Top 10 Reasons to Have a Boho Wedding in the Cowichan Valley

by Vanessa Day | May 30, 2025 | Cowichan Valley, Weddings

🌿 Top 10 Reasons to Have a Boho Wedding in the Cowichan Valley

If you’re dreaming of a wedding that’s equal parts soulful, stylish, and surrounded by nature, the Cowichan Valley is calling your name. Located on Vancouver Island, British Columbia, this lush, sun-drenched region is known for its slow living, organic farms, and artistic spirit—making it the perfect setting for a boho-style celebration.

A boho wedding in the Cowichan Valley isn’t just picturesque—it’s an immersive, unforgettable experience. Here are 10 compelling reasons to say “I do” in true bohemian fashion in this magical part of the world.

🌲 1. Breathtaking Natural Landscapes

Boho weddings are often held outdoors—in gardens, forests, deserts, beaches, or rustic barns. From serene lakes and mossy forests to rolling vineyards and rugged coastline, the Cowichan Valley offers a variety of stunning natural backdrops that align perfectly with boho aesthetics. You can exchange vows in a cedar grove, beside a mountain-fed river, or on a peaceful beach—nature does the decorating for you.

🎶 2. Laid-Back Food & Entertainment

Imagine a wedding menu crafted with fresh, seasonal ingredients from nearby farms, or wine and cider poured straight from the region’s renowned vineyards. Boho weddings often feature alternative food and entertainment choices. Food trucks, grazing tables, picnic-style dining, and acoustic live music are popular. Instead of a rigid timeline or formal dinner, you might host a sunset ceremony followed by dancing under the stars. The focus is on fun, connection, and authenticity rather than adhering to tradition.

Boho weddings often emphasize sustainability and authenticity, and the Cowichan Valley delivers both effortlessly.

🏡 3. Unique, Offbeat Venues

One of the hallmarks of a boho wedding is choosing a non-traditional venue. This area is full of charming venues that lend themselves to a boho vibe: rustic barns, forested campgrounds, vineyard estates, and even lavender farms. Picture saying your vows under an oak tree, on a cliff overlooking the sea, or in a secluded garden surrounded by fairy lights. Many venues here are family-owned, giving your wedding an intimate, personal touch. Spaces like Bird’s Eye Cove Farm, Keating Farm or Merridale Cidery offer cozy, one-of-a-kind backdrops with rustic elegance.

🎨 4. A Hub for Creative Vendors

Boho weddings thrive on creativity, and the Cowichan Valley has a vibrant community of florists, photographers, bakers, and event stylists who specialize in natural, handmade, and artistic details. Whether it’s a dried flower arch or a vintage rug aisle, you’ll find local vendors who understand your vision and know how to bring it to life. Prefer to do it yourself? You can focus on DIY elements, second hand or vintage décor, and natural settings that don’t require expensive decoration. From handmade macramé arches to thrifted candle holders, there’s room for cost-saving touches that don’t compromise style.

🐚 5. Island Vibes & Boho Spirit

Boho weddings are the antithesis of overly formal or rigid ceremonies. Guests typically enjoy a more casual, intimate atmosphere where connection and comfort take precedence over tradition. It’s not uncommon to see lounge areas with cushions and low tables, barefoot bridesmaids, and relaxed seating arrangements that encourage mingling and fun.

These weddings are meant to be relaxed and joyful, not rushed or overly scripted. That’s the spirit of Vancouver Island in a nutshell. Life in the Cowichan Valley moves at a slower pace, making it ideal for couples who want to soak in every moment, barefoot and blissed out, surrounded by the people they love.

🌎 6. Eco-Friendly Celebrations

If you’re conscious of your environmental footprint, the Cowichan Valley supports your values. Many venues and vendors here prioritize sustainability—think compostable dishware, wildflower bouquets, and locally sourced everything. From renting vintage tableware to using seasonal flowers, biodegradable confetti, and eco-friendly stationery, the boho ethos supports mindful choices. It’s a celebration that respects both love and the planet.

☀️ 7. A Perfect Climate

Known as the “Warmland”, the Cowichan Valley is one of Canada’s warmest regions. The Mediterranean-like climate means dry summers, making outdoor weddings more predictable and comfortable. You can plan a sunset ceremony or starry reception without worrying (too much) about the weather.

