Discover Historic Nootka Sound cruising aboard the MV Uchuck III

The Nootka Sound region on the west coast of Vancouver Island is rich in scenic beauty and historic in nature. These pages will give you a glimpse into the history of the MV Uchuck III, ancestral First Nations people, early European Explorers, the local communities and more.

The Nootka Sounder is available online and onboard the MV Uchuck III. Click Here to read the Nootka Sounder to learn more about Nootka Sound; the residents, First Nations people, the wildlife, activities and adventures available in this region of Vancouver Island.

MV Uchuck III  Originally built as an American Yard Minesweeper in 1942, the MV Uchuck III has been ferrying people and supplies to remote maritime villages since she was refitted in the 1950s. Read More...

Nootkan People  The first residents of Nootka Sound were the Mowachaht and Muchalaht peoples who had a rich existence and culture based on whaling and salmon fishing. Read More...

Early Exploration  In 1774 the Spanish became the first Europeans to sight the entrance of Nootka Sound and traded with the First Nations people, sparking the west coast fur trade. Read More...

Nootka Sound Communities  Although Gold River, Tahsis, Kyuquot and Zeballos are not household names you’ll become familiar with them cruising aboard the MV Uchuck III. Read More...

Visiting Friendly Cove  A visitor’s insight as to what you will experience when visiting this historically significant destination on Vancouver Island’s Wild West Coast. Read More...

Nootka Sound Adventures  There is plenty to do, above and below the surface of the waters of Nootka Sound. Read More...

Wildlife of Nootka Sound  Keep your eyes open and your camera ready, you may see most of this wildlife while cruising aboard the MV Uchuck III. Read More...

The Art of the Load  Guests are always fascinated watching the First Mate deftly load and unload supplies from the MV Uchuck III using cargo winches. This is old school at its best. Read More...

Kayak Wet Launching  Watching kayakers getting wet launched over the side of MV Uchuck III’s deck is always a popular experience for passengers on board. Read More...

On-Board Events  Throughout the summer season Guest Speakers aboard the MV Uchuck III enroute to Friendly Cove give talks on Forestry, First Nations culture and more. Read More...

The Nootka Sounder  This annual publication is available as a pdf download. Read everything you see on these pages where and when you want. Read More...

Friends of the Uchuck  This extensive list of accommodations, adventure companies and more is a great resource for planning your trip to Gold River and Nootka Sound. Read More...

FAQS  Information on this page answers a lot of the more commonly asked questions asked by guests who are considering a cruise aboard the MV Uchuck III. Read More...