Vancouver Island is a haven for ocean kayaking and it is known for its stretches of isolated beaches, old growth rainforests and abundant marine life. Glide silently past otters, sea lions and shore birds in their natural surroundings in an eco-friendly way to see some of the Island's best-kept secrets. Or challenge yourself to tidal rapids around the Discovery Island. These light, maneuverable craft are easy to transport, can be launched from just about anywhere and can travel to places that are out of reach for larger boats.
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Kayaking on Vancouver Island
The rugged west coast, open to the Pacific Ocean, is home to hundreds of hidden coves, islands, narrow passages and rocky headlands, numerous fjords and stretches of uninhabited sandy beach. The protected east coast takes paddlers into deep fjords, remote island archipelagos, refuge bays, ecological reserves and marine parks. Those paddling the northern part of the Island will find themselves sandwiched between the Vancouver Island mountain range and the mainland of BC's Coast Mountains. Victoria, Nanaimo, Tofino, Ucluelet and Telegraph Cove are among several areas where paddlers can access touring opportunities from downtown and experiences range from beginner flatwater cruising up to challenging multi-day open-water excursions.
Vancouver Island Events Perfect for Kayakers
The Pacific Rim Whale Festival in March each year in Tofino and Ucluelet celebrates the whale migration of over 22,000 northbound Grey whales complete with dozens of events and a truly local flavour. From a kayak, get front-row seats for the Victoria's Swiftsure International Yacht Race, held annually in May. The annual Nanaimo Marine Festival in July can see paddlers witnessing the city's famous but crazy Nanaimo Bathtub races. Experience Aboriginal History
Clayoquot Sound is the traditional territory of the Nuu-chah-nulth First Nation and contains several heritage sites. The Broken Group Islands have been their summer hunting sites for centuries and guides can point out native stone fish traps that remain to this day. The Johnstone Strait area contains several Aboriginal sites as well as communities where traditional ceremonies are held. Wildlife Spotting from Kayaks
Wildlife watching is part of the kayaking experience on VanIsle. Marine mammals include Orca, Grey, Humpback and Minke whales, and the Greys swim along the shoreline in spring and fall. Both resident and transient Orca Whales hang out in these waters from approximately May to November. Guided tours into grizzly bear territory have become very popular. A rich inter-tidal ecosystem attracts bald eagles, great blue herons, ospreys, gulls, cormorants and a wide array of duck species ot the water's edge especially at low tide near shallow mud flats.
Guided Kayaking Tours
Depending on the tour, kayaking trips are often planned to be at least 5–10 days long in order to maximize the time spent visiting remote areas and to allow for changing weather conditions. Among touring options in this region are floating lodges, motherships (a larger boat that acts as a home base), shuttle boats, and wilderness camping.
Guided tours for beginner to experienced kayakers are available. If you are unfamiliar with the area, a guided tour is highly recommended. Tour operators will usually supply guests with all the necessary gear, safety equipment, and food needed, or will provide guests with a list of items to bring. Be sure to check in advance. Kayak rentals are available in several communities including Victoria, Nanaimo, Tofino, Ucluelet and Telegraph Cove.
Practical Points, Best Times to Kayak and Ocean Safety
- Much of Vancouver Island's coastline is rugged and remote. Proper planning, preparation, clothing and footwear appropriate to the conditions, and an adequate water and food supply are essential.
- Weather can change quickly, and kayakers often get wet through rain, waves, spray or splashing.
- Be sure to dress in layers. Bring quick dry clothing, such as nylon, polyester, or polypropelene; avoid cotton clothing, as takes longer to dry and does not keep in heat. Wool clothing is also a good option.
- A lifejacket, hat, waterproof jacket, and sunglasses (on a lanyard so you won't lose them) are essential, as is rain gear and a change of dry clothes stored in a watertight container.
- Wear suitable footwear, such as sandals, water shoes, or light running shoes. Watertight cases for personal items (such as cameras) are also recommended.
- Always let someone know your route and destination before setting out on a kayak trip. Be aware that weather conditions can change rapidly, and can affect your itinerary.
- Please leave the area you visit undisturbed and be sure to carry out your garbage. Be aware that bears and other wildlife inhabit the region. Do not get too close to or attempt to feed wild animals.
- For a comprehensive guide to sea kayaking, read the Transport Canada Sea Kakaying Safety Guide
Highlights
Johnstone Strait and Broughton Archipelago
Johnstone Strait and Broughton Archipelago are prime kayaking areas situated along the scenic Inside Passage, near the north end of Vancouver Island. Johnstone Strait is known for its premier wildlife viewing, dramatic landscape, and rich Aboriginal cultural sites. Each summer, the salmon converge through the narrow waterways of Johnstone Strait, and this rich environment attracts an abundance of eagles, bears and whales. Resident Orca whales are present from June through September, and the area has become famous as one of the best places in the world to view Orcas.
