VWP was founded on Voyageur Island, Nym Lake, Ontario, Canada, in 1960 by lecturer, educator and wilderness preservationist Charlie Ericksen and Jean Goff Marantette. The mission continues to be “ecological education through wilderness experience”. This concept is to give youth of today - our future for tomorrow - an appreciation and understanding of wilderness which influences their connection to the planet.

In 1986 Guy Savoie and family, who were dearest friends of the late founders and true descendants of the Metis and French-Canadian Voyageurs, took over the Programme. Inspired by the Savoie family’s proud heritage, the Programme was further developed to highlight the lifestyle and history of the Voyageurs as the first eco-traveler, and the lakes, rivers, waterways and portages they once traveled in this wilderness park. Today, VWP is still family owned and operated - under the direction of Michelle Savoie, with a background for more than 16 years with Manitoba Environment, Canada (compared to the U.S. E.P.A.).

VWP was instrumental in having Quetico’s wilderness receive its special “sensitive area designation” a complete mechanical ban. Over the years, VWP has established an excellent rapport with Ministry of Natural Resources and continues to be in the forefront of ecological practices while assisting in the promotion and maintenance of the Park.