When the fishing industry hit a wall in Prince Rupert, Mike and Almudena Miles had to rethink their commercial fishing business.  They had their boats and knew every inlet, and in 2008 they started Oceanwild, a small company specializing in nature and diving expeditions.  After fishing for many years, the pair realised how few people saw the abundant wildlife common on the north coast.  They wanted to share the bears, birds, sea lions and whales with families and other groups.  "We wanted to keep the groups small," Almudena Miles says, "that way the experience is more intimate."

With Mike's background in fishing, Almudena's training as a biologist and their shared love of diving, developing a tourism-based business felt natural.  They spend each day on the water, doing the things they love.  They've added a floating camp of cabins and bunkhouses for overnight accommodations and multi-day kyaking adventure tours to their list of services.

"We love getting up in the morning and heading to 'work'," says Miles.  "Sharing sea life and nature with other families and small groups is much more than a job - it's a pleasure.  Admittedly we didn't know much about business when we first started, but we followed our instincts and simply did what we love to do," she adds.

And it wouldn't be possible without support in Prince Rupert.  "We have a great, small staff and good relationships with the people who are integral to our business.  We wouldn't be where we are today without their support."

www.oceanwild.ca