7 Steps to Starting a Tour Bus Company in BC

by Vanessa Day | Feb 2, 2025 | Brewery Tours, Corporate Tours, Cowichan Valley, Pub Shuttle, Transportation, Wine Tours

7 Steps to Starting a Tour Bus Company in BC

Driving around, showing people the sights or touring a vineyard, what a great way to make a living! After all, you know the Cowichan Valley like the back of your hand. Sound like fun? It is, but it takes a lot more than a winning smile, good driving skills, and an easy ability to get along with people.

Starting a tour bus company in British Columbia can be a rewarding entrepreneurial venture given the province’s unique geography, growing population, and tourism industry. The bus industry plays a critical role in connecting communities, providing affordable transportation, and catering to tourists exploring the natural beauty of the region.

However, the process of starting such a business is highly regulated, and it requires a comprehensive understanding of legal requirements, market dynamics, financial planning, and operational logistics. Let’s take a look at what’s involved!

1. Conduct Market Research

The first step in starting a tour bus company is to understand the market landscape. British Columbia is a province with diverse transportation needs, including urban commuter services, rural transport, long-distance travel, and seasonal tourism routes. Before investing in the business, you should analyze the demand for tour bus services in your target areas. Let’s look at the Cowichan Valley in particular:

- - - Target Demographics: Who are your potential customers? These could be local commuters, tourists, students, or elderly passengers who need reliable and affordable transportation. Do you want to take people on wine tours or pub crawls? Provide shuttle service to the airport? Take people to medical appointments? Tour the Gulf Islands? Bachelor/ette parties?
    - Existing Competition: Identify other tour bus operators in the area and assess their service offerings. Determine if there are gaps in the market that your business could fill.
    - Tourism Routes: British Columbia attracts millions of tourists each year, and there is a high demand for scenic bus tours to places like the Cowichan Valley, Victoria, and even farther up Island.
    - Regulatory Environment: Familiarize yourself with provincial regulations and licensing requirements, as these can vary based on the region and type of service you intend to provide.

2. Create a Business Plan

A well-thought-out business plan is essential for the success of any new business. It should detail the company’s mission, objectives, operational structure, financial projections, and marketing strategy, and include:

- - - Executive Summary: A brief overview of your company, including the services you will offer, your target market, and what makes your service unique.
    - Services Offered: The specific bus services your company will provide. Will you focus on city commuting, intercity travel, tour services, or charter services? Consider the different routes, frequencies, and pricing models.
    - Financial Plan: The startup costs, such as purchasing buses, acquiring necessary licenses, and hiring drivers. Include projected revenue, operating costs, and expected profit margins. Consider the financial viability of your business model and funding options.
    - Marketing Strategy: How you will promote your bus services. Will you rely on online marketing, partnerships with local businesses, or advertising through tourism agencies? Offer incentives, such as discounts or loyalty programs, to attract passengers.

3. Licensing and Legal Requirements

Operating in British Columbia requires compliance with various regulations and licensing requirements for limo, shuttle bus or other passenger directed vehicles (PDV):

- - - Passenger Transportation License: In BC, bus operators must obtain a Passenger Transportation License (PTL) with special authorization to operate a limo or shuttle service from the Passenger Transportation Board (PTB). This license is required for all commercial passenger transport services. The application process involves proving that you meet the necessary safety and financial standards and demonstrating that your services will meet the demand in your area.
    - Operating Authority: You will need to obtain operating authority from the PTB. You must submit a business plan and comply with fare regulations. If you’re providing charter or tour services, the licensing requirements may vary based on your specific services.
    - Insurance and Safety Regulations: All buses must be insured, and safety standards must be met, including vehicle inspections and maintenance. The insurance coverage will include general liability, passenger liability, and vehicle damage coverage. You’ll also need to comply with provincial transportation regulations related to vehicle safety, such as ensuring that drivers meet licensing and health standards. The National Safety Code Program regulates vehicles operating under the Passenger Transportation Act and commercial vehicles that seat 10 or more passengers plus the driver.
    - Driver Qualifications: Bus drivers must hold a Class 2 commercial driver’s license (or higher, depending on the type of bus and the routes). Limo or bus drivers with vehicles with a seating capacity of 25 people must be at least 19 years old and hold a Class 4 commercial driver’s license. Drivers should have a clean driving record, as well as training in passenger safety protocols and emergency response. Certain medical conditions may preclude you from becoming a commercial driver. ICBC can help with ensuring compliance with all the applicable laws and regulations.

