You can arrive by car, West Coast Trail bus (subject to season), boat, or air. Please see our How to Get Here Page for more details.

Each Building (including accommodations) on campus is equipped with wireless internet. You may use the BMSC Guest WiFi.

We do also have a back–up generator to provide power during potential power outages.

The Bamfield Health Centre is located at 353 Bamfield Road.

Regular business hours: Monday to Friday 9am – 5pm. Phone: 250-728-3312 (Nurse also on-call 24-hrs)

The nurse sometimes leaves the Centre to make house calls or deliveries, therefore it is recommended that you call ahead from BMSC before going to the Health Centre, even during Business Hours. Also, note that there is no cell phone service directly outside of the Health Clinic. The closest cell phone service spot is just South of the Centre at the top of the hill on Bamfield Rd (above the hotel/pub).

The village of Bamfield is also on the 911 system. 911 dispatch can task the appropriate assistance in any emergency. It is important to note that the nearest hospital is in Port Alberni.

https://www.islandhealth.ca/our-locations/hospitals-health-centre-locations/bamfield-health-centre

We offer practical and comfortable accommodations for guests at our station. Accomodations are not open to booking by the public. Accomodations do vary and are subject to availability.

See details about accommodations here.

Please see our accommodations page and check your assigned accommodation sections to see what is included.

Kitchens in cabins and Seaside dorms are fully equipped with fridge, stove, microwave, and coffee makers. Additionally, utensils, pots, pans, glassware etc are all provided. You may also choose to eat in the cafeteria – ask us about rates.

Meal hours are normally:

Breakfast: 7:30 – 8:00 am

Lunch: 12:30-1:00 pm

Dinner: 6:00-6:30 pm

During peak activity: on Saturday and Sundays brunch and dinner are available. Brunch is from 10-11 and dinner remains from 6:00-6:30 pm.

Please note that during non-peak activity the cafeteria may occasionally be closed. Please check the food services page or ask your BMSC contact person if you have questions. 

Find out more about BMSC’s Food Services here.

The kitchen is equipped to accommodate many dietary needs and allergies.

We ask you to indicate dietary requirements as soon as possible to the kitchen and/or your point of contact at the BMSC (whether that is university programs, field trips, or research for example).

The BMSC dining hall is a peanut-free facility and we are able to accommodate vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, and dairy-free meal options.

For more information check out  BMSC Food Services.

Yes, the BMSC library catalogue is online at bamfieldmsc.com/resource/library. The library has an extensive collection of marine and coastal science books, as well as past student reports, journals, and over 18,000 reprints.  Students and researchers also have online access to journals via their home university.

Local

There are two grocery stores: The Market (east Bamfield) and the Bamfield Mercantile and Marine, (west Bamfield – boat access only) – both carry a small range of convenience items including dairy, frozen, produce, confectionery, and toiletries. Both are also authorized BC Liquor outlets.

There is a building supply and home hardware store (some rain gear), a marine supply store (some rain/camping gear – they also patch flat tires!), 1 automobile gas bar (Ostroms. Hours vary, so please call ahead of time. (250) 728-3231), 2 marine gas stations, 2 campgrounds, 2 community parks, various restaurants (some open only seasonally), and several B&B’s.

There are no banks in Bamfield. There is an ATM at The Market and some businesses offer cash back.

Check out the Bamfield Chamber of Commerce for more details about businesses in Bamfield.

Groceries can also be purchased from Save-on in Port Alberni, which will be delivered to Bamfield via the Francis Barkley. 

Step One: set up an invoicing account with the Lady Rose Marine Services (ferry delivery for your groceries) via phone. Check here: https://ladyrosemarine.com/contacts and phone them to set up a method of payment for the delivery in advance (this only needs to be done once). You should also check their schedule or if there are any announcements on their webpage before making orders. They typically come out Tuesdays, Thursday and Saturdays and delivers packages to the Bamfield west government dock at around noon and the East Government dock (near the Hacas Inn) at around 12:30. 

