TESTIMONIALS

We strive to provide all our guests with exceptional service, a great sleep, the right amenities in a spotlessly clean environment. Exceeding your expectations is our number one priority.

Our business is reliant upon 'word of mouth' endorsements and repeat guests. We are proud to receive hundreds of 'thank you's' each year and are pleased to share some of them with you. To read independent reviews of some of our guests experiences at The Buccaneer Inn, visit our listing on the Trip Advisor website!

If you'd like write us with comments on your experience or have a suggestion about a service or amenity you like us to add at The Buccaneer Inn, send us an email. Or tell the world by posting a review at TripAdvisor!

We look forward to welcoming our new guests and to saying 'welcome back' to our many returning guests.

A selection of testimonials from our guests!

"Nice, clean, spacious room. Very comfortable and quiet. Feels like home!"
Kiing's, Vancouver, February 16, 2006

"Perfect!"
Herman's, San Francisco, February 5, 2006

"Many thanks for a most enjoyable stay at The Buccaneer. The accommodation was great and comfortable and was well equipped. Your hospitality was greatly appreciated, we were made very welcome and you proved very helpful! Many thanks!"
The Heard's, UK, January 27, 2006

"Your room (the Fireplace Suite) out does many 5 star hotels I have stayed in! Thanks very much for all you've done to make us welcome. We'll come again for sure."
Dave & Sarah, UK, January 27, 2006

"Comfiest beds in the world. Spotlessly clean. Coming here is like coming home. This is our third visit! Thanks for your great hotel."
The Falconer's, Australia, January 9, 2006

"Also north of downtown, but along the waterfront, the Buccaneer is just three blocks from the ferry terminal and a great value. It's diver friendly and has clean, comfortable rooms and suites most with ocean views."
Lonely Planet Canada, 8th edition, page 791 and also on page 712, 2005 edition.

"Very clean with excellent beds and linens/bedding."
The Neal's, Tsawwassen, BC, December 25, 2005

"What a treat after a long drive! This is a beautiful facility and it is affordable. We are so glad this was a stop on our trip."
The Curtis's, Friday Harbour, WA, December 24, 2005

"We were impressed with the room and amenities and are glad Mike (from Passage Yacht Sales, thanks Mike!) recommended it! It greatly exceeded our expectations!"
The Boyko's, Vancouver, BC, December 19, 2005

"Wow! Best sleep I've had in a year! Awesome!"
Eric Duncan, South Pole Station, Antarctica, November 24, 2005

"My son and I stayed at your wonderful establishment. I have to tell you how impressed I was with the cleanliness of the room, how neat and tidy the entire facility was! I was absolutely elated and will recommend your Inn to all those who may be looking for such accommodation. Congratulations! You have a fine product to offer and should be proud!"
Bill McKay, General Manager, HarbourLynx Ferry, Nanaimo, November 18, 2005

"It was wonderful to have such a cozy room to come back to after a chilly day of diving!"
Brad & Tina, Edmonds, WA, November 10, 2005

"Very nice accommodations with excellent staff!"
The Olson's, Colorado, October 24, 2005

"Thanks for renewing my faith in 'motels'. It's been 8 years since I last stayed in one!"
Mr. Mah, Vancouver, BC, October 11, 2005

"Great place to stay. Superb location. Friendly staff. I don't need to say more except I'll be back in 2006!"
Pete Miller, UK, September 16, 2005

"Really well kept, lovely personal touches in decor, very clean, comfortable and quiet! Better than many average, overpriced hotels we've seen. Perfect!"
Jordan's, Ireland, September 13, 2005

"I love your style. I really makes me feel at home!"
Li Li Su, Richmond, BC, September 13, 2005

