Absolutely amazing! Breathtaking views and an incredible vessel with such an inspiring history. The Captain, Mike, and First Mate, Rowan, are the real deal and show their passion for sailing and for helping others. I would recommend everyone put this experience on their list when near Victoria!
- Laura McKenzie
It's my last full day here in Victoria, and being out on the water with Mike and Rowan was an excellent way to close my trip. I left with some hands-on sailing knowledge, good conversation, and a sun burnt face from the sunny, beautiful day that it was.
The 3-Hour Sail will certainly be on my list of "to-do's" each time I visit Victoria.
Thanks guys. It was a great afternoon.
- Randy Laporte
As we walked along the Victoria waterfront we saw the Duen docked and on a whim decided to book a sail for the next morning. We’re so glad we did! We had a wonderful 3 hour morning sail with Captain Mike and mate Rowan. They were professional, personable, and allowed us to join in on the sailing duties. We had a lovely morning with a great group of people.
- Kathi B
We had a wonderful sailing trip with Mike, Isabelle, and Dan on this historic vessel. Unlike other sailing trips we had been on, we actually sailed! The crew asked our kids and others to help them raise and lower the sails and taught us the lingo, how to tie off the ropes, and the history of the boat. It was truly a remarkable experience to remember! We fully recommend this to anyone visiting or living in Victoria.
- Laura Chasmer
We had a great experience during our first time on a sailing boat. Capt Mike and Isabelle are impeccably qualified sailors and nautical pilots with a lifetime of sailing knowledge and experience. The entire 3 hours was made fun and educational and at all times safe. Capt Mike has many great stories and tells a fascinating history of the DUEN. Lots of opportunities to be a crew person whether hoisting the sails or stepping out along the bowsprit. All made fun by Isabelle and Capt Mike. Highly recommend.
- Steve Ellis
First time on a sail boat and I could not have had more fun! The staff and captain are amazing and so knowledgeable. Exceptional experience, really worth it! Thank you so much for everything!
- Isabela Affonso
Thank you for your warm & generous hospitality over these past several days. It has been an absolute joy – start to finish – the beauty of your homeland and your boat and the kindness of you & the crew. Thank you!
- P. House California, USA
Thanks to the Duen for providing a wonderful gathering place for this week. Thanks to Mike and his great crew for taking such wonderful care of us all
- P. Clement & K. Schmid Victoria, BC
Going for a sail with Mike of "3-hour Sail" was a spur of the moment decision that I don't for a moment regret. Signing up at the last moment I decided to phone to confirm and Mike himself answered the phone - a very warm and engaging man that gave me confidence that this would be a great experience. Mike is an enormously experienced sailor with every valuable training and background under his belt. Sensing my enthusiasm, he allowed me to hold the wheel for much of the trip and when he was not attending to the rigging etc and engaging other customers in helping he was giving me the thumbs up from the other end of the boat to indicate I was still on course! All in all, a fabulous 3 hours in which we got glimpse of the intricacies of sailing a larger sail boat. We also participated in a rescue where some people had sailed out into some white caps with a craft unsuitable for anything beyond a mill pond! Highly recommend this trip: you won't regret it!
- Robert Walker
5 Stars. Awesome day. Mike the captain and his first mate Rowan are very knowledgeable and we had a blast. Felt safe. Got to ring the ships bell, help hoist sails & even steer the ship. Experience of a lifetime.
- Erroll Barrie
DUEN is a treasure; literally thousands of people have sailed on her over the years - she's a great sail training ship and being able to step aboard for a few hours to soak up the history is a gift. Thanks Mike & Manon Hobbis, and so many others, who have worked to keep DUEN going strong since 1939!
- Rob Keith
Quick note to this business,
My sister and I took our dad out with you the other day and it was such an incredible memory made!
We hit the wind but this team handled it so amazingly and it made the experience that much more! You have an incredible business with kind caring staff (Mike) who worked with me to get this booked for my dad! And Cam and Ryan for the sail! As locals it seems we have done it all on this island, but this is just one more thing to add to the books! I have every intention of raving this experience to anyone I can.
In a tough time for our family we had many smiles the other day and it’s you we thank!
We wanted to share a sincere thank you for all you are it was absolutely amazing!
- Lauren Clark
Captain Mike and First Mate Rowan provided an excellent sailing experience. Three hours goes by fast during this fun and exciting tour. We had the option to help raise sails, steer the ship and if you are adventurous go onto the bow sprit. We appreciated all the safety information and what to do ‘in case of’ at the start of the voyage. We got to see various birds and a dall porpoise. The crews’ expertise and knowledge of sailing and the waters is impressive. We enjoyed hearing about the ship’s history and feeling the serenity of being powered only by the sails! This is a must tour for those who appreciate a sailing ship! It’s distinct from all others in the harbour.