Step Two: order the groceries from Port Alberni Save-on Foods location and when checking out choose delivery. Choose a delivery time on a Monday, Wednesday or Friday afternoon from 2:00-4:00 pm from their options (so that it’s prior to the ferry delivery day). They will deliver the groceries to Lady Rose Marine services in the specified time and the boxes will be put in appropriate places (freezer, fridge or room temp storage) until the next morning when they leave early to come to Bamfield with the delivery. 

For delivery information put down: 

Your Name c/o Lady Rose Marine Services Ship to Bamfield, East Dock

5425 Argyle Port Alberni, BC V9Y 7M7 Phone :250-723-8313 

Step Three: Be at the east government dock at 12:30 to wait for the boat and receive your boxes. Sometimes the boat is a little later than that. In worst case scenarios, if you aren’t there – they put your boxes in the shed on the dock and you can just check in there afterwards for boxes with your name on it. 

Call Save-on Foods or Lady Rose Marine services with any questions or to confirm anything if you are unsure what to do. They are excellent and very used to answering questions about Bamfield deliveries. 

You can purchase stamps and send mail via the Main Office at BMSC.

Mail arrives three times a week (Monday, Tuesday, and Thursday) on the Francis Barkley. It will be sorted alphabetically and placed into communal boxes outside the main office by 5:00 pm.

Mail can be addressed to:

Your Name
C/O BMSC
Box 100 Pachena Road
Bamfield, BC
V0R 1B0

Letters can be mailed at any time in the mail slot outside the office door. Stamps are available from the office.  There is a post office next to the store in West Bamfield.

Visit our souvenir store here 

Or drop in to the lobby of the main building in person to check it out! We likely have more selection than what is currently up on the website!

You will need to complete a rowboat orientation before you can operate BMSC rowboats. The rowboat orientation and policy document provides further information and can be downloaded for reference in your orientation.

*Please contact your BMSC department contact (university programs, research, etc.) to book this orientation. 

Bamfield is a picturesque and remote coastal community on Vancouver Island, known for its natural beauty and outdoor activities. While some of its attractions are well-known, there are still some hidden gems and local secret spots to find. Always be respectful of the environment and local communities. Here are a few local spots in Bamfield (you’ll have to find the secret ones yourself):

1. Bamfield Boardwalk: The Bamfield Boardwalk offers a quiet and tranquil way to explore the town’s waterfront. It’s a peaceful stroll with beautiful views, especially during sunrise and sunset.
2. Pachena Bay: Located a short drive from Bamfield, Pachena Beach is a sight to behold! Pachena Bay Campground offers campsites right by the beach. It’s a quieter alternative to some of the more popular campgrounds in the region.
3. Hidden Coves: Explore the coastline around Bamfield to discover hidden coves and inlets that offer seclusion and stunning views. Some of these may only be accessible by boat or kayak.
4. Boomer Trail: Start at the gravel lot across the street from Grappler boat launch and enjoy a peaceful walk and perhaps spot local wildlife like birds and deer. Find other local hikes with AllTrails!
5. Local Cafes and restaurants: There are some great options for local cuisine and baked goods. Check the Bamfield Chamber of Commerce link here to explore some of the options in town! Do know that various restaurants are only open seasonally. 
6. Artisan Workshops: Look for local artisans and crafters who may have hidden workshops and galleries where you can view and purchase their creations.
7. Tide Pools: While tide pooling is a common activity, ask locals for advice on lesser-known tide pool locations where you can discover unique marine life.
8. Star Gazing: Bamfield’s remote location makes it an excellent spot for stargazing. Find a quiet spot away from town lights and enjoy the night sky.
9. There are great spots around for kayaking and Canoeing, surfing, and biking!
10. VArious options exist for fishing Charters, Boat tours and wildlife viewing!
11. Many more! Need some more ideas, suggestions, or help? Let us know

Remember that part of the charm of these hidden spots is their pristine and untouched nature, so always practice Leave No Trace principles to help preserve these areas for future generations. Additionally, local residents and businesses can often provide insider tips on less-known attractions, so don’t hesitate to strike up a conversation and ask for recommendations when you visit Bamfield.

