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Nanaimo
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The town was originally established as a trading outpost in the British Columbia wilderness in the beginning of the 19th century. The town was officially incorporated in 1853, which was the same year that "The Nanaimo Bastion" was built, a still standing fort.
The town became a coal export town with many mines setting up shop in the area. Unfortunately, one of the deadliest mining disasters in history took place in the town in 1887, killing 150 people. However, coalmining continued to flourish in the area until the middle of the 20th century, when the exportation of lumber took over.
Take a three minute sixteen second look at the area with this professionally made, tourism video. Watch out for the Bungee Jump and the "Nanaimo Bar"....a unique chocolate treat..and turn on the sound, it's narrated--->
The second largest artificial reef in the world is located in nearby waters. The HMCS Cape Breton was sunk in 2001 and provides a great chance to dive and explore. The World War II vessel is intact and upright under the water and many different diving trips and adventures can be arranged, for the beginner diver to the experienced and familiar. Other scuba diving trips can be done in the area and ships can be chartered for leisurely sightseeing tours or anything else you desire.
The area boasts an extraordinary amount of trails for hiking and biking for those who want to take in the beauty of the natural scenery. The many parks provide a great place to relax while the trails can range from the extremely intensive to the great for everyone strolling trails.
The Nanaimo Bastion, once a fort, is now a historical museum where you can learn about the history of the area. Other museums include the Vancouver Island Military Museum and the Nanaimo District Museum.
The Port Theatre seats 800 and houses many different forms of culture, art and entertainment. From dramatic plays, comedy and improvisation, musical acts and ballets, there are plenty of different performances throughout the year.
There are many seasonal festivals and local events that you can plan your trip around. There are many art galleries downtown that provide a look at the broad spectrum of local art and artists.
Accommodations are plentiful and you can seek out any style of trip that you could think of. From rustic campgrounds to cheap hostels for visiting students, from local bed and breakfasts to bigger inns and all the way up to luxury resorts, hotels and spas.
A trip to the east coast of Vancouver Island can be whatever you want it to be, and is a great place for the outdoor enthusiast, history buff, cultural hound – or whatever you are – to have an outstanding time. Just remember the Video....so much to discover!
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> Nanaimo is a great starting point for discovering the northern end of Vancouver Island because there are two ferries from Vancouver on the mainland. One from North Vancouver and one from Tsawwassen, south of Vancouver. The trip across takes about 2 3/4 hours and carries cars and trucks as well as foot passengers.
> This is also a great circle tour:
Vancouver...Nanaimo...Victoria...Vancouver
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