📸 8. Magical Photo Opportunities

If you’re investing in a professional photographer, the Cowichan Valley will give them plenty to work with. The dreamy light, lush landscapes, and eclectic boho elements—flower crowns, vintage details, flowing dresses—make for magical wedding albums. Think misty mornings, golden hour glow, and wild backdrops that look like a painting.

👗 9. Effortless Boho Fashion

Boho bridal fashion is beloved for its effortless elegance. Think flowing dresses, lace details, floral crowns, and natural makeup. Grooms often opt for suspenders, linen suits, or even patterned shirts instead of traditional tuxedos. The entire wedding party can dress in styles that are comfortable, beautiful, and expressive, rather than overly formal or uniform. Whether it’s vintage farmhouse or forest fairy tale, your boho style will feel like the most natural thing in the world against the gorgeous backdrop of the Cowichan Valley.

💞 10. A Wedding That Feels Like You

At its core, a boho wedding is about soul—not spectacle. It’s about intention, creativity, and connection. The Cowichan Valley, with its deep Indigenous roots, artistic community, and untouched natural beauty, fosters a kind of magic that can’t be bought. It’s the perfect place to start your life together, grounded in love, nature, and meaning.

The Cowichan Valley isn’t just a stunning place to get married—it’s a lifestyle and a vibe that aligns perfectly with the heart of boho weddings. Whether you’re envisioning a forest ceremony followed by a farm-to-table feast, or a barefoot beach elopement with only your closest friends, this region offers everything you need for a wedding that’s as beautiful and unique as your love story.

So, if you’re looking for a wedding that reflects your spirit, your values, and your sense of adventure, look no further than the Cowichan Valley. Here, the wild meets the whimsical—and your boho dream wedding awaits.

Check out our blogs, Weddings: Celebrate Your Style, Top Ten Reasons For an Outdoor Wedding and Top Ten Reasons to Take a Wedding Shuttle Bus!

See also: MyGo Cheers Cowichan Local Transportation for Weddings

Blue Grouse Estate Winery: Taking Flight

by Vanessa Day | May 2, 2025 | Cowichan Valley, Wine Tours, Wineries

Blue Grouse Estate Winery: Taking Flight

Blue Grouse Estate Winery, nestled in the heart of the Cowichan Valley on Vancouver Island, is a standout among the region’s renowned winemakers.

History

Proprietors Steve Beecroft and Tricia Huebner met their future winemaker, Dylan Sheldon at a California wine tasting, quite by chance. Realizing they shared a vision and commitment to creating the best and most unique wines, the three joined forces to make their dreams come true. After a nearly two-year search to find the ideal location, it was love at first sight when Steve and Tricia found themselves taking in the stunning views of the Damali vineyard’s lavender fields.

Established in 2023, the new Cobble Hill Winery symbolizes the trio’s shared dedication and collective vision. Their signature white wine, “Kismet,” reflects their journey – a chance meeting leading to their destined future as Cowichan Valley winemakers.

Sustainable Practices and Biodiversity

Deeply committed to environmental stewardship, Blue Grouse Estate Winery’s property includes a 10-acre nature reserve along Patrolas Creek, providing habitat for diverse wildlife. Additionally, the winery collaborates with Lenora Bees to maintain over 30 beehives, supporting local pollination efforts.

The winery employs sustainable viticulture practices, such as composting vineyard waste and using recycled Eco Glass bottles to reduce its carbon footprint and dedicate itself to preserving the natural beauty of the Cowichan Valley for future generations.

A Lot to Offer

Blue Grouse’s diverse portfolio of wines reflects the unique terroir of the region, each showcasing the distinct characteristics of the Cowichan Valley’s maritime climate.

The Winery produces a range of wines under its Estate and Quill labels. The Estate wines are crafted from estate-grown, transitional-organic vineyards, while the Quill label features wines made from both estate and partner-grown grapes.

White Wines

Ortega: As Vancouver Island’s flagship white grape, Ortega thrives in the Cowichan Valley’s warm summers. Blue Grouse’s 2023 Ortega presents notes of gooseberry, pear, and a mineral finish, making it an excellent pairing with local seafood.
Pinot Gris: The 2023 Pinot Gris is a blend of 80% concrete fermentation and 20% French oak aging. This combination imparts flavours of melon rind, toasty nut pastry, and mixed stone fruit, offering a crisp and fruity profile.
Chardonnay: 100% barrel-aged for 11 months, the 2023 Chardonnay reveals notes of lemon zest, toasted almond, and marzipan, alongside a crisp minerality reflective of the Cowichan Valley.
Bacchus: This Germanic varietal is bright and aromatic, with notes of citrus and nectarines, making it an outstandingly food-friendly option.
Siegerrebe: Exceptionally aromatic, this wine bursts with notes of tropical fruits, citrus, and a floral element, offering a delicate and easy-drinking experience.

