Ocean Kayaking
Vancouver Island, British Columbia,
Canada ( paddle route links )
Vancouver Island on the west coast of British Columbia is one of 6000 islands that dot the coastline. The maze of islands, the wildlife and the thousands of secluded coves, hidden bays and sandy beaches make Vancouver Island a very popular destination for kayak touring.
Every year many kayakers arrive on the coast for guided and self guided kayak tours. All along the coastline are various day trips and multi day kayaking adventures suitable for all levels of kayaking from beginner to experienced.
Kayak tours with a qualified guide operate from many of the waterfront communities located on Vancouver Island. Many provide a good selection of kayaking day tours and multi day wilderness camping adventures.
Booking a kayak tour with a qualified guide is a good way to explore the island for beginner and moderate kayakers. A guided tour includes kayak equipment and lessons... and, on multi day tours, meals and accommodations.
A guided tour follows a trip itinerary and plans for rough weather. A guide is prepared and experienced in paddling
through surge channels, conducting beach landings and wet launches, navigating rough seas and preparing for changing weather conditions.
Guided kayak tour packages range from 2 hour “introductory
kayaking" tours to long haul, multi day "overnight kayaking
trips" which include wilderness beach camping or staying with lodge or cabin accommodations.
Kayaking is best enjoyed between March and
October, after and before, the west coast storm season. June and August being the most popular
months because of the dry weather and calming sea conditions.
Temperatures and weather for kayaking varies each season. However, Vancouver Island does enjoy the warmest temperatures
in Canada with highs of 30’s ( Celsius
) – 80’s Fahrenheit - in the summer and lows of mid 20’s
( Celsius ) – 60’s Fahrenheit - in the spring and fall.
Roof top boat launches and marinas dot the coastline for quick access to many parts of Vancouver Island. Local marinas have docks, services and piers for overnight moorage.
There are too many paddle routes to list... but here are some of the more popular kayaking routes located near Vancouver Island.
Kayaking
