Maple Leaf Adventures is a pioneering ecotourism company based in British Columbia, offering small-ship expedition cruises along the coasts of British Columbia and Southeast Alaska. They are recognized for their commitment to regenerative travel, which emphasizes minimizing environmental impact and contributing positively to the ecosystems and communities they engage with.
Regenerative Travel Approach:
- Environmental Sustainability: Maple Leaf Adventures integrates eco-tourism principles into their operations, providing high-quality adventures that offer special access to the wildlife, landscapes, culture, and nature of the coast. Their careful and thoughtful approach has earned them a reputation as a model for conservation travel.
- Conservation Efforts: The company allocates significant resources to support and build a conservation-based economy on the coast. They have been involved in industry-saving marine debris expeditions and advocate for protecting ecosystems and wildlife.
- Community Engagement: Maple Leaf Adventures collaborates closely with Indigenous communities, integrating cultural experiences into their expeditions. They work with local guides, including leaders of Indigenous communities and scientists, to share knowledge and foster a deeper appreciation for the nature and culture of the coast.
- Use of Classic Vessels: Their fleet includes heritage ships like the 1904 schooner Maple Leaf and the 1912 tugboat Swell, which have been restored and repurposed for eco-tourism. These vessels allow access to remote areas while maintaining a small environmental footprint.
By focusing on regenerative travel, Maple Leaf Adventures aims to leave the world better than they found it, ensuring their operations have a symbiotic relationship with coastal ecosystems and cultures. Their vision is to drive a high-quality nature-based tourism industry that integrates with both Indigenous and Western cultures along the coast.
