The Wei Wai Kum First Nation has acquired a majority interest in the Campbell River Adventure Tours Group, which includes Campbell River Whale Watching and Wildcoast Adventures.

The move marks the transition of one of the region’s premier adventure tourism operators into an Indigenous-owned business.

Under the agreement, current owners Stephen Gabrysh and Tyler Bruce will remain on as partners and continue in their leadership roles overseeing day-to-day operations. The arrangement is intended to ensure business continuity and maintain the operational expertise that has helped the companies become industry leaders, while also creating a clear pathway for the Nation to assume full ownership in the near future.

For the Wei Wai Kum First Nation, the acquisition represents a significant step in its broader economic sovereignty strategy. The Nation says the investment will secure a strong revenue stream to support community programs, infrastructure, and social services.

It also strengthens the Nation’s role in marine ecotourism within its traditional territory, allowing operations to align with Indigenous stewardship values.

Chief Chris Roberts says the partnership is about more than business, calling it a commitment to the stewardship of local waters and the future of the Nation’s people. He says bringing the companies under Wei Wai Kum ownership expands the Nation’s presence in the marine sector, creates career pathways for youth, and ensures its history and culture are shared authentically with visitors.

Those involved describe the transaction as a tangible example of reconciliation in action, demonstrating how a successful private enterprise can transition into Indigenous ownership while supporting the broader regional economy.