As an American, Alex Nellie set out on a tour boat for Hot Springs Cove from Tofino – she was checking off a trip she had been dreaming about for years. The American, who said she was “embarrassed” by the U.S. president imposing tariffs on Canada, is one of many that appear to have made the summer of 2025 one for the record books for Vancouver Island. So you know 95 per cent occupancy,” said Brian Cant, president of Tourism Vancouver Island. “All signs are pointing to a really, really strong summer, and hopefully a busy fall as well,” said CantAccording to Tourism Vancouver Island, tourism helps employ 26,000 people on Vancouver Island. With the peak tourism season now behind us, Cant said the cooler weather will also bring lower prices for locals to explore their world famous backyard.