Footprint BC
Kayak Multi-Day Tours | Desolation Sound | Copeland Islands
Our professionally guided and all inclusive multi-day kayak tours take place in the Copeland Islands Provincial Marine Park and Desolation Sound Provincial Marine Park.
Multiday Tour Descriptions
2-day Copeland Islands Kayak Tour | A Ragged Discovery
Description
This 2-day kayak tour, departing from Lund Harbour, will give us the opportunity to explore this fantastic marine park and its surroundings. We set up camp on a small island in the northern section of the marine park. Often, kayakers and boaters seems to ‘rush’ into Desolation Sound and forget about this classic kayak destination.
Tour Highlights
BC has grown up around the Georgia Strait. The beauty of the surrounding mountains, the islands, the inlets, the marine life and the isolation of the coastal areas attract visitors from around the world. The Copeland Islands archipelago is situated in the most northern waters of the strait and consists of a string of islands and islets and offers spectacular views in all directions. These are the breeding grounds for many species of birds. Seals and seasonally sea lions haul out on exposed rocks. Lately, humpback whales and killer whales are passing by more and more. Backcountry camping adds an extra dimension to this tour, during dusk and dawn wildlife always seems to be more active and we could take the opportunity to go out for a sunset paddle. A dark night might reveal ‘a wonder of light’, bioluminescence frequently occurs during warm summer months. We also could spend some time on kayak-fishing or collecting shellfish, such as oysters. The catch of the day will be added to our meal-plan.
Duration / Distance
A maximum of 8 – 10 Nautical Miles (approx. 14 – 18km / 9 – 11mi) per paddling day. Distance will also depend on group preferences and goals, weather conditions and tides. It takes some time to complete packing and a pre-tour instruction on the first day of the tour, we aim to be back in Lund Harbour between 3pm and 4pm on the final day. It will speed up the start of a tour if Medical Information Forms and Liability Waivers are filled out and signed prior to the tour.
Age restrictions / Height & Weight Limits
Our youngest participants are about 4 years old and our most experienced paddlers have been in their 80’s! Just ask us if you have any doubt about this tour being suitable for your abilities.
In order to ensure your comfort and safety, participants who have primary control of the kayak (the ones with the rudder pedals) should be of sufficient age, height, weight and maturity to do so.
Please note: Your guide will always have the authority to make the final decision on kayak configuration and safety related issues. ‘Safety first, fun will follow.’
Conditions / Skill level
Paddle routes during this tour are within the sheltered class 2 waters of Georgia Strait / Salish Sea. However, during this tour you might be exposed to some wind, waves and boat wakes. Your guide will choose the route most appropriate for weather, tides and group.
Camping will take place within the marine park on designated campsites. Tent platforms and an outhouse are the facilities that BC Parks has provided for our comfort.
No experience necessary! This guided tour is appropriate for beginners.
Guide to participant ratio
One guide up to a maximum of six participants
Included
Single or 2-person ocean tour kayak (3-person when a centre hatch seat is added)
All required kayak safety gear and equipment
All required camping gear and equipment
All meals during the tour
Backcountry Camping Permit
Dry-bags
Not Included
Personal items, we provide a detailed ‘Suggested Gear List’ prior to the tour
Tidal Fishing Licence and fishing gear
Gratuities
2-day Desolation Sound Kayak Tour | Desolation Sound’s Fabulous
Description
This 2-day kayak tour, departing from Desolation Sound Resort in Okeover Inlet, will give us the opportunity to explore this fantastic marine park. We’ll be setting up camp in one of the three accessible campsites in the southern sections of the marine park.
Tour Highlights
This is West Coast scenery beyond compare. Deep inlets and hidden bays, ready to be explored by kayak. Enjoy the setting sun and the rising moon. Embark on a sunset paddle and listen to the trill of the Black Oyster Catcher. Wildlife is usually more active during dusk and dawn, this would also a good time to look for playful seals. The mild currents in Malaspina Inlet make it possible for an array of intertidal life to flourish. Locally well-known spots such as ‘Urchin Alley’ and ‘the Aquarium’ show a colourful variety of invertebrates during lower tides. We also could spend some time on kayak-fishing or collecting shellfish, such as oysters. The catch of the day will be added to our meal-plan.