"The Buccaneer Inn appears to be a motel from the outside, and your heart may sink for a brief moment if you prefer to stay in 4 star hotels. The Buccaneer Inn obviously was a motel in a previous incarnation. However, even from the outside, you will notice that there is something very different about this hotel (it is clearly no longer a motel in any sense, except that you can drive right up to, or below your room.). It is bedecked with flowers, is painted a clean, sparkling white and enjoys an enviable location overlooking a beautiful little harbor that will have you sighing, “Oh, Canada”. We stayed in the King Bed Oceanview Fireplace Suite and had all of the comforts of home, including a kitchen, living room, bedroom and bathroom all of which were decorated very tastefully with a nicely nautical theme that never crossed the line to kitsch. We had a chance to peer into other units, and there was an understated sense of comfort and casual elegance to all those we saw. The view outside our kitchen window was very lovely. While having your Tim Horton coffee (note to fellow Americans: this is high quality Canadian coffee blended and imported from someplace warmer!) you can gaze out at the harbor and to an island that feels so close you can reach out and touch it. When we did, we abandoned our plan to go snorkeling with the seals, and decided to go snuggling with the sea-snakes instead! The living room was provisioned with a nice, large television, a very comfortable sleeper sofa with pillows, a large fireplace, games to play, a desk to work on, and was nicely decorated. How often have you seen crown molding in a “motel”? The kitchen was well equipped, right down to the corkscrew. The bedroom has a dresser, ceiling fan and plenty of closet space and one of the most comfortable beds that I have ever slept in, bar none, with beautiful, crisp, high quality sheets and bedding. A word about cleanliness: this place is spic and span. This place is radically, maybe even ridiculously clean. It is quite clear that the owners, Dave & Marlene are the engine behind the excellence. In anyone else’s hands, this would soon be a motel again in no time. But in their hands, the experience is closer to that of a B & B (without the second B) or, not surprisingly, an Inn with a very kind and attentive concierge. I missed Marlene, but I met Dave. He is a world traveler and is genuinely interested in other people. He enjoys running an Inn, or makes an excellent show of it. He is an expert on his surroundings and can steer you to dive spots, cultural attractions, groceries stores, and pleasant walkways. The Inn is located slightly away from Downtown Nanaimo, but you can walk there along a nice, dedicated pathway, which is what we did. We had some concerns about finding the Inn when we realized that the GPS in our rental car did not cover Nanaimo, however, when we got off the ferry in Departure Bay, we drove for a minute or so and there it was! That brings me to the only downside of my stay. I am a fresh air freak (something I am sure Canada would cure me of!) and noise averse. I found that I could hear the sound of cars rushing by pretty plainly through the kitchen and living room windows. However, there, too, the hoteliers have foreseen the problem and have installed high quality dual pain windows that, when closed, completely block any noise. In any season other than the height of summer, I imagine these would be closed anyway. I should also note that this noise did not travel to the bedroom, which was well off the street. I should also note there is little or no traffic later at night (this is a very small town) and that the Inn was as quiet as a Canadian waterfall in January. As noted by other reviewers, you could hear a pin drop. Excellent soundproofing and a well behaved clientele. I slept the sleep of the dead. As first time travelers to Canada, we had to move on to Victoria, where we stayed at a four star hotel (the new Marriott). We both agreed that the Buccaneer Inn and Nanaimo were much more memorable. We also prefer supporting Canadians, especially lovely families such as this one, than we do large corporate hotels. I mean, for heaven's sake, the Buccaneer Inn recycles! For value, the view, proximity to the ferry, the quiet and the pleasure of meeting Dave, why stay anywhere else? Americans: Get your passports (soon to be required) and go! Ask Dave about his travel bag!
Glen, Oceanside, CA September 7, 2005 from TripAdvsior.com

"After I arrived in Nanaimo, I drove three blocks to the Buccaneer Inn, a cute and diver friendly lodge. There are thirteen rooms total: ten regular suites, two studios, and one large fireplace suite. Each suite features a full kitchenette, and all the rooms have free high speed wireless. If you don’t have your own laptop, they’ll lend you theirs to check your mail! I slept like a log, and not just because I had a good long day of diving, but more so because the bed, with its pillow top and down duvet, was honestly the most comfortable I’ve ever experienced while traveling.

The proprietors, Dave and Marlene, are familiar with the unique needs of diving guests, and have created a secure drying/storage area for gear and suits. When you return from your dives, there is a fresh water rinse, and if you’ve already checked out, they have a shower and fresh towels downstairs so that you can freshen up and enjoy the rest of the day without the salty grit."
Web article, 'Diving in Vancouver', by Christopher Chin on www.deeperblue.net , August 25, 2005

"Very friendly check-in person (Marlene) and exceptionally clean room!
Edward's, Clearwater, BC, August 24, 2005

"If we are ever in Nanaimo again we wouldn't think of staying anywhere else!
Adam's, Vancouver, BC, August 20, 2005

"Dave and Marlene were very helpful and friendly. The kitchen unit was convenient and the overall room is organized extremely well. Greatly exceeded our expectations!"
Thompson's, San Diego, CA, August 20, 2005

"Marlene was great and her advice was superb!"
Whiteside's, Rochester, NY, August 18, 2005

