Reputable adventure company owners are risk managers. We all look to minimize the risk and enhance safety. We work with governmental agencies for licensing, land use and enforcement. We also have to assess risk when hiring subcontactors like float planes, ferries and water taxis. Do they meet their industry standards? For our guests, all of this happens in the background. However, it takes a considerable amount of time, paperwork and money to be a legitimate adventure tour company. Owners cannot pick and choose when and how they are compliant.
When you put your trust in an adventure tour company, it is up to you to be aware of their risk. You have to think like a lawyer or an insurance agent and ask yourself, "what would happen if?...."
Any adventure tour company owner should be happy to answer any of the following questions:
Do you run your own trips or are you a booking agent?
How long have you been in business?
Do you carry liability insurance? How much?
Do you have land use permits? What kind?
Most provincial and federal agencies list the companies that have licenses on their website. Are they on the websites?
What is your cancellation & refund policy?
Are you licensed to sell trip cancellation insurance?
Do you work with First Nations in the areas you go to?
Is accommodation before & after the trip included in the price?
If accommodation is not included, what is the average price for B&Bs and hotels in your community.
Where can I store my vehicle? Is there a charge?
What is your maximum group size?
What is the maximum guide to guest ratio?
Do you have a risk management & evacuation plan?
What environmental impact do you make?
How do you minimize impact?
Do your guides have certification? What kind?
Are they employees or independent contractors?
What kind of communication gear do you use?
Do you prepare meals in the field or use prepared meals?
We're located in Port Alberni on Highway 4 - the Pacific Rim Highway. Across the road is Clutesi Marina, where fishing boats are launched to go out the Alberni Inlet to the open Pacific Ocean. Some of our sea kayaking day trips start from here. We rent Seaward sea kayaks and Rocky Mountain Bicycles. Shuttle service for Log Train Trail.
Batstar is surrounded by walking trails along the Somass River and the paved trails along Kitsuksis Dyke. This is all part of an estuary where you can see all sorts of bird life and the occasional Black Bear. 5 species of Salmon swim in the Somass. Grab lunch from Batstar Cafe & Picnic and sit on the benches and relax by the river.