4. Fleet Management and Equipment

Selecting the right buses for your company is a critical decision. The type and size of the buses you choose will depend on the services you plan to offer, the routes you will operate, and your budget. Here are some factors to consider:

- - - Type of Buses: You can opt for standard commuter buses, luxury coaches, or smaller minibuses, depending on your target market. If you’re offering tour services, consider larger buses that offer more comfort and amenities such as Wi-Fi, air conditioning, and reclining seats.
    - Maintenance and Repairs: Regular maintenance is crucial to ensure the safety of your passengers and avoid costly repairs. You should either hire an in-house mechanic or establish a relationship with a local service provider. Maintenance costs will be a significant part of your operating expenses.
    - Fuel Efficiency and Environmental Considerations: Given the rising concern about environmental sustainability, it’s worth considering eco-friendly vehicles. Hybrid or electric buses are becoming more popular in the transportation industry as they reduce emissions and fuel costs.
    - Fleet Financing: Purchasing buses is a substantial capital investment. You may need to explore financing options, including loans, leasing, or seeking investors to fund the acquisition of buses.

5. Hiring and Training Employees

If you have plans to expand beyond a one-person operation, you’ll need help. Key hires will include:

- - - Bus Drivers: Hiring qualified, experienced, and customer-oriented drivers is crucial for your company’s reputation. Drivers should undergo training on safety protocols, passenger service, and local traffic laws.
    - Customer Service and Administrative Staff: You will need office staff to handle bookings, inquiries, and ticket sales. If you offer online booking, a tech team will be essential to maintain your website and mobile app.
    - Maintenance Team: A reliable maintenance team ensures the vehicles are operating safely and efficiently. Hiring experienced mechanics or partnering with a third-party service provider can help ensure the longevity of your fleet.

6. Marketing and Growing Your Brand

Effective marketing strategies are crucial for attracting passengers and ensuring the long-term success of your bus company. Some things to think about include:

- - - Partnerships with Local Businesses: Forge relationships with hotels, tourist attractions, and local events to offer joint promotions or special packages.
    - Online Presence: Develop a user-friendly website where customers can check schedules, book tickets, and get updates on routes. Social media marketing is also vital to reach a wider audience and engage with potential customers.
    - Customer Loyalty Programs: Offering discounts, rewards for frequent riders, or group deals can help retain customers and encourage word-of-mouth referrals.

7. Ensuring Sustainability and Growth

Finally, ensure that your business is adaptable and can grow over time. Stay informed about new transportation trends, technological advancements, and shifts in customer preferences. Consider expanding your fleet, adding new routes, or diversifying your services based on customer feedback and market demand.

Spotlight on Nanaimo

by Vanessa Day | Mar 14, 2024 | Corporate Tours, Cowichan Valley, Wine Tours

Spotlight on Nanaimo

Just north of the Cowichan Valley and occupying a prime position on the shores of the Salish Sea along the eastern coast of Vancouver Island, Nanaimo stands as a testament to the beauty and charm of the Island’s coastal communities. With its breathtaking natural landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and vibrant community spirit, Nanaimo offers a diverse array of experiences for residents and visitors alike. From its picturesque waterfront to its historic landmarks, Nanaimo captivates the imagination and invites exploration.

Nanaimo is surrounded by lush forests, rugged mountains, and pristine waters. The city provides a wealth of recreational opportunities, from kayaking and sailing to hiking and wildlife watching. Mount Benson rises 1,006 meters (3,300 feet) over the region providing hiking opportunities through its 292 hectares of forest land. Outdoor enthusiasts are drawn to destinations like Newcastle Island Marine Provincial Park, Protection Island, and Neck Point Park, where they can immerse themselves in the region’s natural splendor.

Nanaimo’s History

Far beyond its scenic landscapes, the city boasts a rich history that dates back thousands of years. Indigenous peoples such as the Snuneymuxw First Nation, a tribe of the Coast Salish people, have inhabited the area for millennia. These deep roots are celebrated through cultural events, traditional practices, and the preservation of archaeological sites, ensuring that Nanaimo’s Indigenous heritage remains an integral part of its identity.

