Alert Bay, British Columbia

Jul 27

The flag of Alert Bay, British Columbia, is a striking representation of the community’s identity, history, and connection to the natural world. Featuring a blue background with a yellow wavy stripe, edged in black, the flag captures the essence of this coastal village. The central image of two breaching killer whales, accompanied by the words "ALERT BAY" above and "HOME OF THE KILLER WHALE" below, highlights the deep relationship between the town and its surrounding environment. This emblem serves as both a tribute to the marine life that inhabits the region and a reflection of the rich cultural heritage of the people who call Alert Bay home.

Alert Bay is located on Cormorant Island, a crescent-shaped landmass just off the northeast coast of Vancouver Island. Approximately 180 miles by water from Vancouver, the island is small—only three miles long and half a mile wide—yet it holds great historical and cultural significance. Both Alert Bay and Cormorant Island were named after British warships, the H.M.S. Alert and H.M.S. Cormorant, which conducted coastal surveys of British Columbia between 1846 and 1861.

Despite its modest size, Alert Bay has played a significant role in the development of British Columbia’s coastal economy. Originally a fishing village, it has grown into an important center of commerce and services while maintaining its historic charm. The blend of past and present is evident in the town’s architecture, economy, and cultural institutions, which continue to celebrate both Indigenous and settler heritage.

Alert Bay has a population of approximately 1,300, comprising the Village of Alert Bay, the ‘Namgis First Nation, and the Whe-la-la-u and Area Council. The presence of the ‘Namgis First Nation is central to the town’s identity, and Indigenous culture is woven into the fabric of daily life. The community is renowned for its vibrant native art, including carvings, paintings, and metalwork, which can be found throughout the village. Cultural artifacts and historical exhibits are housed in the Alert Bay Library/Museum and the U'mista Cultural Centre, which preserve the rich traditions of the region’s First Nations people.