- J. Johnson
Wow. I did the sunset Cruise. The history of this boat is amazing we left the harbour and went out the inner harbour seeing the Cruise ships. Was Quiet and calm met lots people from all over the world on the boat lots of good conversations I would highly recommend this next time I’m gonna try to 3 hour sail
The views are amazing. Got back after sunset to see beautiful victories with all the lights on
10 star review if I could
- MIke Hill
The most amazing experience ever!!! Kind and knowledgeable crew shared their expertise with great patience to include us on the operation of the ship. A beautiful ship and a beautiful voyage. Your life is not complete until you have tried this very worthwhile adventure!
- Eden Smith
What a wonderful experience! We took our team on the three hour day cruise, & everyone thoroughly enjoyed themselves! Captain Mike & First Mate Ryan were so pleasant & welcoming; even letting our team members join in some of the sailing activities. We took food & beverage on the boat with us, & enjoyed the glorious weather. I would highly recommend this activity. Thanks again Mike & Ryan. We will be back!
- "The Housse"
A magical, wonderful experience! Captain Mike and First Mate Rowan were lovely and great to be around. We were treated like friends aboard the ship, a first-class day. We even saw a transient pod of Orcas hunting for seals! The history of the Duen is fascinating and the crew will spend time explaining it thoroughly. I highly recommend this for anyone who is interested in spending time on an incredible ship with an incredible crew.
- Joel Ree
Thank you so much for helping make the ‘maps’ come to life!
- M. Post Vancouver, BC
Sailing is surely one of the world’s finest places with surely some of the world’s finest people – surely this is the way life is meant to be. The Duen – this ‘culturally modified Norwegian wood’ – a magical place. I am full of the deepest appreciation and admiration.
- T. Young
Well here we are at the end of the best nine days of my life. At the start of this trip we were invited to join the "Duen family" and I now want a permanent adoption... I can not begin to pick out the highlights, however the opportunity to learn about the Haida culture is at the top. The Hecate Strait experience with Humpback & Fin whales was "unreal
- J. Miller Victoria, BC
Thank you so much for such a wonderful experience. We had the best time imaginable. The boat, the surroundings, the company were all beautiful and perfect. Thank you so much for your kindness.
- M. C. & A. USA
Sturdy old Norwegian gaffe-rigged catch very stable even in a strong wind. We had a lovely sail, first mate Rowan and captain Mike we’re great, very knowledgeable and friendly. I highly recommend this sailing experience.
- Don Rodes
This trip was way more than we expected. You and the crew work so well together. What a way to celebrate an anniversary. Thanks and blessings to you all.
- D. & J. Burkhart Ohio, USA
Beyond Grand!
- F. Galvez Surrey, BC
Our thoroughly delightful holiday on the lovely Duen has come to and end – BUGGER!
- R. & T. Elder Australia
Amazing place, amazing boat, amazing company and of course amazing food. I feel very lucky, rich to have experienced this trip. Thank you all for your knowledge, experience and for sharing this space with me!
- Meika Pearson College Student from Germany
Thank you from the bottom of my heart for the adventure you've taken us on with such open hearts and thoughtfulness: into this Land of Wonders, Gwaii Haanas. You've indeed begun for me a journey that will never end. Howa to the good ship Duen too!
- L. Dennys
First time on a sail boat for my family and I, we did the evening cruise. Thank you Captain Mike and first mate Rowan for a special birthday memory. You made us feel like a part of the crew, so kind and friendly, highly enjoyed chatting with them while taking in a beautiful view and sunset. We got to help hoist the sails and steer the ship. Also got to be a little adventurous and climb onto the netting of the ship's bow!
The crew are very knowledgeable about the vessel. The Duen has an amazing history, it was a privilege to be welcomed aboard such a beautiful ship. We look forward to returning for another sailing in the near future!
Tip: It can get quite cold in the evening on the water, so bring a sweater/jacket!
- Laura Mardan
A truly memorable adventures - the perfect transition into our lives after work. We really look forward to sharing time and experiences with you again. Thank you, Thank you
- K & B Nelsen Washington, USA
My family of 6, three generations, had a fantastic time. I enjoyed helping out. Captain Mike and first mate Rowan are very knowledgeable and made the trip very enjoyable
- Robert Squire
Thanks to the Duen for providing a wonderful gathering place for this week. Thanks to Mike and his great crew for taking such wonderful care of us all
- P. Clement & K. Schmid Victoria, BC
What a wonderful experience. Thanks to a superb crew, magnificent scenery and 1st rate guidance.
- J. & T. Crosse New Zealand
What a wonderful experience. Thanks to a superb crew, magnificent scenery and 1st rate guidance.
- J. & T. Crosse New Zealand
Thanks for sharing your lives with us. And I especially enjoyed the relationships you introduced me to: the islands, the sea, the life, and the people. What a gift!
- J. Pope Vancouver, BC