European exploration and settlement began in the late 18th century when British and Spanish explorers arrived on Vancouver Island’s shores. Originally founded as Colvilletown around a Hudson’s Bay Company trading post, it was named after Andrew Colvile, a Scot who served as governor of the Hudson’s Bay Company from 1852 to 1856. In 1860 the settlement was renamed Sne-ny-mo from an Indigenous word meaning “a big, strong tribe”.

Coal Mining in Nanaimo

The city’s development accelerated with the discovery of nearby coal deposits in 1849 by local Indigenous people. This coal formed the first known large deposits on the west coast of North America. Since the type of coal found here was ideal for steam production, mining provided steady employment and settlers flocked to the area. The first ship to be loaded with coal was the Cadboro in September 1852.

The establishment of mining operations lead to the growth of a thriving community. Coal was mined in and around Nanaimo from 1852 through to the 1950s. During this time, over 50 million tons of coal was extracted from the mines.

Today, remnants of Nanaimo’s coal mining heritage can still be seen throughout the city, from the iconic Bastion, a former Hudson’s Bay Company outpost, to the Coal Tyee Trail, which winds its way through the forested hillsides once dotted with mineshafts and miner’s cottages. These historical sites serve as poignant reminders of Nanaimo’s industrial past and the resilience of its early settlers.

Nanaimo is Hub City

Nanaimo is often referred to as “Harbour City” but it is also known as the “Hub City” as its streets fan out from the harbour resembling the spokes of a wheel.

The city boasts a vibrant cultural scene, including art galleries, theaters, and festivals that showcase local talent and creativity. The Port Theatre, with its striking architecture and diverse programming, serves as a focal point for performing arts in the region, while the Nanaimo Museum offers insight into the city’s past through engaging exhibits and interactive displays.

Culinary enthusiasts will also find much to savour in Nanaimo, with a burgeoning food scene that highlights fresh, locally sourced ingredients and a wealth of culinary influences. From cozy cafes serving up artisanal coffee and baked goods to waterfront restaurants specializing in seafood delicacies, Nanaimo’s dining options cater to every palate and preference. Visitors can indulge in Nanaimo’s eponymous treat, the Nanaimo bar, a decadent dessert consisting of layers of chocolate, custard, and coconut, which has become a beloved Canadian confection.

Gateway to Wine Country

Nanaimo serves as the perfect gateway to explore the burgeoning wine region of the Cowichan Valley, known as “The Napa of the North,” which is just a short drive south along the scenic Island Highway.

Wine Tasting Tours offer visitors departing from Nanaimo a leisurely, scenic journey through the Cowichan Valley, stopping at charming wineries and vineyards along the way. Here, they can indulge in tastings of award-winning wines, including varietals such as Pinot Noir, Chardonnay, and Ortega, all cultivated in the valley’s unique microclimate.

Nanaimo Bathtub Races

Yup! You read that right! Ever since the first race in 1967, Nanaimo has been home and host to the Great International World Championship Bathtub Race and Nanaimo Marine Festival. The 58 km race is taken seriously, in a fun way, by bathtub enthusiasts! There is an entire weekend of fun and activities planned each year for all comers.

Bathtubs aside, Nanaimo prides itself on being a gateway to Vancouver Island. It’s an ideal base for exploring the surrounding region. Whether embarking on a day trip to the nearby Gulf Islands, venturing into the rugged landscapes of Strathcona Provincial Park, or taking a scenic drive along the Pacific Marine Circle Route, adventurers will find no shortage of excursions to embark on from Nanaimo’s doorstep.

Whether you are an adrenaline junkie into ziplining or bungy jumping, or just looking to enjoy a day of sipping on wine and enjoying tasty treats, there is truly something here for everyone.

Off-Site Corporate Team Building: Top 10

by Vanessa Day | Oct 3, 2023 | Corporate Tours, Cowichan Valley, Transportation

Off-Site Corporate Team Building: Top 10

Everyone knows a positive work environment is directly linked to higher employee morale and engagement, and increased engagement translates to improved job satisfaction and a decrease in turnover rates.

