Bluewater Adventures’ Original Vessel
The Ship That Started It All
Launched in 1983, Island Roamer started Bluewater Adventures coastal sailing trips. Setting sail into the much less travelled reaches of the British Columbia north coast, Island Roamer is a pioneer of small-ship eco-tourism.
Carrying only 12 guests, Island Roamer’s size allows access to wilderness and wildlife most can only dream about. Experience nature one on one.
Island Roamer Features
Thoughtfully designed for both guest comfort and adventure capability, Island Roamer makes the perfect home base for your coastal adventure.
Double Occupancy Cabins
There are 6 guest cabins onboard – 4 with two single bunks, 2 with doubles, ample storage, and electrical outlets. There are 3 shared bathrooms with hot showers.
Protected On Deck Seating
Enjoy our enclosed, above deck wheelhouse with 360 degree views. Keep an eye out for whales or watch the Captain navigate, regardless of the weather.
Cozy Below Deck Library & Beautiful Teak Finishing
Put your feet up and enjoy the selection of over 100 books and resource guides that entertain and help educate guests on the natural and cultural history of the coast.
Stable Sea Kayaks
Island Roamer carries a fleet of stable sea kayaks – 3 singles and 2 doubles – providing choice for the novice and expert kayaker alike.
Two Zodiacs
We tow two 18’ expedition boats for immediate access ashore or for up close, respectful wildlife viewing.
Go Where Larger Vessels Cannot
The shallow draft and nimble size of Island Roamer allows entrance to narrow channels and tiny bays.
Life Onboard
Days spent onboard one of our vessels is a once in a lifetime experience. Learn what to expect in your day to day as a Bluewater guest.
What to ExpectTravel Onboard Island Roamer
Browse Our Current Island Roamer Expedition Dates
Island Roamer sails the coast from May to mid-October, running trips in almost every area we visit – from estuaries full of sedge and bears in the spring, to the salmon-filled rivers of Great Bear Rainforest in the fall.
Explore Trips on Island Roamer
Safety at Heart
Highly Trained Crew & Government Inspected Vessels
The areas we explore are remote and rugged and thus, our crew and vessels are equipped & prepared for the unexpected – whether it be weather, wildlife, or responding to an emergency.
Island Roamer is a Transport Canada certified passenger vessel, inspected annually, including a thorough check of all safety systems onboard. Captains hold a Transport Canada license for the size of vessel and area of operation, while all crew take part in regular vessel safety training, and hold current role specific certifications.
Upon arrival to the boat, crew will conduct a thorough safety briefing including muster points and steps to follow in the event of an emergency. Though we typically travel out of cell phone range, our vessels are equipped with marine radio to contact Coast Guard (and other vessels), and a satellite system to connect with the Bluewater office or emergency support.
We pride ourselves on our commitment to sustainability, including our dedication to ‘slow travel.’ We see more wildlife going slowly, as the Captain maintains a speed that helps reduce our emissions, reduce our underwater noise and maximize fuel usage. Learn more about Bluewater’s sustainability efforts on our Sustainable Travel & Ecotourism Etiquette page
Guests can expect to load into the zodiacs to take part in shore excursions or boat-based wildlife viewing expeditions at least once a day. Boarding a zodiac on Island Roamer starts with a secure three step ladder down to the boarding platform at the stern – always assisted by crew. Guests then step onto the front of the zodiac before stepping down to take a seat in the boat. Crew are always there to assist with loading and unloading, onboard and ashore.
Powered by twin Cummins 200hp diesel engines, Island Roamer normally travels at 7-8 knots under power – slow enough to notice the blow of a whale. During the day, electricity is provided by a 12kw Onan generator. Designed for extended remote travel, many of the ship’s systems have built-in redundancy.
Island Roamer is a two-masted ketch with 1750 sq ft of working sail and a 1500 sq ft spinnaker. Designed to be sailed by a small crew, guests are welcome to get involved but not expected. One of life’s joys is silently slicing through the water under wind power alone.
Bluewater puts thought into every detail of the guest experience onboard our vessels. On Island Roamer, we want guests to feel as though they can step onboard with their belongings and immediately feel at home.
Each cabin comes with an opening porthole, pillows, bed sheets, and a cozy duvet. Washrooms carry organic shampoo, conditioner, and soap. Marine binoculars are available in the wheelhouse, and ponchos are handed out on extra rainy excursion days. To learn more about what’s onboard, explore our What to Bring page.