Red Wines

Pinot Noir: The 2021 Pinot Noir is crafted from 100% estate-grown grapes, showcasing flavours of red fruits, forest floor, and spice.
Reserve Pinot Noir: Introducing their inaugural Reserve Pinot Noir, this wine is a blend of tradition and innovation. Crafted through foot-treading and clay aging, it offers notes of thimbleberry, cherry, and pine mushroom, aged in barrel for 18 months
Quill Q Red: A robust red blend of Merlot, Cabernet Franc, Marechal Foch, and Syrah, this wine presents flavours of blueberry pie and cassis.
Fortified Black Muscat: This deep ruby-colored wine starts with a nose of boysenberry preserves and stewed plums, leading to flavours of vanilla, caramel, and sweet smokiness.

Sparkling Wines

Paula: Named after the daughter of the winery’s owner, the Paula sparkling wine is a blend of Pinot Gris, Müller-Thurgau, and Ortega, offering a bouquet revealing citrus and brioche, with flavours of apples and lemon-lime.
Charme De L’Île: This signature sparkling wine is made from a blend of 100% Vancouver Island grapes, including Chardonnay, Schönburger, Müller Thurgau, and Pinot Noir. Crafted using the Charmat method, it presents flavours of green apple, key lime, and white peach, with a dry finish and fine, persistent bubbles.
Charme De L’Île Rosé: Made from 100% Gamay Noir grapes, this sparkling rosé exhibits vibrant colour and aromas of strawberry and citrus. It offers juicy flavours of raspberry, white peach, and pink grapefruit, finishing with a touch of minerality.

Rosé Wines

2022 Rosé: Crafted from 100% Gamay Noir, this rosé presents vibrant notes of citrus, pomegranate, and delicate white flowers, making it a perfect companion for light summer dishes.
2022 Quill Rosé Frizzante: Also made from 100% Gamay Noir, this slightly effervescent rosé offers refreshing notes of pomegranate, raspberry, strawberry, and citrus.

Supporting the Community

Blue Grouse Estate Winery is actively involved in the Cowichan Valley community. During BC Wine Month, the winery donates $1 from every bottle sold to Nourish Cowichan, a local charity combating child hunger.

The winery’s commitment to excellence has been recognized with awards for Best Winery Pet, Best Winery Accommodation, and Best Special Events at the Wines of British Columbia’s Best of BC Wine Country Awards.

A Visit to the Winery

Located at 2182 Lakeside Road in Duncan, BC, Blue Grouse Estate Winery is open Wednesday through Sunday from 11:00 am to 5:00 pm. The winery offers a welcoming atmosphere with beautiful views, friendly service, and a variety of experiences for wine enthusiasts.

Visitors to the winery can enjoy various tasting experiences, such as the “Grape to Glass Tour,” which includes a vineyard tour, wine tasting, and local charcuterie. The winery also offers seasonal events, including vertical tastings and wine and chocolate pairings.

Whether you’re a seasoned wine connoisseur or a casual enthusiast, Blue Grouse Estate Winery’s diverse range of wines offers something for every palate. Whether you’re seeking a crisp white, a robust red, or a celebratory sparkling, their portfolio showcases the best of Vancouver Island’s winemaking heritage.

Contact MyGo Cheers Cowichan to set up a tour of the Cowichan Valley’s wineries, including Blue Grouse Estate Winery!

Sunfest 2025

by Vanessa Day | Mar 22, 2025 | Cowichan Valley, Latest News, Transportation

Sunfest 2025

Known for its natural beauty, Lake Cowichan, BC is popular for adventure and outdoor enthusiasts, and ecotourism is becoming one of its fastest growing sectors. Sight-seeing trips and tours and those featuring fishing, kayaking, and hiking, draw people to the area every year.

Every year, the town plays host to SunFest, officially known as the SunFest Country Music Festival. This is the premier country music event of the region, the largest in western Canada, and it’s held annually in Lake Cowichan. In 2025, the four-day festival is scheduled from July 31 to August 3 at the Laketown Ranch Music and Recreation Park in Lake Cowichan.