There are often weekly soccer, indoor hockey, basketball and volleyball games organized in the evenings, so bring cleats and kneepads if you have them.  Ask locals and BMSC staff for details on these events. There are many roads, trails and beaches for hiking running and biking.  There are also rowboats to sign out at BMSC for recreation.

Check the BCSA website for community fitness activities here.

Bike, Canoe, Kayak and other recreational gear rentals can be found here.

Pets are not permitted on BMSC property.

The policies page can be found here. 

The marine environment near BMSC can sometimes be cold and wet and is always unpredictable.  Consider bringing good quality, waterproof, rubber boots, heavy-duty rain gear (pants and jacket), backpack, flashlight/headlamp, and warm clothing. Close-toed footwear is required in labs and on boats. You can purchase limited rain gear and boots locally at Bamfield Builders Supply, Breakers Marine, or Bamfield Mercantile & Marine.  There are also boots available for borrow, but it is highly recommended to bring your own (so that you are certain they fit and won’t leak).

For details on what is provided based on your assigned accommodations, see the accommodation page here. 

Please visit our staff directory here.

When in doubt, contact us at info(at)bamfieldmsc.com  or call the front desk at (250) 728 3301 and we will get you in touch with the right person.

BMSC has implemented a scent-free workplace environment. Exposure to scented products can adversely affect a person’s health. In high concentrations, scented products may trigger a negative response for those with allergies or chemical sensitivities. Students and visitors are asked to be considerate in their use of products such as perfume, makeup, shampoo, deodorant, etc. or from other products such as air fresheners, cleaners, etc.

To operate the 14ft vessels at BMSC, Transport Canada requires the operator to have at a minimum a valid Pleasure Craft Operators Card (PCOC) and a valid Marine Basic First Aid, or any 2-day (minimum 16 hr) First Aid + CPR-C course recognized in provinces or territories. ‘In-person’ or ‘blended’ courses that meet the above criteria are acceptable.

Boat checkouts and safety training by BMSC foreshore staff are also required prior to the start of your course.

“Foreign boaters” should link to Transport Canada Visitor Information

Click here for details

*Please contact your BMSC department contact if you would like to book a check-out

STUDENTS:
Students are not required to operate power boats if they don’t want to. Further, some courses do not involve the use of power boats. However, for many courses it is recommended that students obtain a PCOC and appropriate first aid training so they can operate boats. When they arrive at BMSC, every student in possession of a PCOC (or higher marine safety training) and an 2-day First Aid certificate recognized by a province or territory (e.g. Red Cross, St. John’s) is trained to use our power boats, and given the opportunity to practice their skills prior to being given permission to take the boats outside the inlet.

To print documents, please head to the Library of the main building. There is a computer set up underneath the Research Sites Poster directly adjacent to the copy room cubby on the main level (between library and main office).

1. Sign in to that computer using the “BMSC USER” account
2. From there, you can access your document via thumb drive or sign in to email services via the web browser to retrieve it.
3. Print your document to the Ricoh (colour).
4. Retrieve your document from the copy machines in the copy area.

All summer and fall applicants are automatically considered for BMSC scholarships awarded by the Pacific Marine Science Alliance (PMSA) if you apply by the scholarship deadline. We will let you know if you received one with your acceptance notice.

Courses at BMSC are considered the same as courses taken from your university so you may be eligible for financial assistance from your university. Contact the Financial Aid Officer at your institution for more information. Your member university may also have BMSC-specific scholarships.

Read more about available scholarships here!

Fees consist of two parts: 1) Tuition and 2) BMSC fee.

Tuition: must be paid directly to a member university before commencement of a course (just like any course you’ve ever taken at your university). Only non-credit (auditing) students pay tuition to BMSC.

