Alert Bay is a centre for Kwakwaka’wakw Culture and History. The permanent exhibit at the U’mista Cultural Centre showcases the famed Potlatch Collection of ceremonial regalia, taken by Canadian authorities in 1922 during the potlatch ban era and finally returned in 1980. A walk through town brings you to the original ‘Namgis Burial grounds where you can see Memorial and other Totem Poles (please view from roadside only). The world’s tallest Totem Pole is located next to the traditional ‘Namgis Big House and other Memorial Totem Poles and Archways are located throughout the Island. Traditional dance performances by the T’sasala Cultural Group are held Thursday through Saturday in July and August (ending 3rd weekend). The Alert Bay Library-Museum has over 9,000 photographs of local history and displays items from early settlement years. The Ecological Park features a cedar boardwalk over a marsh; there are 16 KM of Island trail systems for the hiking or biking enthusiast. Enjoy visiting the art galleries and gift shops on the Island and see the many historic buildings along the waterfront. Take a stroll along the boardwalk which stretches along the waterfront from the original ‘Namgis Burial Grounds to the U’mista Cultural Centre. Experience a whale watching/wild life tour. Please note that permission is needed to visit the historical sites of the Kwakwaka’wakw, this can be obtained by calling the local First Nation offices or the U’mista Cultural Centre. Stay and relax awhile in our variety of Accommodations and Restaurants.For more information on Alert Bay please contact the Alert Bay Visitor Centre Winter Hours: September to June Monday to Friday 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM, closed Saturday, Sunday and Holidays. Summer Hours: July to August Daily 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM Phone: (250) 974-5024 Email: [email protected] web: http://www.alertbay.ca
Alert Bay and Cormorant Island were both named after Her Majesty's Ships, HMS Alert and HMS Cormorant, coastal cruisers that surveyed the coast of British Columbia from 1846 to 1861.