Dive and Wilderness Tour Packages
We individually design our 'Pelican Water Adventure' dive packages to match the experience and interests of each diver or dive group. We can also combine our dive packages with whale watching or wilderness tours, to match the needs of a mixed group of divers and non-divers.
When booking any of our dive packages or combined dive/wildness tour packages, please remember the following:
- All divers must hold at least a beginner’s level certification. Although we will assist novice divers in enjoying a safe dive experience, we do not train divers directly. We will arrange training and certification at your request, prior to your dive. If you are not certified, we will not allow you to dive.
- Safety comes first so dive sites and times may be adjusted to allow for tides, weather conditions and skill/experience of the individual divers.
- We do not provide meals. You may either bring ready-to-eat food or you are welcome to prepare your food using our on-board galley.
- All divers and participants must complete a pre-trip waiver.
- All participants agree to abide by the decisions of the tour operator regarding safety, local diving conditions, and recommended dive limits.
We offer two basic types of charters, day charters and overnight charters. All charters include an orientation aboard the Rusty Pelican for all guests and an orientation on the dive skill. Each diver must present proof of certifcation before dive tanks will be filled.
The Rusty Pelican Day Charter
Our day charters usually last from 8 to 10 hours, depending on boating conditions and the desires of the group. During a day charter, we anticipate completing at least three different dives - and can sometimes complete four, depending on the area, weather conditions, and experience of the group.
We usually leave the dock in either Port Hardy or Nanaimo at 7 a.m. and return between 3 and 5 p.m.
Recreational dives can include up to four divers at a cost of $800 per day. An additional three people can be added to the group for $125 per person. An eighth diver is free.
Nanaimo winter diving around the artificial reefs includes up to four people at a cost of $850 per day. Each additional person – up to 7 people – is $125 per person. An eighth diver is free.
Dives in the Port Hardy area are $950 per day for up to four people. Each additional person – up to 7 people – is $125 per person. An eighth diver is free.
The Rusty Pelican Overnight or multi-day Charter
Our overnight charters include 2 - 6 days of diving and spending the night either aboard The Rusty Pelican – which can sleep up to six people – or in a local hotel. Participants electing to say in a hotel must book their own accommodation.
A maximum of six people can be accommodated overnight on the boat. Participants should be prepared to cook their meals on-board or bring ready-to-eat food.
- Overnight charters in Nanaimo are $800 per day for three people plus $150 per person per night for up to two additional people. A sixth person is free.
- Overnight charters in Port Hardy are $950 per day for three people plus $150 per person per night for up to two additional people. A sixth person is free.
Prices for other areas vary, depending on numbers involved and itinerary. We also offer a 10% discount for bookings of three or more nights. Please contact us for a quote.
Additional Options
To further enhance your 'Pelican Water Adventure' west coast dive, you can select any of the following experiences:
- Whale watching and/or wilderness/wildlife viewing;
- Combining your charter with dive training, so you can train, become certified, and go on a dive charter within 5 - 6 days;
- A visit to Hot Springs Cove; and/or
- Depending on tides, weather and diving conditions, arranging dives specifically for Nanaimo’s artificial reefs, the Browning Wall, Barclay Sound, Dodd Narrows or any of the region’s renowned dive sites.
Create and book your west coast experience now.
