Inn to Inn Paddling- Southern BC Gulf Islands
Comfort and culture; lodge-based day paddling in the warm southern Gulf Islands of BC. Possible highlights include visits to local artists, farmers markets, a wine tasting tour and hikes to beautiful views of the islands. End the day’s adventure with a hot shower and a cosy bed!
Sea kayaking is by its very nature a calm and relaxing sport. No special skills or equipment are required on your behalf to fully participate and enjoy this tour. Because our nights are spent in the comfort of local inns and B&B's, the chores of camping are left behind and we have more time to focus on the enjoyment of paddling and exploring. Our kayaks are sturdy and spacious and most importantly stable. Our skilled guides will ensure everyone is properly prepared and confident before setting out on the water.
We will spend our days exploring the islands at a leisurely pace both by kayak and on foot. Healthy lunches on the water will be prepared by your guides while all other Five Star cuisine will be served “oceanside” by international chefs, catered by our hosts at our nightly accommodations. We have carefully selected from the finest Inns, which we believe will showcase the islands hospitality and charm. Each Inn has its own unique character. Lingering summer sunsets will see us to our rooms for the night, while steaming cups of fresh coffee and tea will greet us in the mornings. We are sure you will agree this is the perfect getaway!
The Gulf Islands
The Gulf Islands are the gems of Western Canada’s Pacific coastline. This beautiful archipelago is blessed with a temperate Mediterranean climate, mild throughout the year with dry, clear summer skies. These islands are in the rainshadow of the Olympic Mountains and receive an annual rainfall well below that of the rest of B.C, averaging 45 cm (about 18 inches). The resulting landscape is that of Garry Oak woodlands and dry coniferous forests with numerous wildflower meadows. Over 250 species of birds have been recorded in these islands as well as a host of land and marine animals.
Tidal currents are swift here resulting in a thorough mixing of nutrient rich water feeding an abundance of marine mammals including: Dall’s and Harbour Porpoise, Stellars and California Sealions, Harbour and Elephant seals and of course the charismatic Orca. Wave cut and sculpted sandstone formations lend a photogenic quality to the marine environment that is unparalleled anywhere in the region.
Over the years we have paddled extensively in these pastoral islands and have an intimate knowledge of their geography and natural history, we look forward to sharing their many wonders with you during this relaxing tour.
ITINERARY IN BRIEF:
Note: This itinerary is a sample only - the exact itinerary and daily distances of your trip will be dictated by factors such as ferry schedule, weather and group strength, with the guides working within the parameters of safety, time, and highlights of the area.
Day 1-/Monday
Ferry transfer from the Tsawwassen Ferry Terminal to Mayne Island. After arriving on Mayne Island, we will be outfitted for kayaking and transfer to our kayaks. After a safety and instructional orientation to the boats and kayaking in general, we can enjoy a relaxing paddle before heading to the first nights accommodation. Overnight at a local Lodge or Inn.
Day 2 - 4 /Tuesday - Thursday
We will explore Mayne and Galiano Island (and possibly Saturna or even Pender Island), as well as numerous smaller islets in the area. Our leisurely pace will allow for plenty of time to explore and interpret the cultural and natural history of these remarkable islands, while hopefully spotting some wildlife along the way. Overnights at local Inns or Lodges.
Day 5 / Friday
Completing our tour of the Gulf Islands we return to Mayne Island before boarding the afternoon ferry, and returning to Tsawwassen. Please note that ferry schedules are subject to change, so please call our office prior to your trip departure to confirm the return time.
Price includes:
All meals and non-alcoholic drinks while on tour, starting with lunch on the first day and ending with lunch on the last day, two fully qualified sea kayak guides, all group kayaking specific equipment, transportation on the islands while on tour and from the Tsawassen ferry terminal to the Gulf Islands return, nightly accommodation at some of the finest properties the islands have to offer.
Non-inclusive service:
Transportation between your home and the Tsawassen ferry terminal, personal clothing and equipment listed on the suggested "Clothing and Equipment List", gratuities, alcoholic beverages, applicable taxes, any expenses incurred due to ferry schedule changes/delays, inclement weather, mechanical breakdown/malfunction or the actions of third parties, personal souvenirs/gifts, additional food and other items you purchase during you tour.
Note:
Single kayaks are available, be sure to let us know if you have a preference ahead of time.
We can assist you with your pre and post trip accommodation and transportation in Tsawassen, BC. Just ask us how.