Duration / Distance
A maximum of 8 – 10 Nautical Miles (approx. 14 – 18km / 9 – 11mi) per paddling day. Distance will also depend on group preferences and goals, weather conditions, currents and tides. It takes some time to complete packing and a pre-tour instruction on the first day of the tour, we aim to be back at Desolation Sound Resort between 3pm and 4pm on the final day. It will speed up the start of a tour if Medical Information Forms and Liability Waivers are filled out and signed prior to the tour.
– Age restrictions / Height & Weight Limits
Our youngest participants are about 4 years old and our most experienced paddlers have been in their 80’s! Just ask us if you have any doubt about this tour being suitable for your abilities.
In order to ensure your comfort and safety, participants who have primary control of the kayak (the ones with the rudder pedals) should be of sufficient age, height, weight and maturity to do so.
Please note: Your guide will always have the authority to make the final decision on kayak configuration and safety related issues. ‘Safety first, fun will follow.’
Conditions / Skill level
Paddle routes during this tour are within the sheltered class 2 waters of Desolation Sound. However, during this tour you might be exposed to some wind, waves, mild currents and boat wakes. Your guide will choose the route most appropriate for weather, tides, mild currents and group.
Camping will take place within the marine park on designated campsites. Tent platforms and an outhouse are the facilities that BC Parks has provided for our comfort.
No experience necessary! This guided tour is appropriate for beginners.
Guide to participant ratio
One guide up to a maximum of six participants
Included
Single or 2-person ocean tour kayak (3-person when a centre hatch seat is added)
All required kayak safety gear and equipment
All required camping gear and equipment
All meals during the tour
Backcountry Camping Permit
Dry-bags
Not Included
Personal items, we provide a detailed ‘Suggested Gear List’ prior to the tour
Tidal Fishing Licence and fishing gear
Gratuities
3-day Desolation Sound Kayak Tour | Around Desolation Sound
Description
This 3-day kayak tour, departing from Desolation Sound Resort in Okeover Inlet, is ideal for novice kayakers. Desolation Sound’s waters will allow you to effortlessly paddle past rocky islands and through narrow passages.
Tour Highlights
We’ll be setting up our base-camp for two nights on a scenic location, Hare Point or Feather Cove. The second day we’ll ‘travel light’ into the ‘heart of Desolation Sound’ and we’ll be surrounded by the immense natural beauty BC’s largest provincial marine park has to offer. Often we’ll be followed by seals and sometimes we even encounter some of the whales that visit this area. In addition to the spectacular Sea-to-Sky scenery, swimming or snorkeling in these waters is an extra bonus to your amazing camping and kayaking adventure!
Duration / Distance
A maximum of 8 – 10 Nautical Miles (approx. 14 – 18km / 9 – 11mi) per paddling day. Distance will also depend on group preferences and goals, weather conditions, currents and tides. It takes some time to complete packing and a pre-tour instruction on the first day of the tour, we aim to be back at Desolation Sound Resort between 3pm and 4pm on the final day. It will speed up the start of a tour if Medical Information Forms and Liability Waivers are filled out and signed prior to the tour.
Age restrictions / Height & Weight Limits
Our youngest participants are about 4 years old and our most experienced paddlers have been in their 80’s! Just ask us if you have any doubt about this tour being suitable for your abilities.
In order to ensure your comfort and safety, participants who have primary control of the kayak (the ones with the rudder pedals) should be of sufficient age, height, weight and maturity to do so.
Please note: Your guide will always have the authority to make the final decision on kayak configuration and safety related issues. ‘Safety first, fun will follow.’
Conditions / Skill level
Paddle routes during this tour are within the sheltered class 2 waters of Desolation Sound. However, during this tour you might be exposed to some wind, waves, mild currents and boat wakes. Your guide will choose the route most appropriate for weather, tides, mild currents and group.
Camping will take place within the marine park on designated campsites. Tent platforms and an outhouse are the facilities that BC Parks has provided for our comfort.
No experience necessary! This guided tour is appropriate for beginners.
