Kayaking in Nanaimo, BC
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21 results
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Brentwood Bay Dynamic Coastal Exploration (5 hrs.)
by Pacifica Paddle SportsThe air is fresh, the sky is blue, and the sound of serenity fills every moment of your generous Brentwood Bay 5-hour coastal exploration. The easy-moving waters and sheltered bay make this a tour that even a first-time paddler will enjoy. Marvelous coastline scattered with rugged rock outcroppings and bursting with greenery makes for seriously stunning photo opportunities! Your guide will tell you all about the enchanting scene that surrounds you, then steer you to a divine beach where you’ll take pleasure in a self-packed picnic lunch. Explore, relax and rejuvenate with the Brentwood Bay Dynamic Coastal Exploration kayak tour. You can look forward to viewing diverse wildlife, including seals, bald eagles, black oyster catchers, blue herons and an amazing amount of inter-tidal life. Pack your own lunch, or ask Pacifica Paddle Sports to have one prepared for you (additional fee.) Pacifica Paddle Sports operates a small retail store at the launch site. Ready to fuel back up post-tour? Try the great fare found at the launch site café.
Brentwood Bay, BC (75 km from Nanaimo)
$95 CAD Per Person -
Birding by Kayak (5 hrs.)
by Pacifica Paddle SportsAs you might guess, the focus of this leisurely paddle is maritime birds. A kayak’s stealthy nature makes it an ideal way to enter their habitat without being disruptive, maximizing your observation opportunity! Your kayak guide and an experienced local birder will help you become familiar with identifying and understanding local bird species and offer you the opportunity to surround yourself with the impressive rugged terrain they call home. You may spot other wildlife, including seals, bald eagles, black oyster catchers, blue heron and an amazing amount of inter-tidal life. This tour starts in the Oak Bay area, either at the Oak Bay Marina parking lot, or Ten Mile Point. Ready to fuel back up post-tour? Try the great fare found at the launch site café.
Victoria, BC (92 km from Nanaimo)
$89 CAD Per Person -
Paddle Beautiful Brentwood Bay and Tod Inlet (3 hrs.)
by Pacifica Paddle SportsThe gentle sound of water splashing against your kayak and the lovely call of a bird may be all you hear as you head out to explore Brentwood Bay and Tod Inlet. Stunning coastlines and wildlife punctuate the alluring waters you’ll traverse. Your guide will enlighten you about the charming scene that surrounds you and guide you through waterways once traveled by the earliest of Victoria’s pioneers. If you’re short on time but hoping to get a glimpse of picturesque Victoria from the water-side, this is the ideal tour for you. Plus, the gentle water conditions eagerly invite paddlers of all levels. You can look forward to viewing diverse wildlife, including seals, bald eagles, black oyster catchers, blue heron and an amazing amount of inter-tidal species. Along your tour, you’ll see the rustic remains of one of the Island’s early brick factories. Pacifica Paddle Sports operates a small retail store at the launch site. Ready to fuel back up post-tour? Try the great fare found at the launch site café.
Brentwood Bay, BC (75 km from Nanaimo)
$70 CAD Per Person -
Paddling Encounter with the Intertidal Zone (4 hrs.)
by Pacifica Paddle SportsThe intertidal zone is the part of the shoreline that is exposed and covered every day as the tide moves in and out. Paddling the intertidal zone in the comfort of an easy-to-guide kayak is a sensational way to explore the rich and distinctive life forms found in this exceptional environment. You’ll be shocked at the variety of life waiting to be discovered. Your paddle is leisurely and your guide is informative. You’ll complete your tour with an authentic, first-hand understanding of what lies just below the surface of this dynamic shore. You can look forward to viewing diverse wildlife, including seals, bald eagles, Black oyster catchers, Blue heron and an amazing amount of inter-tidal life. Tours may include wading in shallow water and walking on exposed sea bed. Pacifica Paddle Sports operates a small retail store at the launch site. Ready to fuel back up post-tour? Try the great fare found at the launch site café.