BMSC fee: payable to BMSC, and due in full upon arrival.  The BMSC fee includes the full cost of your room and board, and a user fee. There will be time on the first day of your course to pay fees. BMSC accepts cash, money order, cheque, debit, or credit card. Foreign Students: As BMSC is unable to transact payments in foreign funds or to change foreign traveler’s cheques, please arrange to make all payments in Canadian funds, or pay by Visa, MasterCard, or American Express.

Example cost breakdown of BMSC Fees for student loan and scholarship applications: Summer 2023

If you attend one of the five member universities (University of Victoria, University of British Columbia, Simon Fraser University, University of Alberta, and University of Calgary) courses taken at BMSC will count as upper-level credits. Be sure to check the course codes for how they can apply to your degree. If you still have questions speak with an academic advisor and/or email us at university(at)bamfieldmsc.com. 

UBCO students must use the UBC Cross Campus registration process for UBC Vancouver offerings, or must obtain a letter of permission for non-UBC courses. (Exceptions exist).

Depending on your home university, credit can be received from BMSC courses. UBCO students must use the UBC Cross Campus registration process for UBC Vancouver offerings, or must obtain a letter of permission for non-UBC courses (exceptions exist).

Credit transfers are the student’s responsibility and should be worked out with the home university prior to coming to Bamfield. Specific questions about credit transfer can be directed to the University Programs Coordinator. Non-member students receive transfer credit from the University of Victoria.

Students must request a transcript be sent from UVic from your home university.

Instructions on how to apply to BMSC as a non-member university student can be found here: How to Apply

You can contact the UP coordinators at university(at)bamfieldmsc.com

In the Summer, each six-week or four-week long immersion course carries credit equivalent to a two-semester university course, while each three-week or two-week long course carries credit equivalent to a one-semester university course.

Students may take as many courses as they like, but only one course at a time. Courses are an intense immersion experience, running from Monday to Friday (and occasionally on Saturdays), 8 hours on average per day.

In the Fall, the fifteen week Fall Program in Marine Science consists of five courses which, taken together, equal a full semester of courses.

See table below for equivalent number of units.

Yes, non-member students are encouraged to take courses at BMSC. Non-member students who wish to take BMSC courses for credit must apply as a Visiting Student at the University of Victoria.

Instructions on how to apply to BMSC as a non-member university student can be found here: How to Apply

Your home institution may have an exchange program with one of five member universities, be sure to check with your home institution advisor.

Applications are not ranked first come first serve but on their individual merits.  The selection of students is based on a combination of GPA, prerequisites, letter of interest, and also depends upon the pool of the applicants.

We also give preference to those students that are currently in their 3rd and 4th year of study.

YES. The Education Testing Center has agreed BMSC can be a test site.

We apologize if you have been wait-listed for a course(s). BMSC has small class sizes (usually max. 22) which sometimes require a waitlist. We would like to note that many students are accepted for courses from the waitlist each spring. It can happen any time before the course begins but the most likely time to be accepted is in early April (after the deposit deadline).

Unfortunately, we are unable to release information on your position (#) in the waitlist. If you are accepted for your alternate choice course and wait-listed for your first choice course, your course deposit can later be transferred between those courses (if you are later moved from the waitlist to accepted for your first choice course).

You must confirm your intention to attend BMSC by making a deposit, toward your BMSC fee. If we do not receive your deposit(s) by the deadline date (to be communicated to you with your acceptance notice), your place may be given to student on the waitlist. If you plan not to accept one or more courses, please let us know as early as possible so another waitlisted student can be given the opportunity.

Course deposits are not refundable. However, a course deposit may be transferred in some cases – please contact the University Program Coordinators for more information (university(at)bamfieldmsc.com)

You may not apply a deposit to a course for which a deposit has already been paid (i.e. deposits paid to two courses may not be applied to a single course fee).

Phone the University Programs office at 250-728-3301 ext 219 to pay your deposit by credit card. Please leave a voicemail if we are not here (i.e. if it is not during business hours). If the voicemail box is full, please try again during or after the next business day. We will send a receipt confirmation by email for the charge once it is processed (2-5 business days).

