Trip Overview
Paddling amongst the towering mountains of the BC Coast Mountain range is a truly awe-inspiring adventure for sea kayak paddlers. Desolation Sound has a Mediterranean climate and you can count on having the best weather on this coast.
THE AREA
Carved into the inaccessible wilderness of the Canadian mainland over the ages, the soaring peaks of the mountains tumble to the water's edge in a jumble of river mouths and small islands, a perfect spot for exploring this majestic and unspoiled area.
CAMPING & DINING
The campsites are simply stunning. Most of them will be on small Islands in the heart of Desolation Sound. 6000ft peaks will tower over you giving you the feeling of being rather small. The food is fresh, wholesome and local when possible. The shellfish, salmon or halibut come from Quadra Island fishermen.
OTHER ACTIVITIES
Hiking, kayaking skills development, shellfish harvesting, and lots of opportunities to swim in the nearby lakes as well as the warmest ocean waters.
THE ITINERARY Day 1: Your guides will arrange meeting times and locations at the pre-trip meeting and will generally pick you up at your accommodation on Quadra Island (unless you prefer otherwise). The group will catch the 9 am ferry to Cortes Island and then travel to the launch site at Squirrel Cove. After packing the kayaks you will spend some time reviewing kayaking skills and tips for comfort and of course safety procedures before the journey begins. You'll paddle towards the fjords of Desolation Sound and see a number of beautiful sites within an afternoon’s paddle. Keep your eyes open for harbour seals or dall’s porpoises along the way!
Day 2: Savor a hearty breakfast in the great outdoors before heading off off on today’s adventure. You'll continue on into the enchanting islands, kayaking and exploring Desolation Sound as you head towards the evening's campsite.
Day 3-4: These days may entail paddling through the scattered islands, interpretive forest walks, swimming in fresh water lakes, practicing some on-water skills, or simply lounging at island campsites.
Day 5: You will journey back to Cortes Island along the rugged shores of West Redonda Island. A visit to Refuge Cove or the lovely protected lagoon of Squirrel Cove will be the last stop of our 5-day kayak journey. A return in the early afternoon will allow for the time needed to return to Quadra Island between 3-5pm.
NOTE: Prices are listed in US dollars and are subject to change based on current exchange rates.