Brentwood Bay, BC (75 km from Nanaimo)
$85 CAD Per Person -
Paddle Victoria's Historic Action-Packed Inner Harbour (2.5 hrs.)
by Switch Bridge ToursInvigorate your spirit and enlighten your mind. Soon after you set off from the lovely sheltered waters of Selkirk Waterway, Victoria’s historic Inner Harbour presents herself. Your guide graciously unravels a string of historic moments, while the hustle and bustle of seaplanes, harbour ferries and other vessels remind you that this port is alive and well. You may even catch a peek at Victoria’s celebrated lively harbour seals. Small group size of no more than five paddlers ensures adequate one-on-one instructional time. Switch Bridge Tours takes pride in keeping their safe, stable kayaks in tip-top condition. Tour begins in the sheltered Selkirk Waterway.
Victoria, BC (92 km from Nanaimo)
$65 CAD Per Person -
Paddle Tantalizing Tod Inlet (4.5 hrs.)
by Switch Bridge ToursYou’ll travel through West Saanich farm country and arrive at Brentwood Bay, where you’ll launch at Tod Inlet and begin your much-anticipated kayak outing. Serenity surrounds you almost immediately. Your guide will direct you through waterways that were once traveled by the region’s early explorers, as wildlife such as river otters and seals play and amazing birds cruise overhead. Welcome to your paddle of Tod Inlet; it’s shaping up to be one perfectly peaceful day. Small group size of no more than five paddlers ensures adequate one on one instructional time. Switch Bridge Tours takes pride in keeping their safe, stable kayaks in tip-top condition.
Victoria, BC (92 km from Nanaimo)
$89 CAD Per Person -
Learn to Paddle on the Waters of Victoria (2.5 hrs.)
by Switch Bridge ToursLearn to kayak while enjoying stunning views of Victoria as it can only be experienced from the water. Whether you’re new to the sport,or just want to sharpen your paddling skills, Switch Bridge Tours instructors will tailor their instruction to your needs. You can expect to learn different paddling techniques as well as basic and emergency safety procedures and the important rules of boat traffic. With Victoria’s historical Inner Harbour as a backdrop and beautiful blue waters beneath, we can’t think of a better place to hone your paddling skills! Learn to cruise alongside a variety of vessels, such as seaplanes, harbour ferries and tug boats, with confidence. Small group size of no more than five paddlers ensures adequate one-on-one instructional time. Switch Bridge Tours takes pride in keeping their safe, stable kayaks in tip-top condition. Tour begins in the sheltered Selkirk Waterway.
Victoria, BC (92 km from Nanaimo)
$65 CAD Per Person -
Guided Half-Day Island Exploration
by A Paddle in the ParkThis half day guided kayak tour is ideal for beginners or those who desire to connect with nature by enjoying a leisurely paddle through captivating ocean shores and secluded inter-tidal zones. Locations explored include Lewis Bay, a well-liked harbour seal hang-out and Musclow Islet, where a mating pair of Mute swans have made their home. View abundant wildlife in fantastically scenic habitat while gliding in the comfort of your own easy-to-maneuver kayak. A professionally certified kayak guide serves as your leader. This guided kayak experience takes you on a journey through small channels and islets. Fascinating geological rock formations dot the shores, rich blue skies are typically found overhead, and smooth waters make for comfortable travel. Spotting the occasional shell midden serves as a reminder of the area’s rich first nations history. You’ll stop at a beach to stretch your legs and take pleasure in a self-packed picnic lunch.
