Had a blast with my parents on the (now) Frances Barkley from Port Alberni. My dad had wanted to do the day-trip and I agreed and was happily surprised at how fun it was. See first hand how the coastal people live as you deliver their groceries, liquor, propane etc. from a real working vessel. The food onboard was great,... More

This is a great trip, although the ship is now the Frances Barclay as the the Lady Rose has been retired. The trip down the Alberni Inlet is beautiful. The ship stops along to way to deliver people and supplies to homes that can only be reached by water. It amazed me how many people lived "off the grid" along... More

We spent a very rainy day cruising to Bamfield and back at the $25 rate for off season. It goes up to 50 in March but I understand $15 becomes a donation to cancer research. The pace is leisurely and the scenery spectacular even on a rainy day but take a squeegee or cloth to keep the windows clear. It... More

Thsi was alot of fun but be prepared for a long day. The boat leaves Port Alberni at 8 AM and returns at 5 ish. You travel on the boat that brings supplies and people to Banfield. The boat is basic but all amenities are clean and available. There's a good food service on board which is good value for... More

What a wonderful experience, it is off season and there was a real good deal so with a couple of friends off we went. The crew were professional and a joy to sail/cruise with. The water was very calm which made the passing of time so enjoyable. We played cards and ate in their galley wondered about on the ship... More

While visiting in Courtney, we took advantage of the time to spend a day on the Frances Barkley, all the way to Bamfield. The ship was leaving at 8;00am and we were ready and waiting in the rain. There were 22 of us on board, aside from staff, and it was an amazing trip. The scenery was breathtaking, with rain... More

Can't say enough about this little day cruise down the Alberni Inlet. Scenery is unmached the world over. Bring your binoculars and your camera.

The summer weather was warm and sunny. We saw whales, dolphins and lots of bears. The staff are helpful and interested in their passengers.

My boyfriend and I really had a great time. Sandy was very helpful, informative and a bonus of having a camera man which is very important to us.