Corporate team building has long been a critical strategy to foster collaboration, enhance communication, and improve overall productivity. Team building activities inject an element of fun and excitement into the workplace, helping employees bond over shared experiences.

However, who doesn’t want a day out of the office occasionally? Off-site activities have gained considerable popularity for their ability to increase camaraderie, boost morale, and improve teamwork. Stepping away from the office and engaging in a leisurely activity like a Cowichan Valley wine tasting or a bowling tournament can reduce stress and contribute to improved employee well-being. A more relaxed team is often a more productive one.

What about Employees who Work from Home?

In our post-CoVid world, the new normal has seen a sharp increase in the numbers of employees who work from home. The rise of remote work turned traditional team building methods upside down, with employers looking to get their employees out of the house to spend more time engaging with their co-workers in person. The more employees connect with each other and feel they belong to a greater whole, the happier they are and the better their engagement and productivity.

Corporate team building activities are diverse and can be tailored to suit the unique needs and culture of your particular organization. You design your agenda with your employees in mind and let us take care of the transportation! We’ll get you where you want to go in comfort and style.

Here are some ideas to get you going: our Top Ten Team Building Activities to promote collaboration, communication, and camaraderie among your employees:

1. Hiking or Nature Walks

Organize a group hike or nature walk to encourage bonding and conversation while enjoying the trails or mountains of the beautiful Cowichan Valley.

2. Outdoor Sports Tournament

Want to get a little more physical? Host a friendly competition of soccer, volleyball, or tug-of-war to promote teamwork and healthy competition. The Kerry Park Recreation Centre is the Cowichan Valley’s first stop.

3. Team Challenge Course

Design and navigate an obstacle course as a team to overcome physical and mental challenges. You’ve seen “Survivor”, right?

4. Problem-Solving Activities

Want to have fun while being a little more in-your-head? Participate in an escape room game that requires collaboration, critical thinking, and puzzle-solving to “escape” within a time limit. Create a treasure or scavenger hunt with clues and riddles that teams must solve together to find hidden treasures. For the foodies in the crew, organize a mystery dinner event where teams work together to solve a fictional mystery while enjoying a meal.

5. Creative Workshops

Take a cooking or art class together, letting teams create collaboratively.

6. Community Service

Give back! Dedicate a day to a local charity or community project or organize a clean up of a local park or beach.

7. Off-Site Retreats

Plan a retreat in one of the Cowichan Valley’s many scenic locations that combines team building activities with relaxation and bonding time.

8. Storytelling and Icebreakers

Have team members share personal stories or experiences to deepen connections and understanding. Two Truths and a Lie is a classic ice breaker game where team members share two truths and one lie, and their co-workers have to identify which is the lie, encouraging better understanding of, and communication with, one another. This is a fun activity that can start right on the bus!

9. Team Trivia

Host team trivia competitions to encourage friendly competition and enhance general knowledge about your company, your town, or just the world in general.

10. Wine Tours

Casual and social, wine tours or pub crawls can help break down hierarchical barriers. Employees and leaders can interact in a more relaxed environment, fostering a sense of equality and approachability.

Remember, the key to successful team building is to align the activities with your organization’s goals, culture, and the specific outcomes you want to achieve. Corporate team building is not just a trend; it’s a strategic investment in your organization’s success. Whether you’re aiming to improve communication, boost morale, or foster innovation, thoughtful planning and a variety of activities can create a positive ripple effect throughout the entire organization.

As the business landscape continues to evolve, the fundamental goal of team building remains the same: to build cohesive, high-performing teams that will drive your organization’s growth and prosperity.

Spotlight on Cowichan Bay

by Vanessa Day | Jun 11, 2023 | Corporate Tours, Cowichan Valley, Transportation, Wine Tours

Spotlight on Cowichan Bay

A picturesque little seaside village on the east coast of Vancouver Island, Cowichan Bay is clustered around the ocean in the Cowichan Valley, approximately halfway between the cities of Victoria and Nanaimo. Looking across the Bay, you can see the beautiful scenery of the area dominated by Mount Tzouhalem.

