Johnstone Strait Paddle Route
Vancouver Island, British Columbia,
Canada
The Johnstone Strait paddle route is located on the inside passage of Vancouver Island, British Columbia, Canada. Some of the highlights of the paddle route include visiting the Tsitika River Estuary Watershed, Orcas in Robson Bight and Blackfish Sound and
the Mamalilaculla First Nations Totem Poles.
The strait is a major marine route which sees allot of marine traffic besides kayaks. On any given day there are fishing boats, tour boats, sightseeing boat cruises, supply barges, coast guard vessels, cruise ships, sailboats, BC Ferries, yachts and tug boats.
Johnstone Strait is 110 kilometres long, 2.5 to 5 kilometers wide, and stretches from Campbell River (south) to Telegraph Cove (north). South of Johnstone Strait is the Discovery Passage. There are few communities located along the central portion of Johnstone Strait and it is wise to stock up with supplies prior to your departure.
Many who kayak the strait prefer to paddle along with a tour group. This is a good idea if this is the first time kayaking near Vancouver Island. A kayak tour group includes lessons, equipment and, most importantly, an experienced, interpretive guide.
A guide enables a kayak group to safely navigate the rip tides and ocean currents in Johnstone Strait. Kayak guides also are prepared for unexpected weather, storms and trained in open water survival techniques. A guide also will provide commentary and information on the history, geography and wildlife in the region.
Not all paddlers hook up with a tour group. There are some on the water who enjoy self guided tours. Many of these kayakers are experienced paddlers and equipped with all the proper equipment like gps, tidal charts, rain gear and navigation charts.
For multi day kayak adventures there are some beach camping destinations available along the Vancouver
Island side of Johnstone Strait like near the Tsitika River Estuary.
Johnstone Strait is a challenging route because of the turbulent waters and heavy marine traffic. There are obstacles to avoid like tide rips and heavy winds.
Here is how the currents work. The "flood current" flows
down island toward Campbell
River. The "ebb current" flows up island towards the Queen
Charlotte Islands (Haida Gwaii). And the "residual ebb surface" current increases the speed and strength of the current. It is a mixture of currents creating a challenging paddle.
Wildlife sightings in Johnstone Strait are common. Some of the wildlife includes black bears, seals, sea lions and whales. In Johnstone Strait, especially in the areas of Robson Bight and Blackfish Sound, are some of the biggest concentrations of orcas
(Killer Whales) .
Johnstone Strait
