Lying on the Pacific coast of Canada, Vancouver Island is the 11th largest island in Canadian province. The island is spread across the length of 460 km (285 miles) and a width up to 80 km (50 miles). It is the largest island on the American western coast and the 42nd largest in the world. It is also the 2nd highest populated island of Canada. The island is named in the honor of George Vancouver, the British Royal Navy officer.


The island is geographically divided between a craggy and pretty wet west coast and the comparatively drier and more plain land of the east coast. The Vancouver Island Ranges are responsible for the running down the division of the land.


The island of Vancouver has been under the rule of many administrations. The Europeans started living on the island from 1774. the rumors about the Russian invasion prompted the Spanish to send their representatives but the mission was never a success. The island came under spotlight after the expedition of Captain James Cook. Captain Cook landed at Nootka Sound of the Island's western shore on March 31, 1778 and exclaimed the island to be a part of the United Kingdom. The visit was followed by the arrival of the British East India Company to exploit the fur trade. The Spanish came after the British and ruled for a while. After then the Canadian took control of the island.


The present day economy of the island is dominated by the forestry industry. Tourism and fishing follows closely after forestry. The vineyards are coming up fast in the island too. The population of the island counts at an estimation of 723,000 in 2005. English is the most spoken language in the island. Victoria, British Columbia, Nanaimo, Port Alberni, Parksville, Courtenay, and Campbell River are the major cities of the island.


Vancouver Island offers loads to explore for those who wants to add that 'extra' into their tour itinerary. For further information about Vancouver Island, you can check out