Passage Aboard the MV Uchuck III

Part of the allure of putting together this year’s trip was the unusual way in which we can get ourselves and boats to the outer coast. In addition to catching the BC Ferry Service over to Vancouver Island, we’ll be catching transport on the MV Uchuck III from Gold River. The upside is this gives us extra time on the outside.

The MV Uchuck-III, a 136' converted mine sweeper now hauling freight. Photo courtesy of MV Uchuck-III

A 136 foot freighter, the Uchuck III derives her name from the West Coast native Nootkan language “Healing Waters” and has been serving the area for over 50 years. Built originally in Oregon as an American Mine Sweeper in 1942, the MV Uchuck III has been totally refitted to accommodate 100 passengers and up to 100 tons of freight (cargo).

What makes all of this a bit out of the ordinary is the launch method the Uchuck III uses to disembark the kayaks. Using a small rigid platform attached to a sling, the crew hoists your loaded kayak, with you in the cockpit, up and over the side. They’ll gladly stop to launch (and later recover) you anywhere along their route, so you can easily custom tailor your trip.

Confirmation for passage aboard the Uchuck III for the outer coast of West Vancouver Island

I have to admit the pulse started racing as I looked over my confirmation for later this summer. Should be a blast.