"We had a really good time and will certainly stay here again. You certainly lived up to all your adverts!"
Gorman's, London, UK, August 18, 2005

"We stayed with you for 4-5 days a couple of weeks ago. The beds were divine! We are thinking of buying a new bed, since both Joe and I woke up for the first time in a few years without sore backs!"
Pearson's, Elora, ON, August 17, 2005

"This family-owned jewel is a newly renovated three-star hotel in the heart of Nanaimo. There is a no smoking, no pets are allowed and, as much as possible, detergents and fabric softeners contain no fragrances. Owner Dave Ilyn reports they will be replacing the bedspreads shortly with hypoallergenic duvets." Actually we have both down and hypoallergenic duvets. If you require a down-free duvet, just ask and will gladly accommodate you!
The Essential Guide to Allergic Travel, Allergic Living Magazine, Summer 2005 edition, pg. 20, written by Ilona Kauremszky

"I had very high expectations in advance because of all the reviews I read on tripadvisor.com and you exceeded them. Would thoroughly recommend to others."
Howell's, England, August 16, 2005

"Enjoyed the views and super clean and attractive room!"
Wendell's, Pennsylvania, August 13, 2005

"Quiet, friendly, clean and comfy! Walking distance to downtown on beautiful walkways."
Leatherdale's, Calgary, AB, August 12, 2005

"Greatly exceeded our expectations! Clean rooms and very friendly people!"
Lowe's, Pasco, WA, August 10, 2005

"I was very impressed. We've stayed in some high-end and mid-range hotels but I was very impressed with the hominess of the theme and the exceptional cleanliness of the room overall. I enjoyed the extra touches you provided and the price was so reasonable!"
Grove's, Atwater, CA, July 29, 2005

"Everything was perfect!"
Duell's, Stettler, Alberta, July 28, 2005

"It is just what Lonely Planet said, nice, clean and friendly! Wonderful time!"
Stallmann's, Holland, July 23, 2005

"Very pleasant stay! Quiet area even if close to ferry terminal!"
Bell's, Kingston, ON, July 15, 2005

"We found The Buccaneer Inn to be very pleasant! Room was wonderful and the hotel is in a great location! The room cleanliness and bed comfort greatly exceeded our expectations!"
Saxbury's, Medford, Oregon, July 12, 2005

"Excellent beds for tired bodies!"
Norgren's, Kelowna, BC, July 1, 2005

"Very pleased with the special considerations for divers also the nice little touches: games; books; ocean pictures; upkeep!"
Mear's, Sylvan Lake, AB, July 1, 2005

"We had a great stay. Very good value for money. Room was very clean and well stocked! Staff very helpful and friendly!"
Foley's, Chichester, England, June 26, 2005

"Just wanted to thank you so much, once again, for the wonderful stay in your great Inn. We enjoyed it so much. We had a wonderful drive down Vancouver Island, did the Tim Horton's, stopped in the small town with the wall murals, and even found ourselves a winery "Cherry Point". We had a blast on our way to Victoria......We ended up changing our reservation from the 7Pm to 9PM ferry and had plenty of time to see Victoria and enjoy the scenery of your beautiful island. You both were so helpful, a rare find, these days !"
Ruth G and family, Miami, Florida, June 23, 2005

"We recently stayed at the Buccaneer Inn. I just wanted to tell you how appreciative we were that your place is extremely clean, quiet, and friendly. Dave went the extra mile in talking to us about local activities, restaurants, and sailing. Everything was excellent. Thank you!"
A.P. and J.P., Bellingham, Washington, June 20, 2005

"Most comfortable stay of our whole holiday. Sorry to be leaving!"
A.B. , Amsterdam, Holland, June 19, 2005

"Quiet, well kept, everything we needed for a good week's stay. Very much appreciated your overall personal touch. The Guest Services Directory was A+. Loved the added touch of information sheet on daytrip to Tofino and the use of the Park Pass!"
The Hines, Fredericton, NB, June 18, 2005

"After traveling for 2 weeks (rush, rush, rush), this stay was the most relaxing. We felt right at home, very homey ambiance. Dave and Marlene are wonderful hosts. You greatly exceeded all our expectations and we wouldn't change a thing!"
The Gardana's, Miami, FL, June 17, 2005

"Excellent website! Your place totally exceeded our expectations and we'd stay again!"
Chris , Toronto, June 2, 2005

