Newcastle Island is part of Snuneymuxw First Nation Traditional Territory. Wildlife Watching Follow Newcastle Island’s 7.5-km (4.5-mi) loop trail (about a 2 ½-3 hour hike) and you’ll likely encounter exotic plants or rare animals. Newcastle Island is one of the few places where you can spot blonde raccoons and a purple martin colony. Also watch for the island’s resident bald eagles, coastal black-tailed deer, great blue herons and harbour seals. Getting Here A passenger ferry leaves from Maffeo Sutton Park every 20 minutes and runs May through Thanksgiving weekend (October). The fare is about $8/person. Private boat owners can moor at the docks or anchor in Mark Bay. In the off-season, arrangements can be made with the Protection Connection ferry service to access Newcastle Island. Just for Fun Newcastle’s beaches are a popular spot for swimming, beachcombing and snapping photos of downtown Nanaimo. Pack a picnic or grab a snack in the pavilion and stay for the day. Or unroll your sleeping bag at the campground and spend the night in the forest. For a ferry schedule or more information, call (250) 754-7893 or visit www.newcastleisland.ca or www.tourismnanaimo.com. 14 www.tourismnanaimo.com