The Gorge Waterway is one of Victoria’s most scenic and beloved places – a tidal corridor teeming with marine life and a favourite for paddlers and shoreline walkers alike. But on May 11, it became the site of something just as important: a hands-on effort to protect the very ecosystem that makes it so special.
Led by Prince of Whales Whale and Marine Wildlife Adventures, a team of volunteers and partner organizations removed 241.3 kilograms – over 500 pounds – of debris from the Gorge Waterway’s shoreline and surrounding waters. The effort, held in collaboration with Transport Canada, Surfrider Foundation Vancouver Island and Black Ball Ferry Line, is part of a larger mission: keeping the region’s waterways clean, safe and full of life.
Prince of Whales and Black Ball Ferry Line’s marine crews collected more than 90 kilograms of waste, including nearly 14 kilograms of rope and several large, heavy items pulled from difficult-to-access areas. Transport Canada focused on removing 24.3 kilograms of foam – a pollutant that breaks down into microplastics, threatening marine wildlife and water quality.
“As stewards of the Salish Sea, we feel a deep responsibility to lead by example when it comes to environmental protection,” says Elspeth McGillivray, general manager at Prince of Whales. “This cleanup is just one of many ways we live out our commitment to conservation and community.”
Ocean and shoreline cleanups like these bring powerful benefits, protecting marine animals from becoming entangled in debris or ingesting plastic, preserving beautiful natural spaces for locals and visitors and preventing toxic chemicals from leaching into the water. Even small items – like cigarette butts – can pollute vast amounts of water, harming fish, birds and human health. Clean beaches and waterways also strengthen coastal economies by keeping natural areas safe and attractive for tourism, fishing and recreation.
This year’s effort followed a similar cleanup in July 2024, when over 380 kilograms of garbage were cleared from the Inner Harbour and Gorge. Items pulled from the water included tires, appliances, plastics and textiles – stark reminders of how pollution persists, even in urban areas cherished for their natural beauty.
Beyond removing debris, cleanups help raise public awareness and gather crucial data that can inform environmental policy and plastic reduction laws. Organizations like the Surfrider Foundation use data from cleanups to push for legislation that prevents pollution at its source – transforming local action into systemic change.
And while large-scale cleanups are impactful, McGillivray says the spirit of regenerative tourism – where visitors actively help protect the places they visit – means there’s room for everyone to contribute in small ways. Whether joining an organized event or simply picking up litter while enjoying the coast, individuals can help keep the Salish Sea vibrant and healthy.
“Working together like this creates real impact,” McGillivray says. “It’s a reminder that we all have a role to play in preserving the natural places we love.”
If you’re planning a visit to Victoria or Vancouver Island this summer, and want to give back to your host community in a meaningful way, check out vancouverisland.surfrider.ca/events where you’ll find a list of coming beach cleanups – also a terrific way to connect with locals for their tips and favourite local gems!
And for those choosing an ocean adventure with Prince of Whales – Biosphere Certified and a Climate Positive-designated marine adventure company – their experiences also help give back. As a member of 1% For the Planet, the company contributes at least 1 per cent of annual sales to local conservation initiatives, and in addition to environmentally focused on-board education about the Salish Sea and its residents, a $5 conservation fee helps passengers contribute to that greater goal.
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