Maritime Masterclasses: A West Coast Trail Preparation Primer

Prepare for your West Coast Trail adventure with experienced hiker, Chantal Webb! Learn what to pack and what to leave behind, get insider tips for booking the trail, and gain essential hiking knowledge, including trail etiquette, wildlife safety, and navigation techniques. Whether you’re a seasoned hiker or a first-timer, this primer ensures you’re ready for a successful and unforgettable journey.

This program does not require registration, but you can register to ensure your spot. It is included in the cost of admission or with a MMBC membership.

Instructor Chantal Webb has been a runner her entire life. After 28 years, she decided to offset some of her running with hiking, to reduce the strain on her joints.

Being the type of person who jumps into everything with both feet, the first hike she wanted to do was an 8-week, 1,000 km section of the Pacific Crest Trail (PCT). After planning and training for a year and a half, she hiked for 6 weeks and achieved 700 kilometers.

Chantal was happy to find that she loved hiking – with the scenery, challenge and occasional solitude – and learned a lot! She returned to the PCT last year for 3 weeks and 350 kms and will return this year for a month and 500 kms. She hiked the West Coast Trail last summer and really enjoyed the difference in the experience from dry California to muddy Vancouver Island.

Instructor Jamie Webb is a third generation Victorian whose grandfather sailed in the famed clipper Thermopylae in the 1890’s. In 1988 Jamie completed a four-year apprenticeship in Rigging and Sailmaking.

For the last 20 years he has worked for the Royal Canadian Navy and is currently their Senior Protocol Officer. Jamie has been a naval reserve officer and instructor with the Sea Cadet programme since 1983.