Tofino tourism: mayor says community will bounce back

As Tofino struggles in the aftermath of the whale-watching boat tragedy, many are wondering how the accident, which received world-wide attention, will affect the town's most important industrytourism.

Tofino'sresident population is under 2,000, but itcan swell to 22,000 during peak tourist season.

A quick internet search displays ten different localcompaniesoffering whale-watching tours,not to mention other marine excursions including one to the popular Hot Springs Covein MaquinnaProvincial Park, a one hour boat ride away.

All companies suspended tours in the days following the capsizing of the Leviathan II, but many are slowly restarting operations.

Mayor Josie Osborne says the town needs time to heal, but she has no doubt Tofino will bounce back.

"What we are showing the world right now is what an incredibly tight knit community we are," said Osborne.

"Acommunity underneath the tourism and the visitation that we get. And that is part of what brings people toTofino."

Maple Ridge'sDarren and Sue Ashebooked their Tofino honeymoon long before the accident took place. They were atthe city dock to take in the views, but, as tourists themselves, couldn't help but be drawn to the growingmemorial for the victims of the accident.

"We were just saying, you came here for a vacation to this beautiful spot and you lost your life." said SueAshe.

The flags at the Tofino visitors centre are flying athalf staff and a note on the door says the office will be closed until further notice.

An RCMP dive team was back in the waters near the accident siteWednesday morning, searching for the body of an Australian man who remains missing.