Literally at the end of the road, the popular village of Tofino is our launching point to explore the islands, channels and outer coast which make this Clayoquot Sound a Sea Kayaker's paradise. The islands and mountains are covered with coastal temperate rain forest. The kind of rain forest found here is one of the most rare kind of forest in the world, covering less than 0.2% of the Earth’s land surface. In 2000 the entire sound, including part of Pacific Rim National Park Reserve, was designated as a biosphere reserve, adding to the global profile of the wilderness area. The areas wildlife is both varied and abundant; wolves are often see at a distance, plus gray whales and a huge number of seabirds, duck and loons.
The Sound is unique as it offers protected inner waterways that meander through interesting ,scenic inlets or the more exposed outer shorelines. Although our exact route will be determined by weather and sea conditions, our goal will be to visit both Vargas and Flores Islands where you can expect deserted white beaches, wave battered headlands and old growth forests with dramatic mountainous backdrops. The kayaking is amazing with the opportunity to experience a range of paddling conditions including surf landings and rock hopping. Navigation skills are sure to be tested with some foggy morning expected during the summer months.
Skill Level required
This is a demanding location, so previous paddling experience in a sea kayak is definitely a requirement for this expedition. Participants are to be proficient but not highly-skilled paddlers, you should be familiar with the core paddling strokes and able to perform a wet exit and rescues if required, Paddle Canada L2 skills or similar skill level would be a good place to start, but not essential as training is provided. Previous experience camping in the back-country is helpful. We could be exposed to wind and waves on this trip, so a good forward stroke is an asset.
Expedition Fees
$850 + 5% GST
Whats Included
Experienced sea kayak instructors with previous experience of running expeditions to this location. Group gear for the expedition (tarp, kitchen equipment, utensils, water filtration, etc) - Good simple meals three times a day plus snacks while on trip. First aid and kayak repair kits - Communication devices (VHF Radios and Garmin In reach) - 3:1 minimum participant to Instructor ratio. Paddle Canada Level 2 or 3 certification (optional)
Whats NOT included
Transportation to and camping at Tofino. Personal snacks and drinks.
The following items are NOT included in the price but can be rented when booking if required.
High quality fiberglass sea kayak, safety gear, dry suit, carbon paddle, personal camping gear.
6 Day Clayoquot Sound Expeditions for 2020
- August 8 - 13 (2 places available) must hold L2 skills certification