Edible Vancouver Island September/October 2023

A West Coast oyster experience

WORDS + PHOTOS EMILY LYCOPOLUS

A stiff, cool breeze met a blue, cloudless sky as we walked down the dock to meet our trusty ship, Calm Seas. It was a beautiful day in Campbell River. As much as I love this Island and call it home, I haven't explored much around the Northern Island and surrounding archipelago. To embark on an adventure to see wildlife and experience the Discovery Islands while learning about local aquaculture and trying local fare, was about the best local adventure I could think up. Captain Zach Pennock of Campbell River Eco Tours met us on the dock. Along with the other participants, we made seven on board, a great size for the boat and for conversation. Calm Seas had an

indoor cabin that comfortably seated us, and outside deck space that seated five across the stern. The boat was roomy and the perfect home for our day on the water. First things first, I loved that he handed the kids a scavenger hunt! As soon as we were out of the marina, it was go time–a 45-minute ride to Read Island. Captain Zach moved to Vancouver Island as an arborist, but once here he was called to a life on the ocean. Wanting to learn more about the area, he literally dove into the history and culture to understand the region. While we cruised, he shared many details of the islands, trees, coastal mountains and the area we were seeing.

32 SEP/OCT 2023 EDIBLE VANCOUVER ISLAND