The deposit counts towards the full course fee. The remainder of the course fee is paid on day one of the course at the main office.

If you wish to drop a course, please notify the University Programs office as soon as possible or at least 3 weeks prior to the start of your course so another student has the opportunity to attend. It is your responsibility to complete the withdrawal process at the university at which you registered.

Please arrive before dinner (6:00 pm) on the Sunday before your course begins (Unless the course begins after a holiday Monday, in which case, arrive on Monday). You will depart BMSC after breakfast on the day following the last day of your course.

If it is necessary for you to arrive early, please contact the University Program Coordinator and we will do our best to accommodate you.

No, unless your instructor asks you to bring something. Course equipment will be provided. Teaching labs are stocked with microscopes, glassware and other basic supplies. Chemicals are stored in the chemical room. Other equipment must be signed out. If you can’t find what you need, please ask your Instructor or TA or the UP staff (e.g., If you need any additional equipment for independent projects). Please notify them as soon as possible because getting specialized supplies in Bamfield can take a long time.

Access to equipment in research areas must be requested through University Programs.

Anything marked “Research” is not for student use. If you need something, please talk to the University Program Coordinator, your Instructor or TA.

Textbooks are listed on the BMSC website under course descriptions (if applicable). Students must order their own books. You may request books be mailed to BMSC (by Canada Post only, no courier service) where they will be held for your arrival. Have books sent to: c/o Your Name, Name of your course Bamfield Marine Sciences Centre Box 100 Pachena Rd. Bamfield, BC V0R 1B0

In general: Students should bring binders, notebooks, paper, pencils and any other items you deem necessary for a typical lab and field based course, and any items specifically requested by your course instructor.

You will be invited to a Slack channel for your cohort via link to your email!

This will help you virtually say hello, plan carpooling, etc. 

After you’ve taken a course, you can join the BMSC Alumni page to stay connected with alumni and get relevant job postings and other notices.

You will use Moodle to access course materials, assignments, lab handouts, etc during your time at BMSC.  We will set you up with an account.  You may receive an email before the course asking to create your account/change your password.  If you do not, you can access your Moodle account by following these steps:

• Access the Moodle site at http://moodle.bamfieldmsc.com/ and select <login> on the top-right corner of the page
• In the login page, select “Forgotten your username or password?”
• Request to reset your password by typing in your email address

Please visit this link for Animal Use Protocols and this link for all permitting requirements well in advance of your visit.

*It is important to ensure that the University Program Coordinators and Animal Care are aware of your permitting requests

Instructors, TA’s, and the University Programs Coordinator are responsible for student safety. A First Aid certificate (any 16 hour, Standard first aid with CPR-C) is recommended for course Instructors and is required by all TA’s. The course instructor must have First Aid if there is no TA for the course. Please provide the UPC a copy of your First Aid certificate for your personnel file.

*Please provide the University Program Coordinators with a copy of your first aid certificate and any other relevant certifications for your personnel file.

Lunches are now included for Instructors and TA’s.

If you would like to eat breakfast and/or dinner in the cafeteria occasionally, you must notify the kitchen in advance by emailing Vezir at vsultanov@bamfieldmsc.com. Please try to do so with as much notice as possible.

If you did not sign-up in advance, but would like to eat in the cafeteria, you can do so if there is food left-over ½ hour into the meal.

To pay for individual meals (breakfast and dinner), you can buy meal tickets in the front office and drop them, signed and dated, in the drop box in the kitchen.

Nanaimo and Comox are the two closest airports to BMSC – both are approximately 4 hours away. Some groups opt to fly to Victoria instead, often adding a day of educational activities there in addition to their visit to the BMSC.

Field trip costs for Fall 2025 and Spring 2026 can be estimated at approximately $285 per person, per night. You can email us at fieldtrips(at)bamfieldmsc.com to request a more detailed cost calculator document showing a breakdown of rates for lab use, boat fees, accommodations, and meal

We do not currently offer workshops for individual teachers, however, we have provided teacher workshops in the past when groups have approached us with more than 10 persons interested.