Adjacent to Johnstone Strait, the Broughton Archipelago consists of a myriad of islands stretching from Vancouver Island to the mainland coast. These sheltered waters make for ideal paddling, and the area is rich in natural and cultural history. Highlights include Village Island, an abandoned Kwakwaka'wakw village; ancient midden sites; and rich wildlife viewing.
Most tours and rentals depart either historic Telegraph Cove or nearby Port McNeil on northern Vancouver Island. The paddling conditions in this area can be treacherous at times - novice paddlers should consider joining an organized tour.
Attributes:
- Approximate time required is 1 - 8 days
- Best time: late June to early September
- This area is rated as moderate to difficult
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Broken Group Islands
The Broken Group Islands archipelago is one of the world's premier sea kayaking destinations. Manoeuvre a kayak through more than 100 islands and rocks that feature giant twisted cedars, enormous sea caves and blowholes. Go ashore to hike the island trails, investigate tide pools or build a campfire on the beach.You'll find the wildlife viewing as exquisite as the scenery: eagles, sea lions, Grey whales and Black bears all call the Broken Group Islands home. The islands can only be accessed by boat. They are located in Barkley Sound, between the communities of Ucluelet and Bamfield on the west coast of Vancouver Island.
Attributes:
- This area is rated moderate to difficult
- Length of guided tours average 4 days
- Scheduled ferry service: June - September
> Pacific Rim Park website.
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Clayoquot Sound
Clayoquot Sound is a beautiful area of beaches, headlands and old-growth rainforest on Vancouver Island's wild west coast. Enjoy a wide range of protected inner waterways, miles of rocky coastline and all kinds of marine wildlife: whales, salmon, sea squirts, marine birds, sea lions and more. Tofino is the service centre and launch point for most kayaking trips in the sound. Good day trips for beginners include Browning Passage, Maurus Channel and Lemmens Inlet. Experienced paddlers can circumnavigate Vargas Island in a day. Note that some stretches of its 32km/20mi coastline are exposed to open ocean.
The most popular multi-day paddling excursion in the sound is the one to Maquinna Provincial Park. The park's docking area is connected to a 2km/1.2mi boardwalk trail through the rainforest to Hot Springs Cove. Jump into one of the cove's lower pools for a relaxing soak in geothermally heated water.
The community of Tofino is the main "gateway" to Clayoquot Sound. It's a 1.75-hour drive west of Port Alberni via Highway 4.
Attributes:
- This area is rated easy to difficult
- Approximate time required ranges from 1 day - multi-day
- Best time: July – August
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Gulf Islands
A mild climate, safe and sheltered waters and spectacular scenery make the Gulf Islands one of the paramount kayaking destinations in Canada. Rentals, lessons and guided tours are available on many of the islands and, as kayaking is a particularly satisfying way to watch the sun set, companies often offer sunset and evening paddling excursions. The waters around the southern Gulf Islands are especially calm and are suitable for paddlers of all skill levels. Farther north, the "Discovery Islands" offer a quieter, more remote paddling experience along a dramatic and varied coastline. The Gulf Islands lie between the mainland of BC and Vancouver Island.
Attributes:
- This area is rated easy to difficult
- The approximate time required ranges from 3 hours - several days
> Gulf Islands Park website.
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Nanaimo
A dramatic coastline, mild weather as well as numerous protected inlets and islands make Nanaimo a superb sea kayaking destination. Local tour companies can provide all the equipment and know-how you'll need to have a terrific time out on the water. They offer everything from women-only and children's day camps to moonlight paddles and multi-day excursions. Paddle around charming Newcastle Island or explore the dramatic, natural sandstone formations of the Malaspina Galleries. Both places have been tourist attractions for more than a hundred years. Nanaimo is a 90-minute drive north from Victoria via Highway 1.
Attributes:
- This area is rated easy to difficult
- The approximate time required ranges from 3 hours to several days
Discovery Islands
Some of the strongest tidal rapids in the northern hemisphere can be found around the Discovery Islands. Much of the area is for those advanced paddlers seeking a high performance, whitewater experience however, the rapids do range in classes from I through IV. Two sets of rapids that are particularly popular are Upper Rapids of the Okisollo near Cooper Point, and the secondary tidal passages of Surge Narrows. Many kayakers take advantage of the range of accommodations and a variety of activities on Quadra Island including hiking, cycling and beachcombing to extend their stay over a number of days. The Discovery Islands are accessed via BC Ferry from Campbell River on Vancouver Island to Quadra Island with connecting service to Cortes Island.Attributes:
- Class I – IV
- Approximate time ranges from 3 hours to several days
- Tidal rapids can be dangerous. Only experienced paddlers should enter these waters.