Alert Bay, Cormorant Island

Alert Bay 8/8/2019


Alert Bay is located on Cormorant Island, located just off the north east coast of Vancouver Island, a short distance from Port McNeill.  This small island is just 4.9 kilometers long and 0.8 kilometers wide at its narrowest point. The village has a population of about 500 inhabitants, with the largest population being Namgis First Nation peoples who number about 450.

Alert Bay is known as “Home of the Killer Whale’’ although we were not fortunate enough to spot any on our travels.

Formerly a thriving fishing village, Alert Bay is now a vibrant blending of First Nation and pioneer culture, proud and protective of their history and heritage.

Our visit here far exceeded my expectations. The people are most welcoming and absolutely everyone spoke to us, welcomed us and wished us an enjoyable visit as we walked from the marina and through the quaint village. These First Nations people recognize the importance of tourism to their economy and have gone above and beyond to proudly introduce their culture and heritage to the outside world.

As we headed into town from the marina, we met one of the locals. He explained that he was picking up aluminum cans and plastic drink bottles to keep the community tidy and to contribute the recycling income back into the community coffers. We did not get his name but he is easily recognized by his native -woven straw or cedar hat. He provides walking tours through the village and is a great local ambassador.

The waterfront boardwalks, ferry dock and marinas bustle with life, but most vivid today is the living culture of the ‘Namgis First Nation of the Kwakwaka’wakw.

The informative Visitor Center is located in the center of the village and offers a wealth of information on the sights of the island as well as brochures for a self-guided walking tour, focusing on the historic landmarks throughout the village. Heritage buildings and old village houses on the waterfront still speak of the early pioneer days, where an 1870’s fish saltery was in operation.


Of interest to me was the sacred burial grounds, where totem poles are erected as memorials to deceased family members. 

These burial grounds are sacred and one can only view from the road.

Each pole tells a story and bears the family crest. Once erected, the poles are not maintained or repaired. 

They remain in their original state until they fall and are left to decompose and eventually return to the land. Similar to “ashes to ashes and dust to dust”. Note the old fallen pole in the background.

We treated ourselves to la delicious lunch at the Pass-n-Time Café, overlooking the waterfront. Next chore was some needed provisions from the local grocery store, then back to the boat.

A delightful visit, and we will certainly visit again next year on our way north. This time we will allow ample time to visit the village’s elegant and acclaimed U’mista Cultural Centre and see the local dance troupe perform.