"Your place is immaculate! Thanks!"
J.W. , Victoria, BC, May 19, 2005

"Thank you Dave and Marlene! Very nice place. Tasteful and the cleanest place I've ever stayed at. Appreciate it!"
Olli, Prince George, BC, May 13, 2005

"Great find! Nice, clean and simple with everything you need. Smart small room design (one of our cozy studios)"
Mr. F., Vancouver, BC, May 12, 2005

"Incredibly impressed. You actually seem to have thought of everything - we'd just be thinking "Oh, we should have brought something or other" and there it would be in the kitchen or living room! I'm telling all my friends about this place."
The E's, Kirkland, WA, May 1, 2005

"Slept like a log!"
The B's, Vancouver, BC, May 1, 2005

"We have been coming to Nanaimo for 5 years now. Always staying at The Hojo. Decided to try something different. WOW! Will come here from now on! The gear rinsing & drying areas were fabulous! Very wonderful & useful benefit to us. Thanks for letting us use your laptop for looking up geo-caches in the area. Had a blast exploring off-the-beaten-path areas of Nanaimo."
The N's, Vancouver, WA, April 30, 2005

"Thanks again for your wonderful service. We really appreciate your attention to detail. This was a special weekend for our family and now it will always have your Inn connected to that memory."
Your loyal customers, The L's, Quadra Island, BC, April 24, 2005

"Friends in Australia suggested we stop here for a rest and we sure are glad we did!"
The Macs, Sydney, Australia, April 16, 2005

"Your baskets of goodies and bathroom accessories are like a B & B. Very thoughtful!"
The K's, Kamloops, BC, March 30, 2005

"We like to come to Nanaimo every month or so to stock up on supplies and this is a great spot to stay at!"
The D's, Tofino, BC, February 24, 2005

"Very well maintained property and good housekeeping. The continual up grades and high maintenance to this property results in the 3 star rating. Keep up the good work!"
Tourism British Columbia and Canada Select Hotel Inspection Report, November 16, 2004.

"The closest motel to Departure Bay terminal welcomes divers to it's comfortable rooms. It has awesome views of Newcastle Island and they'll be more than happy to help you arrange any activities in the area."
Lonely Planet British Columbia, 2004 edition, page 150.

The only motel in Nanaimo listed in the 2004 edition of The Rough Guide to Canada!
Rough Guide to Canada, June 2004 edition, page 864.

"I liked the box of books and games in the room! The maid does a great job of cleaning and she's personable and flexible (our long serving employee, Monique). It is very nice that you provide Jergens hand lotion!"
B.B., Victoria, BC, December 8, 2004

"Great website! My husband and I are considering a move to Nanaimo and I'm trying to gather as much info on it as possible as we are land locked in Alberta and have only once even driven through Nanaimo! It's going to be a big decision for us so thanks for all the great info on your beautiful city!"
V.S., Alberta, December 3, 2004

"I was very impressed with the in-room kitchen!"
November, 22, 2004

"The Buccaneer is always the highlight of our vacations and business trips to Nanaimo."
D.P., November 15, 2004

"We appreciate your environmental consciousness and energy conservation. Thank you."
Neale's, Victoria, B.C., November 8, 2004

"I enjoyed the cleanliness, extra touches and amenities. Obviously a business run with service in mind. Thanks!"
B.D., Victoria, B.C., November 5, 2004

"Wonderful towels and sheets!! Nice touch - food in the room, real creamers and great coffee! I spend 75% of my time on the road and the nice touches in your rooms are awesome! 4 Stars!"
E.S., November 1, 2004

"Excellent room presentation. Feels more like a nice guest room than a hotel room. Will definitely recommend you to others!"
Choquette's, October 12, 2004

"This is one of the nicest motels we have ever stayed in: clean; sweet and very nice management!"
Haas's, September 18, 2004

"We wouldn't change a thing! Our suite was well maintained and decorated with flair and taste. I loved the blue and white seagulls and waves stenciled on the walls, the blues shelves and headboard. Great location, with views and easy access! Thank you very much!"
Duff's, September 17, 2004

"Pleasant and helpful people. Impeccably clean accommodation. We have paid much more for much less elsewhere, excellent value!"
The Smith's, September 6, 2004

"Excellent mini bar selection! Great rooms, very clean and well maintained. Very quiet most of the time and overall an enjoyable stay. We will recommend you to our friends and family!"
Ralph and Terri, Liverpool, England, August 15, 2004

