Orest Iwaszko of Alberni Charters, has logged over twenty years running charters.
It’s a lifelong passion that began when he was invited aboard a 35 foot, 1965 trawler for the first time. The boat was warm, with heat, hot water, and cooking facilities – like a floating cottage.
“We stopped to catch crab and tossed it in the pot right on the boat. We were having a crab feast in the salty air with our favorite beverages, and a view to knock your socks off. What a revelation! That trip changed my outlook completely.”
Though he’d just put a deposit down on a sport fishing boat, thoughts of that small boat, bobbing around in the wind, fighting the waves, and having to return to town every night, completely disappeared.
He bought the Oracle and has never looked back.
Alberni Charters now offers a true West Coast fishing experience with comfortable multi-day adventures along the coast of Vancouver Island. Orest tailors every adventure to his guests’ preferences because he firmly believes every trip should be one to remember – just like his first.
He’s a member of the Port Alberni and Ucluelet Chambers of Commerce; the West Coast Charter Association; the recipient of various fishing, business and green hybrid awards; and a member of the Alberni Old Time Fiddlers as back-up guitar player.
Professional Certifications:
- 60 Ton Master Ltd Captain – Transport Canada Certified
- Marine Emergency Duties ( Med 2A First Aid )
- Canadian Power Squadron Restricted Operators Certificate (Maritime)
- Maritime Radio Operator CPS
- Marine Navigation S.O.S
- Power Squadron Certification
- Fire Suppression