Festival Overview

SunFest has established itself as a cornerstone of the Cowichan Valley’s cultural scene, attracting country music enthusiasts of all ages from across Canada and beyond. The 2025 edition promises an impressive lineup of artists, diverse ticketing options, and a range of amenities including camping, food, and on-site activities to enhance the festival experience.

This Year: Lineup Highlights

Held over the BC Day long weekend, the 2025 festival features a blend of established stars and emerging talents. Come see the rising stars of country music and the headliners that will ensure another fabulous Sunfest experience in the Cowichan Valley:

Thursday, July 31: Canadian Tim Hicks kicks off the festival with his signature crooning style.
Friday, August 1: Multi-platinum artist Jordan Davis’ smooth baritone is sure to delight; and Ashley Cooke will also take the stage, offering a mix of contemporary country sounds.
Saturday, August 2: Bailey Zimmerman, known for his country-rock style, headlines the evening. The gravelly voiced Chase Rice, a veteran of country festivals worldwide, will also perform.
Sunday, August 3: Sawyer Brown, Ontario boy Owen Riegling, and the Grammy-winning dynamics of the Brothers Osborne close out the festival with their winning performances.

Venue: Laketown Ranch Music and Recreation Park

The festival is hosted at the Laketown Ranch Music and Recreation Park, a renowned venue in Lake Cowichan, approximately 30 kilometers northwest of Duncan. This area is a pristine, naturally beautiful environment that is home to herds of elk and other wildlife. The park offers a spacious outdoor setting, ideal for large-scale events, and provides attendees with scenic views of the surrounding natural beauty.

Ticketing Options

SunFest 2025 offers a variety of ticketing options to cater to different preferences:

Weekend Passes: Access to all four days of the festival
Single-Day Passes: For those interested in attending specific days
VIP Packages: Enhanced experiences with premium seating, exclusive lounges, and other amenities

Tickets are available through the official SunFest website and authorized ticketing partners.

Transportation: Getting There in Style

Last year Sunfest attracted more than 10,000 fans. Just imagine all those vehicles trying to find a great parking space … just like you! Sound like a headache?

MyGo Tours has been the number one local transport provider for Sunfest for the past 6 years. They shuttle to North Shore and South Shore along with downtown Lake Cowichan. Affordable and convenient, it’s a reliable way to shuttle without the hassle of parking or late night walking. The service will pick you up at your location and drop you off directly at the festival grounds entrance. Shuttles begin mid to late afternoon and end at 2 am each night with the possibility of operating later depending on volume. Early reservations are recommended by texting (250) 732-1120.

Accommodation and Amenities

Attendees can choose from various accommodation options, including on-site camping and nearby hotels. The festival site is equipped with essential amenities such as food vendors, merchandise stalls, and rest areas to ensure a comfortable experience for all guests.

Community Impact

Looking to spend your holiday dollars north of the border? SunFest significantly contributes to the local economy by attracting visitors who support local businesses, including hotels, restaurants, and shops. The festival also provides a platform for local artists and vendors, fostering community engagement and cultural exchange.

Come visit the beautiful Cowichan Valley this summer! SunFest 2025 in Lake Cowichan, BC, is set to be a memorable celebration of country music, community, and the natural beauty of the region. With its diverse lineup, scenic venue, and comprehensive amenities, the festival offers an experience that appeals to both country music aficionados and newcomers alike.

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.

Top 5 Reasons to Take Hullo Ferries

by Vanessa Day | Nov 30, 2024 | Cowichan Valley, Transportation

Top 5 Reasons to Take Hullo Ferries

It’s no secret. Vancouver Islanders are justifiably proud of their little piece of paradise in a what is already a pretty awesome country! We love the lakes, the mountains, the culture, and those fabulous views of the ocean that surrounds us. But…if there is one thing we complain about, it’s the hassle and expense of getting off the Island to travel or enjoy the big city lights of Vancouver.

Hello to Hullo

Hullo (officially known as the Vancouver Island Ferry Company) is a privately owned foot passenger ferry service that has been operating between Nanaimo and Vancouver since August 2023. This high-speed, eco-conscious alternative to BC Ferries will get you within steps of Gastown in just 75 minutes!! Who needs the car when everything you came to see is within walking distance?