Guide to participant ratio
One guide up to a maximum of six participants
Included
Single or 2-person ocean tour kayak (3-person when a centre hatch seat is added)
All required kayak safety gear and equipment
All required camping gear and equipment
All meals during the tour
Backcountry Camping Permit
Dry-bags
Not Included
Personal items, we provide a detailed ‘Suggested Gear List’ prior to the tour
Tidal Fishing Licence and fishing gear
Gratuities
3-day one-way Desolation Sound Kayak Tour | Around Sarah Point
Description
The almost endless diversity of this region, our local knowledge, flexible approach and professional touch provided us with the opportunity to create some unique one-way tours. During this unique ‘three day – one way tour’ we paddle around a locally well-known landmark, Sarah Point. This tour starts in Okeover Inlet and ends in Lund Harbour. We’ll enjoy the beauty of Desolation Sound and the Copeland Islands, never having to see the same location more than once.
Tour Highlights
During this 3-day tour we’ll have ample time to explore the ‘best of 2 worlds’. Feel embraced by Desolation Sound and surrounding mountains. The Salish Sea will offer panoramic views towards the peaks and glaciers on Vancouver Island. We’ll follow the rugged Malaspina Peninsula shoreline and depending on group goals and preferences we can set up base-camp for 2 nights or move on every day. A dark night might reveal ‘a wonder of light’, bioluminescence frequently occurs during warm summer months. We also could spend some time on kayak-fishing or collecting shellfish, such as oysters. The catch of the day will be added to our meal-plan.
Duration / Distance
A maximum of 8 – 10 Nautical Miles (approx. 14 – 18km / 9 – 11mi) per paddling day. Distance will also depend on group preferences and goals, weather conditions, currents and tides. It takes some time to complete packing and a pre-tour instruction on the first day of the tour, we aim to be back in Lund Harbour between 3pm and 4pm on the final day. It will speed up the start of a tour if Medical Information Forms and Liability Waivers are filled out and signed prior to the tour.
Age restrictions / Height & Weight Limits
Our youngest participants are about 4 years old and our most experienced paddlers have been in their 80’s! Just ask us if you have any doubt about this tour being suitable for your abilities.
In order to ensure your comfort and safety, participants who have primary control of the kayak (the ones with the rudder pedals) should be of sufficient age, height, weight and maturity to do so.
Please note: Your guide will always have the authority to make the final decision on kayak configuration and safety related issues. ‘Safety first, fun will follow.’
Conditions / Skill level
Paddle routes during this tour are within the sheltered class 2 waters of Desolation Sound. However, during this tour you might be exposed to some wind, waves, mild currents and boat wakes. Your guide will choose the route most appropriate for weather, tides, mild currents and group.
Camping will take place within the marine park on designated campsites. Tent platforms and an outhouse are the facilities that BC Parks has provided for our comfort.
No experience necessary! This guided tour is appropriate for beginners.
Guide to participant ratio
One guide up to a maximum of six participants
Included
Single or 2-person ocean tour kayak (3-person when a centre hatch seat is added)
All required kayak safety gear and equipment
All required camping gear and equipment
All meals during the tour
Backcountry Camping Permit
Dry-bags
Not Included
Personal items, we provide a detailed ‘Suggested Gear List’ prior to the tour
Tidal Fishing Licence and fishing gear
Gratuities
4-day Desolation Sound Kayak Tour | A Chatham Discovery
Description
Desolation Sound is truly a kayaker’s paradise. Paddling amongst the towering mountains of the BC’s Coastal Mountain range is an awe-inspiring adventure. This 4-day tour will provide us with the opportunity to explore Desolation Sound, just like Captain George Vancouver did in 1792.
Tour Highlights
We’ll settle down in the heart of Desolation Sound on the first or second day of this tour, the Curme Islands or Bold Head are both excellent campsites. We can explore Desolation Sound in multiple directions and get a feel for the different areas in Desolation Sound. Such as sheltered Tenados Bay, with the option for a short hike and refreshing swim in Unwin Lake or paddle through a maze of islands and narrow passages in Prideaux Haven. Everlasting memories will be carved into your memory during this tour.
Duration / Distance
A maximum of 8 – 10 Nautical Miles (approx. 14 – 18km / 9 – 11mi) per paddling day. Distance will also depend on group preferences and goals, weather conditions, currents and tides. It takes some time to complete packing and a pre-tour instruction on the first day of the tour, we aim to be back at Desolation Sound Resort between 3pm and 4pm on the final day. It will speed up the start of a tour if Medical Information Forms and Liability Waivers are filled out and signed prior to the tour.