Cowichan Bay draws its name from a word in the Hul’q’umi’num language (“Quw’utsun”) which means “to warm one’s back in the sun”. The name came from a large rock formation on the side of Mount Tzouhalem said to resemble a frog basking in the sun.

Today, the village is affectionately known to its 2,800 residents and Valley locals as “Cow Bay”.

A Brief History

Cowichan Bay has a rich history dating back many thousands of years, and was originally home to Cowichan First Nations tribes including the Knepisen, Comiekan, Clem Clemluts and Kipalus totalling somewhere between 4,000 and 5,000 members. These native peoples sustained themselves by harvesting salmon and shellfish found in the area. A rare soapstone bowl was discovered in Cowichan Bay in the late 1800s. Now part of the British Museum’s collection, the bowl is believed to come from the Marpole Culture (400 BCE-400 AD) and is one of only about 50 ever found.

Originally located at the flats at the top of Cowichan Bay, the village was the first settlement north of Victoria, starting in the 1850s as a Hudson’s Bay Company fort.

The first Europeans arrived in 1862 on the HMS Hecate. They settled Cowichan Bay to farm and trap, to log the rich forest land, and to fish for salmon and herring. Fish harvested from Cowichan Bay were so abundant that they were shipped all over the world.

By 1900 Cowichan Bay was well established as the salmon capital of the world, offering fishing and sailing. For landlubbers, Cow Bay is home to the second oldest grass tennis courts in the world (after Wimbledon) and the oldest in Canada!

Famous Residents

James Dunsmuir – Former Premier and Lieutenant-Governor of British Columbia, James Dunsmuir was part of the famous coal mining family. After his retirement in 1909, he moved into the baronial mansion he built called Hatley Castle. He enjoyed hunting and fishing and had a fishing lodge in Cowichan Bay where he passed away in 1920.

Robert William Service – Known as the “Bard of the Yukon”, Robert Service was a poet and writer of the Yukon Gold Rush. He worked as a labourer on several farms in Cowichan Bay between 1896 and 1903.

Arthur Vickers – A renowned First Nations artist and story teller, Arthur Vickers creates highly sought after and internationally collected art inspired by his heritage and the natural beauty of the seaside communities he loves. The Arthur Vickers Gallery can be found on Cowichan Bay Road.

Cowichan Bay Today

Cowichan Bay is still a flourishing fishing community, so you can watch the boats come in to harbour bringing in their daily catch. The village also has a thriving arts and crafts scene, with numerous galleries, studios, and shops showcasing the work of local artists and artisans. Everything from handmade pottery and jewelry to one-of-a-kind paintings and sculptures are there to be discovered.

Take a stroll along the boardwalk, stop for a coffee or a meal, and soak up the atmosphere of this lovely seaside village. Feeling more adventurous? There’s whale watching and kayak rentals to get you out on the Bay.

The Cowichan Bay Maritime Centre displays a collection of historic boats and exhibits showcasing the traditions of the local fishermen. You can take a guided tour and watch demonstrations of traditional boat-building techniques.

Cowichan Bay is also home to a number of parks and nature reserves. Hecate Park is as a popular picnic and beach area for locals. The park has a boat launch for day fishing or cruising the Bay.

Just a short drive from the village is the Cowichan River Provincial Park, which offers hiking trails, picnic areas, and swimming spots along the river. In the park, the Cowichan River Footpath winds 20 km through dense Douglas Fir and Western Hemlock Forest following the river to Skutz Falls.

Seasonal Highlights

Summer is festival season in Cow Bay! The 35th Annual Wooden Boat Festival in July features wooden boats on display, boat races, local music, kid’s fishing derby, and a clam chowder contest.

August brings us the Cowichan Valley Wine Festival, featuring tastings and tours of the region’s best wineries, including Cow Bay’s Rocky Creek Winery, and the Cowichan Bay Regatta which is the second largest regatta on Canada’s West Coast.

Fall brings the salmon back on their way to their spawning grounds in the Cowichan and Koksilah Rivers and the sea lions are not far behind! Come into Cowichan Bay and see them haul themselves out onto the floating breakwater near the Government Dock. It’s quite a spectacle! Bald eagles, seals, and heron are frequent visitors to the Bay.

Whether you’re a local or a tourist, Cowichan Bay is a must-visit destination in the Cowichan Valley.