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Overview
Johnstone Strait, between Vancouver Island and mainland British Columbia is unquestionably the best place on earth to sea kayak with killer whales in the wild. Most of BC’s 220 northern resident killer whales return to these waters to feed, sleep, play, and rub their bodies on the pebble beaches each year between July and October. There is no better way to encounter pods of these friendly orca than up close and personal. Sharing this habitat are playful dolphins, sealions, harbour seals, minke whales, eagles and black bears.
Sea kayaking with the killer whales is one of life’s most amazing experiences as you sit in your kayak and watch the whales play around you. Stay in a permanent tented wilderness camp, with large tents and a ‘bush’ toilet, with the guidance and care of an experienced paddler, cook and naturalist from Spirit of the West Adventures; experts in the wildlife and environs of Vancouver Island.
Mr Davies - Travelled to BC & experienced Spirit of the West kayaking"A great adventure and really well organised"
We had a wonderful time. The Spirit of Adventure Kayaking trip was an absolute highlight - non of us can think of a holiday we enjoyed more, and the catering for coeliacs was wonderful. Vancouver and Victoria were wonderful too - with both hotels in both cities living up the expectations. If anything we would have happily spent more time in Victoria. A great adventure and really well organised - all the travel was joined up and worked for us. Thank you!
Itinerary (8 Nights)
Here’s a day-by-day guide to your itinerary. Feel free to ask us to add other days or ideas and excursions by contacting us directly, so we can give you the best price.
Day 2
Vancouver to Quadra Island
Travel to Quadra Island and stay overnight at Heriot Bay Inn. One of your guides from...
Day 2
Vancouver
to Quadra Island
Travel to Quadra Island and stay overnight at Heriot Bay Inn. One of your guides from Spirit of the West will go over the logistics of the tour, answer any of your concerns, and suit you up with lifejackets. This meeting will be held at the Heriot Bay Inn on Quadra Island at 6pm the day prior to departure.
1 night on Quadra Island.
Day 3
Quadra Island to Johnstone Strait
A warm welcome and introduction to your tour guides and captain will prepare you for...
Day 3
Quadra Island
to Johnstone Strait
A warm welcome and introduction to your tour guides and captain will prepare you for your adventure. Your route takes you up the waterway of the Discovery Passage, and safely through the infamous ‘Seymour Narrows’ renowned for its treacherous tidal flows and whirlpools. En route, sightings of marine life such as porpoises, dolphins, sea lions and whales are common. After a 2.5 hour journey you will arrive at your remote wilderness base camp, situated across from the pristine Tsitika River valley and the Robson Bight Ecological Reserve. After settling into your new surroundings, you will go over kayak orientation and safety procedures before setting off on an afternoon paddle.
3 nights camping at Wilderness Base Camp.
Day 4-5
Johnstone Strait
After our hearty breakfast you will paddle up the scenic coast in search of the...
Day 4-5
Johnstone Strait
After our hearty breakfast you will paddle up the scenic coast in search of the orca. During low tide keep a look out for black bears as they are known to forage along the shores. You will hike up forest trails to high viewing platforms used by researchers. Lunches will be enoyed on one of the many beaches of the Strait. Sightings of Dalls porpoises, sea lions, seals, otters, cormorants, marbled murrelets, and the eminent bald eagle are common. Although these days can be packed full of activities, there is also plenty of opportunity for those who want to kick back and relax at camp and enjoy the stunning surroundings.
Day 6
Johnstone Strait to Quadra Island
This is the last day to enjoy the marine environment of Johnstone Strait. Boat transport...
Day 6
Johnstone Strait
to Quadra Island
This is the last day to enjoy the marine environment of Johnstone Strait. Boat transport will pick you up after lunch and you will arrive at Quadra Island by late afternoon/early evening. The approximate return time is around 4.30pm, but please note that this cannot always be guaranteed as the weather and wildlife will play a role in determining when you get back.
1 night Quadra Island.
Day 8
Time for some last minute shopping in Victoria before taking your flight home to the...
Day 8
Victoria
Time for some last minute shopping in Victoria before taking your flight home to the UK via Vancouver. Alternatively explore further into British Columbia and maybe over to the Rockies. Ask us for a tailor made itinerary.
