Alert Bay

Alert Bay sits on tiny Cormorant Island, home to some of the world’s most significant Indigenous art and culture. The U’mista Cultural Centre houses one of the finest collections of potlatch artifacts anywhere, while the island’s towering totem poles include what was once the world’s tallest at 173 feet.

This remote community of 449 people lives where the salmon runs still dictate the rhythm of life. Commercial fishing, forestry, and government jobs keep the economy running, though like many coastal towns, Alert Bay faces the reality of a shifting resource-based economy. The median household income of $59,200 reflects steady employment in public administration and healthcare, which together employ nearly 40% of the workforce.

The Reality of Island Living

Getting to Alert Bay means a ferry ride from Port McNeill, which either adds charm or creates challenges depending on your perspective. The isolation that preserves the community’s authentic character also limits its appeal to mainstream buyers. With a median age pushing 53 and one-third of residents over 65, this isn’t a growth story—it’s a story about a place that endures.

The housing market reflects these realities. Single-family homes dominate at 77% of all dwellings, but the small population and remote location mean limited liquidity. Properties here appeal to specific buyers: those drawn to Indigenous culture, retirees seeking peace, or investors betting on waterfront scarcity.

Killer whales pass through Johnstone Strait regularly, making Alert Bay a legitimate whale-watching destination. The cultural tourism draws visitors, but the economic base remains narrow. For lenders, that translates to careful evaluation of every deal.

Tekamar lends up to 45% LTV in Alert Bay, recognizing both the community’s cultural significance and the practical challenges of a small, isolated market. When deals make sense here, they’re usually about equity protection rather than growth speculation.