First and foremost, it is recommended to get in touch with the Head of Research Services (250-728-3301 x 255) or the Research Coordinator (x 259) to have a conversation about your research needs and get your questions answered well in advance of your stay. Please give us a call anytime between Mon-Fri 8:30 to 4:30 to chat or email research@bamfieldmsc.com and research.coord@bamfieldmsc.com to set up a phone call. 

Preparing for your research visit to the Bamfield Marine Sciences Centre (BMSC) involves careful planning and consideration of various aspects of your stay. Here’s a glance of what you need to know to ensure a successful and productive research experience at BMSC:

Research Proposal and Permits: Ensure your research proposal is well-defined and approved. Familiarize yourself with sampling regulations and best practices. Contact BMSC in advance to discuss your research goals and get advice on obtaining any necessary permits for collecting samples or conducting research in the area (including Animal Use Protocol approvals) for your study. Details are found HERE. **This is the most urgent preparatory requirement since many permits or Animal Use Protocol approvals involve external bodies that require 30 to 90 days for application approvals. If you have questions, give us a call!**

Accommodations: Reserve your accommodations well in advance. BMSC provides on-site accommodations for researchers, but availability may be limited during peak seasons. Instructions on booking accommodation will be provided to you with your successful research application acceptance packet.

Travel Arrangements: Plan your travel to Bamfield, which can be reached by road or by boat. Consider transportation logistics, including ferry schedules if you’re traveling from the mainland. See our transportation FAQ for options outside of driving.

Supplies and Equipment: Prepare a list of the equipment, materials, and supplies you’ll need for your research and then coordinate with us if you require any specialized equipment. BMSC generally has equipment to loan, but recommends you bring your own supplies (e.g. gloves, disposable tips, tape) or any gear that is absolutely essential to your research.

Safety Protocols: BMSC prioritizes safety. Attend any safety orientations or meetings conducted by BMSC staff and adhere to safety guidelines and protocols throughout your stay.

Communication and Data Management: As we are a remote field station, internet access may be limited, so plan for data management and communication accordingly. Consider bringing a mobile hotspot or other communication tools if needed.

Access to Facilities: Familiarize yourself with the research facilities available at BMSC, including laboratories, equipment, and boats. Coordinate access and scheduling with BMSC staff.

Community Engagement: Engage with the local community and respect their environment. Participate in community events or educational outreach opportunities if they align with your research and interests. BMSC often hosts public events, and collaborations with local organizations can enhance your research.

Research Ethics and Regulations: Ensure that your research complies with ethical guidelines and regulations. Familiarize yourself with BMSC’s policies and any applicable ethical review processes.

Local Knowledge: BMSC staff and local residents are valuable resources for information about the area, including field sites, wildlife, and research opportunities. Don’t hesitate to get in touch!

Departure and Checkout: When your research is complete, follow BMSC’s checkout procedures for accommodations, equipment, and resources. Leave your workspace clean and organized.

Downtime and Exploration: Take advantage of your time in Bamfield by exploring the local trails, beaches, and marine environments during your downtime.

Communication and Collaboration: Connect with other researchers and students at BMSC. Collaborative efforts often lead to valuable insights and shared experiences.

By preparing thoroughly and maintaining open communication with BMSC staff and the local community, you can ensure a productive and enriching research experience in Bamfield. Enjoy your time at BMSC, and make the most of the unique opportunities for marine and environmental research in this beautiful coastal setting.

***get in touch with the Head of Research Services (250-728-3301 x 255) or the Research Coordinator (x 259)***

Please visit this link for Animal Use Protocols and this link for all permitting requirements well in advance of your visit.

Yes! 
We offer a spectacular venue for a range of events, from conferences to workshops, retreats, and more! Venue availability is limited, so get in touch with us well in advance!

See our Events section for more details.