Working remotely but still need to commute to Vancouver for weekly meetings? No problem. Business travelers will certainly appreciate the convenience of a shorter journey, allowing them to spend more time in their destination cities rather than on the road. With its focus on reduced travel times and an enhanced passenger experience, Hullo offers more luxurious amenities, fewer crowds, and the ability to bypass the long waits associated with BC Ferries. Hullo has quickly gained popularity, serving 400,000 passengers or 1,100 people daily in its first year of operation.

The Vessels

Hullo ferry service operates catamaran-style vessels, which are known for their hydrodynamic efficiency. These vessels are typically lighter and faster than traditional ferries, allowing them to cut travel time. The service between Nanaimo and Vancouver is one of the fastest in the region, a major selling point for frequent travelers, and the ferries deposit passengers right downtown, eliminating the additional travel time required from Tsawwassen or North Vancouver.

Hullo currently operates two high-speed catamarans that seat 354 passengers each. They are named spuhéls (spah – els) meaning “wind”, and sthuqi’ (sta-key) meaning “Sockeye salmon” in the Hul̓q̓umín̓um̓ language used by the Snuneymuxw First Nation on Vancouver Island.

Environmental Impact

One of the standout features of Hullo is its focus on environmental sustainability. The catamaran design of the ferries contributes to its fuel efficiency, as the shape of the hull allows it to glide through the water with less resistance, reducing fuel consumption. The ferry also operates on low-emission engines, which produce significantly fewer greenhouse gases compared to the older diesel-powered ferries used by BC Ferries.

In addition to its propulsion system, Hullo’s commitment to sustainability extends to other aspects of its operations. Each ferry is constructed with lightweight, recyclable materials, and its route is optimized to minimize fuel use. The company is also exploring the use of alternative fuels, such as hydrogen or electric power, to further reduce emissions and make the service even more eco-friendly.

By offering a greener alternative to traditional ferry services, Hullo Ferry reduces its carbon footprint and helps address the environmental concerns that come with transporting large numbers of passengers and vehicles between Vancouver Island and the mainland. This has long been a source of concern in a province known for its commitment to environmental protection.

Top 5 Reasons to Take Hullo Ferries

1. Speed and Efficiency

Hullo ferries dramatically reduce the travel time between Nanaimo and Vancouver. Traditional BC Ferries service takes between 1 1/2 to 2 hours to complete the journey depending on the mainland destination, and then there’s the additional travel time to get downtown. Hullo ferries take just 1 hour and 15 minutes and you’re in the heart of downtown Vancouver!

2. Accessibility

Hullo ensures that its services are accessible to all passengers, including those with mobility challenges. The ferries’ design includes wheelchair-accessible features, such as ramps and designated spaces for passengers with disabilities, making it an inclusive travel option for everyone.

3. Eco-friendly Design

Each ferry uses energy-efficient engines and a sleek, hydrodynamic hull design to reduce fuel consumption and minimize carbon emissions. This is an important consideration in a region like Vancouver Island, where eco-consciousness is a central part of who we are. Hullo’s commitment to sustainability aligns with British Columbia’s efforts to reduce emissions in all sectors of the economy.

4. Passenger Experience

The passenger experience aboard Hullo Ferry is designed to be comfortable and enjoyable. With spacious seating arrangements, large windows for viewing the coastline, and high-end amenities like free Wi-Fi with charging at your seat, food and beverage service, and private lounges, Hullo Ferries aims to provide a premium travel experience. These amenities cater to both leisure and business passengers who may want to stay connected or relax during their journey.

5. Getting There

With Hullo ferries there’s no need to arrive more than 30 minutes prior to your sailing time. If you don’t need to check bags, just make sure you’re there five minutes before the boarding gates close. Cheers Cowichan shuttles groups of 8-27 people to or from the ferry terminal. Why not get your crew together and spend the day in Vancouver enjoying the sights, catching a game, or going to a concert?

Future Plans

Hullo is always looking for ways to enhance the passenger experience. Pets travel for free and there are plans to allow bikes on board in 2025.

The future of Hullo ferries in Nanaimo looks promising, especially as demand for fast, sustainable travel continues to rise. With the success of the service between Vancouver and Nanaimo, there is potential for Hullo to expand its routes to other parts of Vancouver Island, or even offer direct services to other destinations along the British Columbia coastline.