"Had a great day and a half in Nanaimo. The Inn owners were great. Very helpful. Made our stay at the Inn like visiting friends.Room was immaculate! Towels were super soft & thick! Wonderful! Snorkeling with the seals was great. The mini bar basket is a great idea! Your Guest Services Directory is so informative and helpful. I read it from front to back. It is an awesome resource!!! Good idea! We will surely recommend The Buccaneer Inn to others and when we come back to Nanaimo we will not hesitate to stay here again!"
The Blade's, Drayton Valley, Alberta, August 14, 2004

"Wonderfully clean room. Coffee in the morning was a great touch! Thanks! "
The Wright's, August 13, 2004

"We travel a lot and The Buccaneer is one of the best. We will recommend you to our friends. Your information sheets are very helpful. The Dinghy Dock pub was great! Thanks for the friendly welcome. If we come again to the Vancouver area we will come to you!"
The Powell's, Kent England, July 26, 2004

"Very clean and nicely decorated. Great supplies in the room like real cream, real wine glasses and dish cloths. Nice to have the BBQ deck for family get together's. Wouldn't change a thing, you've thought of all the nice touches!"
The O'Brien's, July 22, 2004

"We wouldn't change a thing, you've done a great job! We felt right at home! The room was cozy and decorated to make us feel right at home. Dave helped us settle in and then found things to do and places to go. It was a wonderful experience and we will DEFINITELY be back! The beds were to die for!"
The S. family , July 21, 2004

"Thank you for the great room, clean, clean space and the exceptional personal service!"
K.F. and family , July 11, 2004

"It is obvious that you have put a lot of effort into your hotel. I don't know if I would do anything differently! Your in-room directory was very informative. The seafood restaurant you recommended was great. Thanks!"
The M's, July 4, 2004

"Amazingly cute. Such a nice change from the standard hotel. Really captures the feel of the coast! We would come back anytime. Thanks for the great hospitality and the great feeling of comfort!"
J.G., July 3, 2004

"This is a little gem - immaculately clean, well maintained, quiet and comfortable. Definitely a place to 'come back to'!"
The S's, June 16, 2004

"Thank you. I felt welcome and safe. Room and services best value in Canada so far. Obviously well run family business. I would stay here again and I'd recommend your motel as a great place to stay. Lovely decor, couldn't have asked for anything more! All the best. ps. Copy of local paper - great idea"
L.S., New South Wales, Australia, May 12, 2004

"Your Guest Services Book is outstanding! We really enjoyed our stay."
J. & B., May 8, 2004

"We have allergies so we value good housekeeping. Very clean. We were able to breathe! Beds were excellent. We must commend your staff member (Marlene) who checked us in. She was a gracious hostess and answered our questions knowledgeably"
A.C., April 30, 2004

"Clean, quiet, very nice looking. Fireplace was excellent. We'll be seeing you next time we are up. Your pride in The Buccaneer shows inside and out!"
B.M., Mountain Retreat Hotel & Suites, Squamish, BC, April 25, 2004

"We l loved the view! Supper at the Lighthouse Bistro was great. Very nice, clean hotel. Thanks!"
P.K., April 8, 2004

"Best place to stay in Nanaimo! The decaf coffee was wonderful surprise. I will always stay here when in Nanaimo!"
P.B., April 2, 2004

"Great little motel! I was here years ago and you've made big changes, for the better, since then. Fantastic hosts! Great job!"
J., March 30, 2004

"We have never stayed in such a clean motel and I've worked in two myself. You could hear a pin drop at night. Keep up the great work!"
The C's, March 28, 2004

"This is a great place! We have already recommended you to friends!"
B & R, Nova Scotia, March 26, 2004

"A little gem of a motel! I'll come again - THANKS!"
C.M., Sechelt, March 21, 2004

"Definitely a recommendation to friends and family!!!"
B.L. March 10, 2004

"Really appreciated the free wireless network, it was a very pleasant surprise and allowed us to post our holiday pictures on the web for our family to see!"
F.T. , New Zealand, March 10, 2004

"Greeted with friendliness. Room was larger than expected. Everything was clean. Rate was reasonable. Handy location. Pleasant setting across from island!"
A.K. February 22, 2004

"We got a friendly welcome at 11 pm from Merle (our outstanding relief manager) which was appreciated after 34 hours traveling from New Zealand. Very friendly people in Nanaimo. Thanks!"
The B's, February 28, 2004

"Very good, clean and good upgrades!"
D.B. February 11, 2004

"We commend you for cleanliness, comfy mattress, nice showerhead, Guest Services Directory and plants for the homey look!"
J.H., December 28, 2003

