Building bridges in a birch bark canoe

Former Yorkshireman Chris Cooper and crew will be paddling the entire coast of the UK in a 42 foot long replica birch bark canoe called “Spirit Dancer”. Chris states “This really is a homecoming for me and I’m proud to be bringing aspects of the Canadian culture I have experienced back to England.”

700 canoe paddles have been specially created for “Spirit Dancer’s” journey. There are 300 6ft cedar paddle made of reclaimed West Coast Red Cedar aged at 400 years old from Vancouver’s Stanley Park. The paddles have each been individually carved and designed by Squamish artist Stewert Nahanee whose brother Wes designed the motif for the canoe’s spray deck.

Locals will have a chance to see the canoe and learn from the artists Stuart and Wes about the meaning behind the beautiful designs. 400 Yellow Cedar paddles are being designed and crafted by Native and Non native youth.

Originally from the village of Oxenhope, in Yorkshire Chris Cooper, has spent the last 30 years as a professional guide in British Columbia. An accomplished outdoorsman Chris has already completed a 105 day, 2000 km canoe journey along the BC/Alaska Coastline. He is dedicated to inspiring youth through wilderness experiences and providing them with the necessary skills to become great future leaders.

Integral to the success of this journey is the crew. The British Armed Forces have answered the call with both the Royal Marines and Royal Navy volunteering to crew legs of the journey.

15 Canadian crews will also participate including youth from Canada’s west coast First Nations tribes , university students, members of the Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) and members of the Vancouver Police. While most of the crew spots are filled there is still opportunity for Brits to grab a paddle for part of the journey!

Find out more at Spiritdancercanoejourneys.ca