Cobble Hill Winery: New Kid on the Block

by Vanessa Day | Oct 12, 2024 | Cowichan Valley, Wine Tours, Wineries

Cobble Hill Winery: New Kid on the Block

Vancouver Island’s wine industry has grown and evolved over the years, establishing the Cowichan Valley as a significant player on the world stage. The temperate maritime climate, which is characterized by mild winters and warm, dry summers create the ideal growing conditions for cool climate grape varietals. Vineyards in the Valley have become well known for producing many award-winning wines tempting the most discerning palates.

In 2023, Cobble Hill Winery announced its purchase of Damali Winery in a move intended to mark an exciting new chapter for the vineyard. Cobble Hill Winery’s plan to expand on Damali’s offerings by creating a range of new wines will surely find favour with loyal customers of the vineyard as well as visiting wine aficionados.

It’s Kismet

Expanding the Wine Portfolio

While Damali made a name for itself with standout varietals, particularly its award-winning Pinot Noir, Cobble Hill Winery plans to offer a more comprehensive selection, appealing to a wider audience and enhancing its reputation as a premier wine destination on Vancouver Island.

The new owners have expanded the original vineyard to include the robust red grapes of Castel and Cabernet Libre, the aromatic whites of Siegerrebe, Bacchus, and a Dijon Clone Pinot Noir.

The red wine selection will include the introduction of Zweigelt while the white wine selection is growing with the addition of Viognier, Albarino, Verdelho, and Rkatsiteli. This year alone 3,500 new vines have been planted so that white wines such as Grüner Veltliner, Gewürztraminer, and Sauvignon Blanc will be showcased in Cobble Hill’s portfolio.

Cobble Hill’s Wine Portfolio

Cobble Hill Winery offers a diverse range of wines, from Muscat to Merlot and Austrian Zweigelt to fortified (Port style) Castel, each crafted to highlight the unique characteristics of the grapes grown in their vineyards, including:

• White wine: The aptly named Kismet, is Cobble Hill’s flagship wine. The sensational dry, medium to light bodied wine showcases vibrant Albariño, Sauvignon Blanc, Viognier, and Bacchus varietals in a limited offering. Kismet dances on the palate imparting flavours of key lime, mint, pineapple, and white ginger. It’s a versatile wine that can be enjoyed on its own or alongside seafood and goat cheese.

• Pinot Gris: A crowd-pleaser, Cobble Hill’s Pinot Gris has a light citrus aroma and flavours of white peach, Granny Smith apple, and green almond. Its bright acidity makes it a refreshing pairing for light appetizers, salads, and Asian cuisine.

• Rosé: A medium to light bodied wine, the winery’s rosé is a delightful summer sip, bursting with red currant, cherry, and watermelon flavours. It’s a refreshing choice for warm days and outdoor gatherings.

• Pinot Noir: Cobble Hill’s Pinot Noir is a newcomer to their portfolio and features notes of red cherry, strawberry, and earthy undertones. This inaugural release is sure to become a popular favourite, reflecting the vineyard’s unique terroir and the vision of its proprietors.

Enjoy a bottle of wine and a picnic on the picturesque patio overlooking the fragrant lavender fields.

Experience Cobble Hill Winery

Visiting Cobble Hill Winery is more than just a wine tasting; it’s an experience that immerses guests in the beauty of the Cowichan Valley. The winery features a charming tasting room where visitors can sample the wines while taking in stunning views of the vineyards and surrounding landscape. Knowledgeable staff members are on hand to guide tastings, sharing insights about the wines and the winemaking process. Individuals and tour groups are welcomed.

Plan for special events like a corporate out of the office function or an anniversary picnic. Just imagine getting married with the picturesque lavender fields providing a magical backdrop!

Consider joining the Wine Club. You’ll have access to limited edition wines and rare vintages. You’ll also enjoy behind-the-scenes tours, and private wine tastings.

Cobble Hill Winery aims to maintain the charm and character of Damali while infusing it with its own unique flair, creating a destination that offers a holistic experience for wine lovers. For anyone seeking a memorable wine experience, a visit to this charming winery is a must, providing a taste of the beautiful landscape and vibrant culture of Vancouver Island. Whether you are a seasoned wine enthusiast or a curious newcomer, Cobble Hill Winery promises a delightful journey through the world of wine, rooted in the heart of the Cowichan Valley.

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