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In 1778 the elusive search for the famed Northwest Passage brought Captain James Cook (HMS Resolution) and Captain George Vancouver (HMS Discovery) to the rugged west coast of Vancouver Island.  The voyage set the stage for great discoveries in science, geography, culture and trade.

In time, Fort Victoria on the southern tip of Vancouver Island was established as a Hudson Bay Company trading post, a home base for explorers and early settlers seeking opportunity in the new frontier.  As gold rush fever swept the continent, the fort became a port, supply base and outfitting centre for miners.  As a gateway to opportunity, the bustling city of Victoria became the provincial capital in 1871.
Today's explorers come to Victoria for opportunities in diverse sectors:
  • Home of the Canadian Pacific Naval Fleet, Canadian Forces Fleet School and naval Officers Training Centre
  • An Up and coming marine and agricultural research centre
  • Information Technology Sector (largest private employer)
  • Educational institutions including the University of Victoria, University Canada West, Camosun College and Royal Roads University
  • A long history of significant government, retirement and tourism industries
  • Hove to the Swiftsure International Yacht race, the premiere yacht race of the Pacific Northwest.