"One of the finest motels I have ever stayed in. Very cozy and better than home!"
G. S., November 19, 2003

"Had only 1 complaint about your hotel... The beds were so comfy, we overslept and missed our ferry! You spoiled us for the other hotels--as we continued our trip, we kept saying "yes, but this bed isn't as good as that one at the Buccaneer!" Well done--and thanks!"
The K's, Corvallis, OR, October 11, 2003

"The room was very clean and felt fresh. We loved the live plants which made it feel homey! The fireplace was lovely. Thanks so much for a great room!"
The L's, October 18, 2003

We wanted to let you know that we could tell you care about your business and keeping your customers happy. As advertised, the rooms were spotless. I didn't sleep well last night and told my husband this morning that I wish I could sleep like I did at The Buccaneer. I guess it was due to the mattress on the bed, or perhaps the fresh air. Whatever it was, we want to compliment you on the way you run your Inn and it's upkeep.

Also, wanted to thank you for the great directions to Chemainus. We didn't make one wrong turn and the views were fantastic, just as you said. We wish you continued success in your business, as you deserve it.
B. & J. S., September 21, 2003

We just wanted to take a moment to say thank you for being the best hosts that we have ever encountered when traveling. We were having one of our worst days ever when you greeted us with a smile and handled all our requests.

Above and beyond very clean rooms, good service, a great attitude, and being a diver friendly motel, you folks are simply the best place to stay when you’re visiting or diving in Nanaimo. We'll be back to stay with you on every visit to Nanaimo. Thanks for everything, you folks are the best!
R. & N E., Portland, OR, September 16, 2003

"Great water pressure, great rooms, great diver friendly hotel!"
Underwater Works, Portland OR, September 14, 2003

"Just want to tell you that we really enjoyed our stay in beautiful Nanaimo and in your clean and comfortable motel. Your service and hospitality were great. We will be back for next year’s Harbour City marathon and will tell others about you."
J. & L. C., September 10, 2003

"We had two nice surprises here: real cream for our Tim Horton's coffee and free local calls. Loved sitting on the balcony and watching the evening go by!"
The L's, September 8, 2003

"A bouquet to Dave and Marlene of The Buccaneer Inn for their lovely gardens. That area of Stewart Avenue has never looked so good. Keep up the good work!"
Business Bouquet published in Nanaimo News Bulletin, September 4, 2003

"It was just perfect and lived up to our guidebook's recommendation!"
L. & L., September 3 , 2003

"We want to thank you for such a clean place and a very very comfortable bed!"
The M's, August 21, 2003

"Great place: very comfortable; quiet and clean. Convenient location!"
The K's, August 14, 2003

"We had a great time at The Buccaneer! It was very clean and extremely nice. We found the owners to be very friendly and helpful!"
The L's, August 7, 2003

"You're doing an excellent job, congratulations! I loved meeting Christopher! A 5 star place!"
V. R. , Victoria, July 23, 2003

"We'd like every hotel to be like The Buccaneer!"
The H's, Holland, July 10, 2003

"The Fireplace Suite was lovely - well worth the money! Friendly reception and very helpful hosts."
A. & S., London England, , June 30, 2003

"This is the best experience I've had in a hotel and I've been to many! It's perfect, I'll recommend you to my friends."
L. B. , 87 years old, Merritt, June 17, 2003

"Great place, friendly hosts, sparkling clean!"
Happy Divers Den, Mississauga, June 3, 2003

"You have a beautiful hotel. Wish we were staying longer. The rooms make you feel relaxed and pampered. No-smoking policy is great. Your in-room guide book is great!"
The M's, May 15, 2003

"We are sorry that this is our last night on Vancouver Island and that we did not find you earlier!!! We are very lucky to be your 'personal guests' and you can be sure that we will be back next year and then for a longer time to work out your 'tips' about Nanaimo (these infos you will never find in a guidebook!). Everything in your rooms is perfect and your familiar atmosphere is very fine. Thanks for your kindness and see you next year!"
A. & E., Germany, May 13, 2003

"THIS PLACE IS GREAT! We enjoyed our room and Dave was very informative, the info helped us plan our days. We give The Buccaneer a 10 out o 10! A real cool place to stay"
D. & N., Nova Scotia, April 7, 2003

