"Mothership" Cruises to Land of the First Nations

Mothership Adventures is offering an interesting twist on exploring the British Columbia coastline: visiting the land of the First Nations' people. The Columbia III will depart from Port McNeill onthe north end of Vancouver Island and sail into the wilderness region of the Broughton Archipelago.

Lillian Hunt, curator of Cultural Tourism Programs for the U'mista's Potlatch Collection, will guide guests through the legends, artwork and sites of the Kwakwaka'wakw cultures. Other guides will explain the complexities of the "Potlatch" ceremony with its masks and regalia. Guests will also have a chance to visit a "Big House" and witness chanting, drumming and traditional dance. The tour also makes stops in ancient village sites, includingn Mimkwamlis. There are also opportunities to watch First Nations people carve trees into canoes and totem poles, and gold and silver into jewelry.

The 23-passenger, 19-metre ship has a spacious dining room and six staterooms. Gourmet meals are served and the ship has a fireplace and library. The cruise takes place from July 2-6,.