The Wei Wai Kum First Nation has acquired a majority interest in the Campbell River Adventure Tours Group — which includes Campbell River Whale Watching and Wildcoast Adventures – marking the transition of one of the region’s premier adventure providers into an Indigenous-owned business.
While the Wei Wai Kum First Nation assumes majority ownership, current owners Stephen Gabrysh and Tyler Bruce remain on as partners, continuing their leadership roles in daily operations and ensuring business continuity and the retention of the deep operational expertise that has made the companies industry leaders, while establishing a clear pathway for the Nation to assume full ownership in the near future.
The acquisition is a major step in a broader economic sovereignty strategy for the Wei Wai Kum First Nation as it secures a robust revenue stream to support community programs, infrastructure, and social services.
More importantly, by owning a leading marine ecotourism operator, the Nation reasserts its presence and guardianship over its traditional marine territory, ensuring operations align with Indigenous stewardship values.
Chief Chris Roberts of the Wei Wai Kum First Nation, said that: “This partnership is about more than business; it is about the stewardship of our waters and the future of our people. Stephen and Tyler have built an incredible operation that has always operated with a deep respect for this territory.”
And Chief Roberts continued: “By bringing these companies under Wei Wai Kum ownership, we are expanding our presence in the marine sector, creating career pathways for our youth, and ensuring that our history and culture will be shared authentically with the world.”
For Campbell River Whale Watching and Wildcoast Adventures, this partnership offers the ability to develop an immersive, culturally grounded guest experience. The integration of authentic Wei Wai Kum history and storytelling into future tours meets the growing global demand for meaningful indigenous tourism experiences.
Stephen Gabrysh said that: “We are incredibly proud to partner with the Wei Wai Kum First Nation. This evolution allows us to deepen the connection our guests have with this land. It ensures that the business remains locally rooted, stable, and committed to success for generations to come.”
This transaction serves as a tangible example of reconciliation in action, demonstrating how successful private enterprises can transition into Indigenous ownership to benefit the entire regional economy. It solidifies Campbell River’s reputation as a global destination for Indigenous marine tourism and signals a market shift toward regenerative tourism – where commercial success is tied directly to ecosystem health and community prosperity.
The Wei Wai Kum First Nation in Campbell River, British Columbia is deeply rooted in its traditional territories. They are dedicated to building a healthy and prosperous community, grounded in the strength of their language, culture, and history.
Campbell River Whale Watching and Wildcoast Adventures are premier adventure tourism providers specializing in ethical whale watching, wildlife tours, and multi-day kayaking experiences. Renowned for their commitment to education and sustainability, they offer visitors meaningful connections to the wildlife and landscapes of the Discovery Islands and Johnstone Strait.
Go to www.weiwaikum.ca or www.crww.ca for more.
In the photos
Photo 1: Campbell River Whale Watching co-owners Stephen Gabrysh (left) and Tyler Bruce (right) with Chief Chris Roberts of the Wei Wai Kum First Nation (centre) at the Wei Wai Kum Band office.
Photo 2: The wood-fired sauna and beachfront featured at Wildcoast Adventures’ Orca Camp glamping experience. (Photo by Michael Hack)
Photo 3: This carving is a territory acknowledgment and a celebration of Liǧʷiłdaxʷ cultural heritage and storytelling at Campbell River Whale Watching’s office at the Discovery Harbour Marina. (Photo by Jenna Dixon)
Photo 4: Campbell River Whale Watching Zodiac tour, led by Zoe Hasenfratz. (Photo by Robin Pears)
Photo 5: Orca seen on Wildcoast Adventures’ Orca Camp experience. (Photo by Sara Kempner)
