The MV Seaway Express is a large and comfortable vessel, designed for safe passage and smooth cruising in Barkley Sound.  This is an ideal boat for families and other adventurers who want both a wildlife viewing cruise as well as the opportunity to explore one of the more remote and charming communities of the west coast. 

The Seaway Express also provides travelers with the unique opportunity to access all three sections of Pacific Rim National Park (Long Beach, the Broken Group and the Westcoast Trail).

The Seaway Express is the brainchild of John Monrufet, original owner of the Lady Rose in Barkley Sound, and Bill Garden, well-known west coast marine architect.

Together, in Bill's summer cottage on Benson Island, they put together the concept of a fast and comfortable west coast passenger boat. Bill designed and supervised the building of the Seaway Express at Philbrook's Shipyards in Victoria and, for many years, John skippered his pride and joy through the waters of the Alberni Inlet and Barkley Sound. Following John's retirement, the Seaway Express served the logging industry, transporting crews to the camps in the Alberni Inlet.

In 2006, John's main dream for the Seaway Express was finally realized with the creation of a ferry route between Ucluelet and Bamfield. These two communities, so close geographically, yet separated by hours of gravel roads, are now only an hour apart thanks to the Seaway Express. The successful 2006 season proved that a fast link between Ucluelet and Bamfield is a welcome addition to the locals, visitors to the Pacific Rim National Park, hikers of the west coast trail and kayakers wishing to paddle the quiet waters of the Broken Group of Islands. As an added bonus, passengers aboard the Seaway Express experience the spectacular scenery and prolific wild life along the journey.

The Boat:

• 62 feet/18.2 metres in length
• 2 heated cabins
• comfortable airplane style seating
• covered breezeway for sheltered outside viewing
• outside deck access around the entire boat
• washroom
• maps & wildlife books
• binoculars
• children's area
• snacks & beverages
• space for kayaks, bikes, and backpacks
• pet friendly
• licensed crew
• onboard naturalist
• Transport Canada certified

The Crew:

The Seaway Express is a family operated business combining a wide array of knowledge, enthusiasm and experience from our highly trained and friendly crew.

Dave Payne, our trusty skipper, has been living and operating various boats in Barkley Sound for over 20 years.  His expertise in navigating these challenging waters and his lifetime of fascinating mariner stories are a valuable asset to the Seaway Express crew. 

Given Popowich, our Operations Manager comes from a strong background in yacht charter management and sailing instruction.  Given loves to share his knowledge of the amazing natural and cultural history of the local area while safely navigating the boat and looking for whale spouts!