Age restrictions / Height & Weight Limits
Our youngest participants are about 4 years old and our most experienced paddlers have been in their 80’s! Just ask us if you have any doubt about this tour being suitable for your abilities.
In order to ensure your comfort and safety, participants who have primary control of the kayak (the ones with the rudder pedals) should be of sufficient age, height, weight and maturity to do so.
Please note: Your guide will always have the authority to make the final decision on kayak configuration and safety related issues. ‘Safety first, fun will follow.’
Conditions / Skill level
Paddle routes during this tour are within the sheltered class 2 waters of Desolation Sound. However, during this tour you might be exposed to some wind, waves, mild currents and boat wakes. Your guide will choose the route most appropriate for weather, tides, mild currents and group.
Camping will take place within the marine park on designated campsites. Tent platforms and an outhouse are the facilities that BC Parks has provided for our comfort.
No experience necessary! This guided tour is appropriate for beginners.
Guide to participant ratio
One guide up to a maximum of six participants
Included
Single or 2-person ocean tour kayak (3-person when a centre hatch seat is added)
All required kayak safety gear and equipment
All required camping gear and equipment
All meals during the tour
Backcountry Camping Permit
Dry-bags
Not Included
Personal items, we provide a detailed ‘Suggested Gear List’ prior to the tour
Tidal Fishing Licence and fishing gear
Gratuities
5-day Desolation Sound Kayak Tour | Wildly Beautiful Desolation Sound
Description
Carved into the remote Canadian wilderness, the pointed peaks of BC’s Coastal Mountain Range topple steeply to the water’s edge. A densely forested coastline and countless idyllic islands and inlets provide for a one-of-kind kayak adventure.
Tour Highlights
The rugged terrain has stopped any road access into Desolation Sound. Kayaks are the best way to visit this majestic area, only kayaks can access all shallow nooks and crannies. We’ll settle down in the heart of Desolation Sound on the first or second day of this tour, the Curme Islands or Bold Head are both excellent campsites. During this tour, we’ll be able to visit all well-known highlights in Desolation Sound such as Tenados Bay and Prideax Haven. A fantastic new scenery around every corner, rocky islands where seals often haul out, steep cliffs where sea birds nest and thousands of colourful sea stars. Sorkeling is just one of the options during this tour.
Duration / Distance
A maximum of 8 – 10 Nautical Miles (approx. 14 – 18km / 9 – 11mi) per paddling day. Distance will also depend on group preferences and goals, weather conditions, currents and tides. It takes some time to complete packing and a pre-tour instruction on the first day of the tour, we aim to be back at Desolation Sound Resort between 3pm and 4pm on the final day. It will speed up the start of a tour if Medical Information Forms and Liability Waivers are filled out and signed prior to the tour.
Age restrictions / Height & Weight Limits
Our youngest participants are about 4 years old and our most experienced paddlers have been in their 80’s! Just ask us if you have any doubt about this tour being suitable for your abilities.
In order to ensure your comfort and safety, participants who have primary control of the kayak (the ones with the rudder pedals) should be of sufficient age, height, weight and maturity to do so.
Please note: Your guide will always have the authority to make the final decision on kayak configuration and safety related issues. ‘Safety first, fun will follow.’
Conditions / Skill level
Paddle routes during this tour are within the sheltered class 2 waters of Desolation Sound. However, during this tour you might be exposed to some wind, waves, mild currents and boat wakes. Your guide will choose the route most appropriate for weather, tides, mild currents and group.
Camping will take place within the marine park on designated campsites. Tent platforms and an outhouse are the facilities that BC Parks has provided for our comfort.
No experience necessary! This guided tour is appropriate for beginners.
Guide to participant ratio
One guide up to a maximum of six participants
Included
Single or 2-person ocean tour kayak (3-person when a centre hatch seat is added)
All required kayak safety gear and equipment
All required camping gear and equipment
All meals during the tour
Backcountry Camping Permit
Dry-bags
Not Included
Personal items, we provide a detailed ‘Suggested Gear List’ prior to the tour
Tidal Fishing Licence and fishing gear
Gratuities