For ocean kayakers, Powell River is a world-class experience. Not only does the natural setting feature rugged mountains and glittering ocean waters, but it's also well-sheltered from the elements thanks to the bulk of Vancouver Island and nearby Texada Island. Prefer freshwater kayaking? This coastal community also offers easy access to more than 30 lakes.
Desolation Sound Marine Park
Visitors to Powell River could easily spend weeks kayaking on the Pacific Ocean. The most popular destination is Desolation Sound Marine Park, located near the village of Lund north of Powell River. Sheltered coves and bays abound in this marine park (BC’s largest), encompassing 8,449ha/14,000ac. The abundance of marine life is striking: porpoises, dolphins seals, sea stars, sea cucumbers, and more. Water temperatures are remarkably warm, averaging 22°C/74°F. Desolation Sound has over 60km/37mi of shoreline to explore, and three major anchorages at Prideaux Haven, Grace Harbour, and Tenedo's Bay.
More Sea Kayaking
Another popular option is the Copeland Islands. Designated a provincial marine park in 1971, this archipelago is a great place to kayak along narrow passageways. Watch for bald eagles and loons fishing by day, or goggle at bioluminescence during a moonlight paddle.
With its white sand dunes, Savary Island is a pretty place to kayak around: it's also reportedly the home of the world's biggest arbutus tree. Kayak over to Mitlenatch Island to observe the largest colony of sea birds in the Strait of Georgia, including gulls, cormorants, and oystercatchers.
Want a taste of Powell River's waterfront history? Go kayaking from Willingdon Beach up to the "Hulks," ten steel and concrete ships from World War II that now comprise the world's largest floating breakwater next to the city's pulp mill.
Lake Kayaking
For freshwater fun, the famous Powell River Forest Canoe Route is a fail-safe alternative. Kayak the eight-lake, 80km/50mi circuit and stop off at the 20 campsites along the way with picnic tables and washrooms. Watch for deer, elk, and eagles. For more information and maps of the route, head to the Powell River Visitor Centre (#111-4871 Joyce Ave.). Relaxing kayak forays at individual local lakes such as Powell Lake, Duck Lake, Inland Lake are also possible.
Kayak Rentals and Tours
This region is home to numerous reputable kayak operators. Based in Lund, Powell River Sea Kayak (10676 Crowther Rd.) offers day tours and multi-day tours of Desolation Sound, along with kayak rentals, and also sells all types of kayak gear.
Another Lund operator, Terracentric Adventures (1451B Hwy. 101), creates specialized kayak tours such as "The Story of Lund by Kayak" and "Floating Families Kayak Tour," that provides insight on local wildlife and the marine environment. In Powell River, Alpha Adventures (6812 Alberni St.) provides kayak rentals, lessons, and tours.
Check with the Powell River Visitor Centre for more information about sea and lake kayaking in the area.