SEA KAYAK TOUR BROKEN GROUP ISLANDS BC
Sample Itinerary
This is an iconic Vancouver Island, BC, sea kayaking adventure through the stunning Broken Group Islands.
The Broken Group Islands are a part of the Pacific Rim National Park, located off the rugged west coast of Vancouver Island, British Columbia. It is made up of a rich tapestry of small isles, sand and shell beaches and lush temperate coastal rain forest. Marine and land mammals to watch for include Orcas, Humpbacks and Grey Whales, sea otters, sea lions, wolves, deer, eagles and pelicans. With such a rich cultural and ecological history, there is always something to look out for, or ponder on this 4-day kayaking journey. A fairly sheltered group of islands, this multi-day trip is great for all experience levels.
The trip begins and ends with the classic Lady Rose Ferry. The ferry is great way to get take in the scenery, settle in and to spot coastal bears and whales. Upon our arrival to the Broken Group Islands, we will arrange our gear into our kayaks, receive an introductory talk, and with that, will begin our first paddle.
The Broken Group Islands are a part of the Pacific Rim National Park Reserve. Located off the West coast of Vancouver Island, they are made up of a rich tapestry of small isles, sand and shell beaches and lush temperate rain forest. There is always something to be on the lookout for! From land and marine mammals, the amazing variety of bird species, to the incredible show that happens just below our kayaks in the intertidal zone.
Highlights
STARTS AT
USD per Person
THIS IS A CUSTOMIZABLE ITINERARY FOR GROUPS OF ALL SIZES.
DATES ARE AVAILABLE UPON REQUEST.
Day 1
We will start the trip with the classic Lady Rose ferry at 8 am which will take us to our starting point at the Sechart Lodge. We will unload our gear from the ferry and begin packing our kayaks. A kayak instructional will be delivered to ensure the group has a good understanding of paddling techniques and group travel. We will eat lunch and then begin our paddle!
There will be a short 30-minute crossing at the outset. Depending on the weather we may choose a route following the outer islands with impressive rock formations and sea caves, or the more sheltered route amongst smaller islands.
The first day will include 2-3 hours of paddling in the afternoon, before making our way to our first camp.
All your meals, snacks, appetizers and desserts for the trip will be prepared by the guide. You will have time to set up your tent and relax by the campfire, read a book, sip a glass of wine, or stroll the beaches upon arrival to our camp each evening around 4 or 5 pm.
Days 2 & 3
These will be full paddling days unless the weather tells us otherwise. Our days will include 2-3 hours of paddling before lunch and another 2-3 hours of paddling post lunch. The routes will vary as the guide considers the group, weather, and water conditions. We will likely switch camps once to give the group a greater chance to see more of the islands.
Similar to our first day, we will paddle either the outer islands looking for rocks filled with sea lions, sea caves and arches, or we may choose to play in the sheltered waters to find an amazing variety of intertidal species. Lunch spots include sand or shell beaches, cultural sites that offer insight into local First Nation history and ways of living, as well as opportunities for short hikes to giant cedar trees.
Given the opportunity and group desire an evening paddle will be arranged to play amongst the bioluminescence.
Day 4
The final day will include a full morning paddle. We will have lunch, sort our gear at the Sechart Lodge dock and catch a 3:00 pm ferry back to Port Alberni.
The ferry will have us back by 7:00 pm where we will exchange emails for photos and make our next plans!
Clothing should include
Other Items Include:
Tour Exclusions
IMPORTANT NOTES
PLEASE NOTE:
This itinerary is subject to change. Although we always do our best to stick to the itinerary. Participants should be comfortable camping and paddling in remote regions. Should be of at least a moderate fitness level.
WHEN & WHERE WE MEET:
Travel to and from Port Alberni is not included in the tour price. We will meet the evening before our departure date at 7 pm at a given location to review our itinerary, go over last-minute clothing options and answer questions, as well as hand out dry bags and paddle jackets. It’s nice to book a hotel locally for the evening before and after the trip to assure travel is not rushed if any changes should happen.
A list of clothing and personal gear will be sent to you to assist you in this preparation.
ACCOMMODATION:
Accommodation will need to be booked for the evening before in Port Alberni as this is not part of the tour package.
Depending on your group and party size you may choose between 2 person tents that are suitable for single participants or a 3 person tent suitable for 2 participants wanting to share a tent. Thick mattresses, warm sleeping bags and liners are also included. You will need to bring a headlamp or flashlight for reading in your tent.
We will typically arrive in Port Alberni on our final day around 7 pm. It is nice to book a night’s accommodation in advance for this evening in Port Alberni or another nearby town.
VISAS: (responsibility of the traveller if applicable )
Travel Insurance
Cancellation, Travel, Flight, and Health insurance are required and are the responsibility of the participant to research and secure the appropriate coverage. Click HERE for a Travel Insurance Quote or please email nicola@finisterra.ca for a quote.
Check with your local travel agent /insurance provider/health plan for advice about travelling overseas.
Waiver Form
All participants will be required to sign a Waiver Form prior to departure.
Are you all ready for your next adventure?
Even though we wish you a flawless trip, things can happen, especially nowadays. Make sure you are prepared with a Travel Insurance policy that is right for you. Finisterra recommends Manulife Insurance or John Hancock Please feel free to ask us about Covid-19 Insurance Coverage, Trip Cancellation & Interruption Insurance, Travel Medical Insurance, or any other questions you may have.
TRAVEL INSURANCE FOR CANADIANS
Travel with confidence knowing that you’re covered with Manulife Insurance.
TRAVEL INSURANCE FOR AMERICANS – JOHN HANCOCK
Explore the world, stress-free, when you book travel insurance with John Hancock International.
JOIN OUR FINISTERRA COMMUNITY
Stay up-to-date with us when you sign up for our newsletter.