"We have been staying at Days Inn and Travelodge's across North America and we think you have them beat by far! Your kitchen was well equipped: a nice change! We really enjoyed our stay here and shall return. By the way it was nice to drink wine from a real wine glass!"
The S' s, November 12, 2002

"We had a much better experience at The Buccaneer Inn than our last stay at a Nanaimo waterfront hotel! Keep up the good work. We'll be back!"
The P's, March, 2003, (former motel owners), Okanagan Valley, BC

'Perfect Housekeeping!"
Tourism British Columbia, 2002

"We can't think of a single thing you could do differently - you have provided every detail & we feel at home, in fact we don't want to leave!"
Revenue Canada employee, November, 2002

"Just a few words to let you all know that we really enjoyed our lodging here: very nice and clean. Your staff are extremely helpful!"
Z. V., August, 2002
Manager, Marriott Hotel, Washington, DC

"Just wanted to say, thanks again for your superb hospitality and setting up the diving/snorkeling for the girls. It's so nice to know there are caring and helpful people out there. I especially liked the fact that you care enough to recycle!"
W. P., July 18, 2002

"Just wanted to say thank you for a very pleasant stay at your place. Just let me say you've done it the way it should be done, and seldom is. It was SUCH as pleasure to be comfortable, feel clean and not feel ripped off. All the little extras show and were appreciated. Thanks!"
L. M., July 1, 2002

"On an island of overpriced accommodation ...The Buccaneer Inn... stands out as being excellent value. Across from the waterfront and within easy walking distance of downtown and the Departure Bay ferry terminal, is the two-story Buccaneer Inn ... The motel is surrounded by well-maintained grounds, a sundeck, picnic tables, and a barbecue facility. The rooms themselves are spacious and brightly decorated, and each holds a desk, coffee-making facilities and a small fridge ... Friendly owner/operators are a wealth of information on the local area (as is the motel website).

"These businesses do not pay for inclusion in my books, nor they are listed below in exchange for links to this website. They are detailed simply because in my unbiased opinion they offer the very best value your traveling dollar can buy."

Check out the website of travel writer Andrew Hempstead, author of guidebooks to British Columbia, Vancouver, Alberta, the Canadian Rockies, NWT, and Nunavut.
Andrew Hempstead, Author, Moon Handbooks: British Columbia, 2002. 

Thanks for providing everything so spic n' span. It was a pleasure to be here! Our only improvement would be to provide more Buccaneer Inns!
The H's, May 18, 2002

"You offer incredible service & hospitality. The popularity of your accommodation reflects that."
S.S., April, 2002

"I had a great stay at the Buccaneer Inn.  I felt right at home in this one bedroom apartment style suite.  The suite was super clean and cozy and much bigger than any hotel room I've stayed in before.  The separate bedroom, living room, and kitchen with full sized appliances made it feel like home and didn't give me that cooped up feeling that one room hotel suites give me.  The renovations are recent which adds to the charm and comfort.  The suite was a great value! Thank you!"
L.N.S., West Vancouver, BC, February 2002

"My business conducts group SCUBA diving travel all over the world. We travel to the South Pacific, The Caribbean, and many other exotic destinations, as well as trips throughout the Pacific Northwest, including Washington and British Columbia. Of all the destinations we travel and lead trips, my favourite for groups is Nanaimo. Dave and Marlene always offer a comfortable easy overnight stay with no hassles. And at a great price!"
Craig Willemsen, President, Silent World Diving Systems, Bellevue, WA, October 2001.

"Thank You!" This is a very nice place!
The Roy's, August 2001

"The nicest place we have stayed on this trip! Feels just like home!"
The B's August 2001

Your site is great! I have thoroughly checked it out &  found it extremely helpful. I like the friendly tone of it!
D. R., April 2001

Marlene was so nice, friendly and helpful on the phone when she took our reservation. It just feels like being at home! We just hate having to leave!"
The S's, February, 2001

"Great Housekeeping" (again)! 
Tourism British Columbia Hotel Inspector, July 2000.

"Owner has done a marvelous job of renovating since bought 2 years ago. Housekeeping is great. Our compliments!"
Tourism British Columbia Hotel Inspector, 1998.

"Across from the waterfront and within easy walking distance of downtown and the Departure Bay ferry terminal is the 2 storey Buccaneer Inn, which has been renovated inside and out. Each unit has a separate bedroom and is clean, comfortable and very well priced!"
British Columbia Handbook, Moon Travel Publications, pgs. 137 & 138, 2000.

