A sea kayaking trip is a great way to see Canada's wilderness and careful planning makes sure everyone has a good time.
Canada has great kayaking adventures for all skill levels on both coasts. If you are interested in spotting seals and rare birds on your trip, then the eastern coast may be what you desire. If that's the case, Nova Scotia is home to numerous tour operators. Many of the sea kayaking trips off the coast of Nova Scotia start and end in or near the city of Hubbards. If you're looking for solitude and the potential to see whales or orcas, head to the western Canadian Coast. Vancouver Island off the coast of mainland British Columbia is home to some of the most spectacular sea kayaking around. Tours along the Johnstone Strait run between the Northeast coast of Vancouver Island and the mountains of mainland British Columbia, often offering participants glimpses of orcas swimming in their natural habitat. Tours on the western side of Vancouver Island often start and end near Tofino and offer kayakers natural, uninterrupted beauty and the chance to see whales in the wide open ocean.
Items to consider when planning a sea kayak trip in Canada:
1. When do you want to go? Since July and August fall into the peak season for sea kayaking in Canada, it is best to plan as far ahead as possible in order to make sure you get the experience you want when you want it.
2. How long do you have for this trip? There are a multitude of options when it comes to kayaking trips. Some are half day paddles while others can last up to a week or more. Regardless of how much time you have, make sure that everyone in your party is in agreement on how long a tour will remain fun. Even one extra day of camping and kayaking can seem like an eternity to a person who expected to be gone only for a short time. Be considerate and plan a trip that keeps everyone happy.
3. What do you want to see? Sea kayaking allows you to see sights otherwise unavailable via foot or car travel. While you may be interested simply in exploring islands inaccessible except by kayak or other boat, there are other ideas to consider. For example, if you want to have the chance to see whales, you will want to schedule a trip near where tours are held to spot whales in the ocean. If you want to see early morning sunrises, you will be best suited to a trip that has early morning departures.
4. What is the skill level of the people participating in the trip? If everyone is a seasoned kayaker, an unguided trip filled with long days could be a good option. However, if there are some people who have never kayaked before or those that may tire from so much physical exertion, take that into account. When you call companies to book a tour, let the operator know the skill levels of the members of your party and ask for recommendations for a trip that will keep all members challenged and energized for the entire duration.
5. What type of people do you want to be with? Kayaking has become a popular vacation event and now there are tours that cater to many different groups. For example, some operators feature all-women trips where event the guides are female, making for a bonding, uplifting experience. Other trips are created with families in mind and make sure to have activities planned for children and adults. Of course, there also are the sports-minded groups where athletic individuals can challenge themselves and others during their vacations.
6. What do you want from the trip besides kayaking? When calling around, ask the tour operator what events are planned on the trip aside from kayaking during the day. Some trips involve each participant in the cooking and cleaning for meals. Others are more relaxing and allow participants to read or walk on the beach while the tour guides take care of the necessary food preparation and clean up. If you have expectations of what you would like to do when you are off the water, it is best to explore the options prior to arriving on day one with unrealistic ideas of what is yet to come.
Finally, take advantage of the wealth of information available online and in sporting good stores. Many tour operators post listings of what participants can expect from a trip, as well as what participants need to purchase and pack prior to the excursion. And remember to make sure each member of your group has a valid passport for travel from the United States into Canada.
Sea kayaking is a great way to experience Canada's wonderland and a fabulous way to create fond memories among family members and friends. Just remember that the more leg work you do ahead of time, the better your chances of finding a good fit for all members of your group, ensuring a fun and safe time for all.
