First people鈥檚 history through stories and hands-on exploration will enhance five-day Gulf Islands National Park Reserve cruises in April, as Salish elder Florence James returns to Maple Leaf Adventures as an interpreter.
The expeditions, aboard the classic schooner Maple Leaf, explore the natural and cultural history of the islands, visiting remote and little-known places in the national park.
James is an elder from Pune鈥檒uxutth Island, near Galiano Island, who was trained from an early age as a storyteller for her people.
Mountains and beaches come alive with meaning after a day with James telling stories of the peak where people lashed their canoe in the great flood, to the cove where people gathered before paddling across Georgia Strait, known as 鈥渢he outside water鈥�.
In addition to visits with Florence, guests aboard the Maple Leaf trips will explore the dry rainforest ecosystem, wildlife colonies, and several remote beaches in the park. Gourmet food, naturalist and sailing the islands are also highlights.
Tour dates are April 8-13, April 14-19, April 20-27 and cost from $2,040 per person plus tax, all-inclusive. For information go to www.MapleLeafAdventures.com or call 250-386-7245.
