Port Hardy BC Carved Sign
Port Hardy BC Canada is the northernmost community at the end of Highway 19 on Vancouver Island. Its a small town with a population of about 4000 residents and is named after Vice Admiral Sir Thomas Masterman Hardy who was famously known for holding the dieing Lord Nelson in his arms at the Battle of Trafalgar when Nelson said his last words, “Kiss me, Hardy”. Port Hardy BC was originally a resource based industry town, but with diminishing need for these commodities Port Hardy has now taken on a new role as an adventure tourism destination.
Because Port Hardy BC is uniquely geographically situated, it makes for a hub of activities, adventure and attractions. You will find few other places in the world that can provide you with practically year round salmon and halibut fishing. The new North Coast Trail in near by Cape Scott Provincial Park is now attracting avid hikers from all over the world and now rivals its little brother the infamous West Coast Trail. Some guy you may have heard of, Jacque Cousteau, put Port Hardy BC on the scuba diving destination map stating that this place has the best cold water diving in the world, specifically Browning Wall near God's Pocket Provincial Park. There is also some great kayaking and caving opportunities awaiting your exploration, as well as a rich First Nations cultural presence.
Arguably the biggest attraction in Port Hardy BC is the Discovery Coast ferry from Port Hardy to Prince Rupert via the Inside Passage. This 16 hour cruise takes you up the majestic Inside Passage along British Columbia's rugged west coast, and in fact, this is the same route the Alaska cruise ships take. You will see many whales, eagles and maybe a glimpse of the elusive Kermode Bear (Spirit Bear) as you sail beside The Great Bear Rain Forest with the snow caped Coastal Mountain Range as your backdrop. In addition to the freshest air you will ever breath, you will sail beside remote coastal villages, picturesque lighthouses and even an eerie ghost town at Butedale on Royal Princess Island. And because this cruise is also a ferry, you can bring your car along and continue your trip from Prince Rupert.
More and more Port Hardy BC is capturing the attention of tourists, travellers and adventure seekers eager for unique and enjoyable experiences. Is your interest peaked? This article gives only a few examples of what awaits you, if you want to know more, come visit our guide to Port Hardy BC.http://www.port-
