with as much advance notice as possible and a full refund will be provided.

Can I bring my children?

Yes, children are allowed on tours; however, some tours are not appropriate for all age groups. Please contact us for further information about booking a VIE tour with your children.

What is the best time to travel to Vancouver Island?

Vancouver Island is a temperate, year-round destination and many people enjoy outdoor activities in all seasons. We can suggest the best time to travel here, based on your specific interests and desired activities.

What is typical weather for Vancouver Island?

The weather of Vancouver Island is typically mild, which allows for a variety of year-round activities. The warmest and driest months are the summer months (June, July, August and September) reaching temperatures in the mid-20s°C during the day and low temperatures of about 10°C overnight. Spring (March, April and May) has a temperature range of 11 to 15°C. The fall season (October to November) on the Island typically brings average high temperatures of 12°C, but these can vary by location. The winter months (late November to February) tend to be the wettest months, along with cooler temperatures and snow at higher elevations.

Where is VIE located?

We are located in the city of Nanaimo, which is on the east coast of central Vancouver Island. The city is very close to all transportation routes and a full selection of attractions and activities. Nanaimo is well serviced by 2 ferry terminals, an international airport and a seaplane terminal.

Will I need to bring my own food?

All meals and snacks will be included in the cost of the tour, unless otherwise stated.

Where do the tours start / end?

All VIE tours start and end in downtown Nanaimo, unless otherwise stated. In many cases, we are able to pick you up at alternate locations, so please contact us if you would like to be picked up by us. Specific locations will depend on the tour that you book with us.

What accommodation options are offered on the tours?

In order to cater to a wider range of travellers’ needs, we have two levels of accommodation options in our packages: basic and comfort. Both accommodation options offer reputable, clean and well-maintained facilities. VIE will ensure guests are picked up and dropped off at their hotel each morning and evening.

The basic accommodation option offers private rooms, including all basic amenities and linens in a boutique guesthouse or deluxe yurt. In some situations, shared bathrooms and showers are a possibility. Comfort room options include four-star service with ensuite bathrooms and, in some cases, guest rooms.

Pricing is based on double occupancy (two people in one room).  Independent travellers should request special pricing if they do not intend to share a room.

How do I get to Vancouver Island?

Vancouver Island is very accessible any time of year. Once you arrive, it is also well serviced by transportation links. BC Ferries offers daily service to Vancouver Island from the mainland. A one-way trip will take between 1 hour and 45 minutes to two hours, depending on your departure and arrival terminal. Another option is to take a quick 25-minute floatplane with Harbour Air. The Island is also well serviced by international and regional airports.

Please let us know if you have any questions about transportation to and from the Island. We would be happy to suggest the best way to get here!

I have more questions. Who can I contact?

You can find all of our contact details on the Contact page. Please do not hesitate to contact us for any reason.