Two Haida Tourism properties on Haida Gwaii are set to join the international Hyatt hotel network.
Haida Enterprise Corporation (HaiCo) announced Oct. 3 that franchise agreements have been signed for Ocean House at Tlaga Gawtlaas and Haida House at Tllaal to join Unscripted by Hyatt.
Ocean House and Haida House will remain Haida-owned and operated through Haida Tourism, HaiCo’s tourism business. HaiCo said the properties will retain their existing names, identities and character under the new affiliation.
The franchise agreements will give the properties access to Hyatt’s wider reservation and marketing network, along with training and other support. HaiCo said the partnership is intended to introduce the properties to more travellers while allowing them to continue reflecting Haida Gwaii and Haida values.
Unscripted by Hyatt is one of Hyatt’s newer hotel brands. Launched in 2025, it is aimed at independent hotels seeking access to Hyatt’s international network while maintaining their own identity and style.
“This partnership will help more people discover our properties while allowing each property to remain unique and connected to place,” HaiCo said in its announcement.
HaiCo pointed to Spirit Ridge Resort in Osoyoos as an example of another First Nations-owned tourism property with a long-standing Hyatt affiliation, although Spirit Ridge operates under a different Hyatt brand. Spirit Ridge joined The Unbound Collection by Hyatt in December 2017 and became the first Canadian property in that collection. Its Hyatt affiliation has continued for nearly nine years.
HaiCo said there will be no major changes to the usual seasonal operations of Ocean House and Haida House. Haida House Lodge will close this fall as planned, with a limited number of cabins remaining available, while Ocean House will remain open through the winter. HaiCo is also working toward adding dinner service at the Ocean House restaurant this winter.
Improvements and preparations for next season will continue at both properties during the winter.
HaiCo has not yet announced when the two properties will begin operating under the Unscripted by Hyatt affiliation or when they will become available through Hyatt’s booking network. The financial terms of the franchise agreements have not been disclosed.
HaiCo said the partnership is part of its effort to grow Haida-owned tourism businesses, create opportunities for Haida citizens and bring visitors to Haida Gwaii.