We headed out from Horseshoe Bay to Departure Bay on an early morning ferry and foot passengers. The forest fires made the air thick from smoke. This blocked passage views of the neighbouring islands and mainland. The blank horizon gave a Narnian edge of the world feel.

As we approached Departure Bay we were finally able to see coast mountains.

We caught the bus from the terminal to Stanley Park and then walked to the Totem Poles to meet my uncles and cousins.

This was my daughter’s first time to Vancouver. Unfortunately, she could not see the surrounding mountainscape that makes up the classic Vancouver view.

Stanley Park is a great place to walk or cycle. Many people rent bicycles from rental companies outside of the park, but public bikes are available just inside the park.

We met up with family soon after we reached the totem poles and continued our walk to “Girl In A Wetsuit”.

My old friend and his dog, Bones, met there and we walked to lighthouse and then returned to the totem poles where everyone parked.

From there we drove to the Boathouse  at Denman and Beach Ave for lunch, followed by gelato and beach stroll.

Then we returned by public bus to the ferry for return trip back to The Island.