4-Day Sea Otter Kayak Tour - Glamping & Exploring

Overview

This adventure fuses the rustic comforts of glamping, with the opportunity to explore Spring Island and the historic Mission Group of Islands by sea kayak, while experiencing sea otters, rugged shorelines, idyllic shell beaches, and many other delights. These trips begin and end from your accommodation in Comox/Courtenay or Campbell River, include van transportation, a scenic boat ride to our Wilderness Retreat base camp, and the perfect mix of personal and group time once on the west coast of Canada. Our daily routines flow with the tides, weather, and wildlife.

I loved this trip. I can't say enough good things about my experience. The area is so gorgeous - it really created a space within myself. Marilyn B, Ontario

Taking full advantage of the comforts and conveniences of our base camp, each day's outings by sea kayak and foot allow us to share nearby highlights, including: curious sea otters, sea lions, and the possibility of kayaking with whales, which can include humpback, grey, Minke and killer whales bald eagles, osprey, great blue herons, other marine birds, and sometimes even tufted puffins coastal wolf and black bear viewing by kayak while they forage along the shoreline inviting shell beaches on rocky islets laden with marine life in tide pools giant Sitka spruce trees topped with the massive nests of bald eagles incredibly picturesque sunsets and sunrises historic and current village sites of the local First Nations people some of the most spectacular surf-pounded shores off the West Coast of Canada

Our professional sea kayak guides enjoy sharing their knowledge and skills, and learning together with you! We are committed to helping you to feel comfortable if in a kayak for the first time, or to further developing your confidence and competence if already an experienced kayaker. When on interpretive walks, if we don't have answers for your many questions, we'll try to find out more in our substantial resource library in the dining and activity shelter at our island retreat.

Dates and Rates

Inclusions

All that you really need is your personal clothing and a sleeping bag (which you can also rent from us).  We take care of the rest!  A detailed packing list is included in your pre-trip information package which is provided upon registering.

We provide: Two-way ground transportation with professional drivers (van shuttle) to/from your overnight accommodation or vehicle parking location in Comox/Courtenay or Campbell River Two-way water taxi transfer from Fair Harbour to WCE Spring Island Base Camp Diverse fleet of high-quality fibreglass single and double kayaks and all related kayaking equipment Hot Shower! (with private ocean view) Walk-in waterfront tents with beds, pillows, fitted sheet, and fleece blanket (just bring your sleeping bag...or arrange to rent one from us) All scrumptious meals and snacks once with us in Kyuquot - everyone is pleasantly satiated! Professional guides and all group safety gear Use of paddling jackets and dry bags for day trips when kayaking Engaging interpretive programs (rainforest, intertidal, marine, cultural) tailored to your interests Comprehensive resource library of reference and reading material about the coast Complimentary use of Stand Up Paddle Boards for exploring in our sheltered bay Innumerable other things - big and small - that make your experience with us feel comfy and complete!

Itinerary

Day 1

• Morning van transportation from your accommodation in Comox/Courtenay or Campbell River; four to five hour scenic drive on northern Vancouver Island to remote Fair Harbour; chartered water taxi transportation to our Wilderness Retreat base camp on Spring Island - on the outer edge of Canada's west coast!
• Early afternoon arrival with a welcome snack, orientation, and tour of base camp facilities; time to settle into your waterfront tent accommodations.
• Relaxing introductory kayak outing or forest trail walk to spectacular and rugged exposed west coast shoreline and scenery - use your arms or legs and get your bearings! You've arrived!
• Dinner and evening activities, including preparation for next day's kayaking. Possible evening paddle in sheltered bay.

Day 2

• Continued orientation/refresher to the kayaks, safety equipment, and paddling strokes; safety briefing appropriate to the individual experience and day's activities.
• Day trip paddle through local islet clusters, abandoned First Nations Village site area, and sea otter viewing.
• Lunch break and shoreline intertidal life orientation on sandy shell beach.
• More exploring and wildlife viewing by kayak in the afternoon.
• Return to established camp comforts...and maybe enjoy a hot shower, nap, time on a stand up paddleboard, a good book, a relaxing beverage, wandering along the expansive beach,...?!  Your call!
• Evening appetizers, dinner, and opportunities for on-water kayak skill development with one-on-one coaching.
• Possible sunset paddle or walk...or just enjoy time around the fire visiting with others.

Day 3

• As per day 2, with additional day tripping destinations possibly including: estuary and river exploration, fossil finding, and "salmon forest" hike.
• Can also explore more exposed outer coastlines if sea conditions are appropriate, including sea arches and sea caves.
• Your day could include anything from: black bear viewing and possible wolf sightings; to a possible visit to the remote First Nations village of Kyuquot; to intertidal exploring and tide pool curiosities.
• If the seas are rough, no worries, there are plentiful shoreline hikes, beachcombing, and world-class photography opportunities. It's endless!

Day 4

• Possible sunrise paddle before breakfast.
• Similar activities as days 2 & 3 during the morning, including the option of a morning paddle through nearby sea arches and islets, or short interpretive walk into ancient temperate old-growth rainforest...making sure you leave time to relax and reflect - fully absorbing the majesty around you.
• Packing of personal gear in preparation for an early afternoon water taxi departure after lunch.  The challenge with a base camp, is that you can really "move in" quickly and spread your things everywhere!
• Return van transportation to your accommodation or connecting travel plans in the Campbell River or Comox/Courtenay areas.
• Your mind will likely be planning your next visit!