About the Piraeus
Mission
“ I feel a deep connection to our planet, and a deeper responsibility to share with others the wonders of sailing and B.C.’s precious environment, and I like to do that with as little impact as possible.
Our mission is to provide a memorable experience cruising in one of Canada’s most acclaimed sailing destinations, in a positive and safe manner.
We strive to create an experience where an easy and comfortable camaraderie and great food create lasting impressions in the lives of our guests. We believe in fostering true relaxation and appreciation for all that is good in life and in the importance of reconnecting with self, family,and friends, and the natural world…
We set very high standards for the operation of our vessel, our crew, and the sailing experience you will have. We actively work with local businesses to help foster tourism along the coast and in the Queen Charlottes. We strive to leave a small footprint on the environment through economic support to our local communities. This is truly our passion, and we look forward to sharing it with you!”
Bill Woodworth,Captain
Piraeus’s History
Named after the most famous port in Greek history, Piraeus is a classic 50ft wooden boat. She was designed by local legend Victoria naval architect Frank Fredette and built in 1957 by master boat builder Frank Wright using the finest materials.
As a fishing boat, Piraeus trolled the coastal waters handling all kinds of weather year round. Later she became a comfortable live aboard pleasure craft. Piraeus can accommodate 12 day trippers, with berths for up to 6 overnight passengers, plus the Captain and crew.
In 2002 Piraeus was purchased by her Captain Bill Woodworth, and so began the dream to share with others the natural wonders of the sea and the incredible beauty that BC’s Coast has to offer.
Piraeus embarked on a three year journey of complete restoration and renovation. Commissioned by the expert boat builders by the S.A.LT.S. society in Victoria BC. She was refitted with a new powerful engine, the latest navigation electronics and an exquisitely detailed interior. Piraeus boasts a selection of beautiful woods that now line the boat including warm yellow cedar and a rich purple-heart trim. It is a pleasure to be surrounded by so much wood! And that is what sets Piraeus apart today, as wood has become for most, a thing of the past… for Piraeus it is her “Pride and Glory.”
In 2005 Piraeus proudly took part in the Tall Ships Event hosted in Victoria, BC , where she was requested to be one of the official passenger vessels for this busy event. Being part of the fleet of Tall Ships was an honor and a thrill for Piraeus’s owner Bill Woodworth. But it also served as a reminder that his boat was ready to move beyond the day- tripping from Victoria’s harbour, and take it’s rightful place touring B.C.’s beautiful coastline.
TODAY
Today Piraeus is fulfilling her legacy cruising the coast of British Columbia. Offering charter trips thru the Gulf Islands, or journey along the coast of Vancouver Island. as she heads to (and from) her summer destination, touring the Queen Charlotte Islands acclaimed Qwaii Haanas National Park Reserve and Haida Heritage Site . Enjoy the serenity as we gracefully glide along, or join in to learn about sailing, maneuvering, and charting courses. Either way we promise this will be a memorable experience.