"My wife and I really enjoyed our stay at The Buccaneer Inn this past weekend. You both went out of your way to make for a wonderful experience, from providing drying space/racks for all the wet dive gear, to recommending some great food (and the wasabi) at the Grotto! We even enjoyed the welcome sign you put up for Capital Divers from Olympia.

I recently returned from a trip to San Francisco. I stayed at the Hyatt Embarcadero where the rooms were $325 (US no less) per night. I have to tell you that your place is much, much cleaner, more comfortable and far more relaxing than the over-priced Hyatt!  You should congratulate yourselves for doing such a great job. We'll be back soon, and we'll bring our friends!"
S. B. Olympia Washington, September 2000

"You folks were just wonderful - the suite was so comfortable, so clean, so well cared for. The information you had for us on things to see and do as well as the information you gave us when we checked in - it was all just wonderful!! Your warm genuine hospitality made a tremendous difference to our trip; we really felt welcomed! Thank you so much - next time we are up your way, we plan to skip Victoria and go straight to Nanaimo ... and we couldn't imagine staying anywhere else!"
C. & D., Berkeley, California, September 29, 2000.

"Had a very pleasant stay. Definitely a place to recommend!"
J. C., United Nations, Geneva, September, 2000.

"What a wonderful surprise the Buccaneer Inn was after a long day. We called from the ferry to make reservations, fortunately they had one! A lot of love and care obviously goes into the care of this place of respite. I highly recommend this oasis of rest.
J. A., August 11, 2000, St. Louis, Mo.

"Lovely place and great staff. Had an excellent time. Thanks for the fishing tip. It was a dream of mine to catch a salmon in British Columbia and what a beaut she was!"
J., Melbourne, Australia, July 2000.

"I am adding your property to our listings based on our inspection and favourable reports from our readers."
Lonely Planet, 1999.

"Thanks for all your hints Dave! They were really helpful!"
F., Munich, 2000

We even get compliments about our Guest Directory!
"You did an excellent job of your Guest Directory. Enjoyed reading it. Very Informative!
L. D., August 2000

"We really enjoyed our stay at your Inn. It was a very relaxing and quiet weekend. I hope you will continue to provide the same service for years to come!"
H. & M., 2000

"The best service we have had in 2 weeks on the road. Feel we got very good value in a clean, bright unit. Owners walked the extra mile to attend to our needs."
J. M., New Zealand, September 1999

"We really enjoyed our stay at The Buccaneer! ... It was so convenient for the ferry, and we also liked the way you have remodeled everything. I am doing the same in my house, so I appreciate the hard work it takes! I just wanted to compliment you on everything. It was lovely!"
M. N., July 1999

Your motel is lovely, clean and cozy. Wonderful water pressure in shower too!! We look forward to staying again and will recommend you to everyone!"
K. & P., April 1999

"There is one shining star amidst the hotel scene and that is the Buccaneer Inn.... They feature complimentary tea or coffee, give personal information on all of the island's attractions ... AND the rates are BELOW the main downtown accommodations. When visiting the Island, this is a gem of an inn on a quiet street."
Jim Warnke, AAA Travel Writer, 1998.

"The Buccaneer has ocean views and it's only 3 blocks from the BC Ferries Terminal at Departure Bay. The rooms are cheery and bright and offer fully stocked kitchenettes. Guests have access to barbeques and picnic tables, and the motel's management is quite accommodating."
Northwest Budget Traveler, edited by Nancy Leson, 1998, pg.243.

The only accommodation in Nanaimo recommended by Dumont Reise-Taschenbuch 'British Columbia', 1998 page 111.

"Across from the waterfront and within easy walking distance of downtown, the Departure Bay Ferry Terminal ... is the Buccaneer Motel ... The rooms are ... clean, comfortable and very well priced."
B.C. Handbook, Moon Publications, 1998, pg. 124.

"We have stayed in motels from Ontario to here. This is the best one yet. Compliments to management and staff."
The L's, 1998

"I just wanted to tell you how much my friend and I appreciated the services of The Buccaneer Motel this past weekend as we did some of the best diving available. The accommodations were the best I have ever experienced in BC with your spacious rooms, plenty of hot water, the secure scuba room, and the rinse station. Perhaps the nicest touch was the chance to take a hot shower after checkout and before we had to drive back to Seattle. You and your wife really impressed upon us the quality of your services and we intend to come up again."
T.S., 1998

*names have been removed or initialized to comply with federal and provincial privacy legislation except where the testimonial is from a public or published source or we have received express consent.