Sidney, BC (69 km from Nanaimo)
$80 CAD Per Person (4 hours total) -
Guided Full-Day Gulf Islands Kayak Excursion
by A Paddle in the ParkThis full-day guided kayak tour allows you to investigate beaches and islands that are more remote than those traversed with the half day tour. Sink your toes into white sandy beaches, capture images of the remarkable rock bluffs on Hood and Coal Islands, or simply sit back and absorb it all. After a few hours exploring these islands you’ll likely forget the rest of the world exists — and that’s well worth the paddle, isn’t it? This tour is best suited for those in good physical condition with previous paddling experience. A professionally certified kayak guide serves as your leader. Your guide will select the most appropriate islands to visit given current direction and wind conditions. Each island offers a unique experience. Grand mountains serve as the backdrop to soaring blue herons, glistening waters, and fascinating rock formations. Once on land, discover succulents in bloom, a beautiful arbutus grove or congregation of starfish at low tide. You’ll stop for a good lunch break, offering you time to enjoy a self-packed picnic lunch, stretch your legs and explore, explore, explore!
Sidney, BC (69 km from Nanaimo)
$120 CAD Per Person (6-7 hours total) -
Sunset Paddling Voyage (2.5 hr.)
by A Paddle in the ParkThis 2.5-hour guided kayak tour takes place as the sun sits low on the horizon, emitting that special kind of glow only a sunset over the water emits. The relaxed pace of this tour offers you ample time to enjoy the sunset ambiance, chat with new friends, or share a magical moment with that special someone. You’ll navigate sheltered islets and shores, making for optimal paddling conditions suitable for all experience levels. A professionally certified kayak guide serves as your leader. View magnificent bursts of color as the sun dips below the horizon. A pink and purple marbled sky transforms into one glowing with radiance. The special light of sunset offers an exceptionally grand opportunity for picture taking. This tour is offered in June, July and August only.
Sidney, BC (69 km from Nanaimo)
$70 CAD Per Person (2.5 hours total) -
Tsehum Harbour Sea Exploration (2 hrs.)
by A Paddle in the ParkThis two-hour guided kayak tour is ideal for families or those with limited time. Explore the gentle waters of Tsehum Harbour, complete with a cove, lagoon, beach, and did we mention expressive Pacific Harbour seals, seabirds, mink and river otters too? This is a fabulous introduction to kayaking and wonderful way to get a taste of the natural beauty that abounds off shore. A professionally certified kayak guide serves as your leader. Children aged 7 years or older are welcomed when riding in a tandem with a parent. At lower tides, expect to see a sociable group of Pacific Harbour seals frolicking on the rocks. At higher tides, see seals poking their heads out of the water, often greeting visitors with their distinctive voice. Tsehum Harbour is completely protected and free from boat traffic.
Sidney, BC (69 km from Nanaimo)
$60 CAD Per Person (2 hours total) -
Sweeping the Southern Vancouver Island Coastline (3-5 hrs.)
by Switch Bridge ToursThis kayak tour of the southern Vancouver Island coastline will impress you with historic sites, delight you with a variety of stunning birds, and refresh you with a break on a lovely sandy beach. You’ll begin by paddling beyond striking Fisgard Lighthouse National Historic Site, and past the notable shoreline of Fort Rodd Hill, rich with military history. Then, you’ll arrive at Esquimalt Lagoon, a migratory bird sanctuary with picturesque shores and magnificent outcroppings lush with forest. Next, you’ll disembark and spend a few moments recharging on a beautiful sandy beach that sits below the imposing century-old Hatley Castle. Come along, there’s lots to explore! This tour takes about 3-4 hours to complete, depending on the speed of the paddlers. Please allow 5 hours to complete this excursion. A hearty lunch can be packed for you! (additional fee) The bird sanctuary at Esquimalt Lagoon offers you the opportunity to catch a glimpse of gulls, ducks, geese, swans, terns, herons, kingfishers and eagles, as well as many other bird species.
Victoria, BC (92 km from Nanaimo)
$89 CAD Per Person -
Dynamic Kayak Day Tour
by Victoria Kayak ToursIf you’re hoping for a day that takes you away from it all, Victoria Kayak’s Dynamic Day Tour is here to offer you all that you desire. As you begin, your naturalist guide will lead you along the Strait of Juan de Fuca. From the ultimate vantage point offered by your kayak, you observe islands that seem to have exploded out of the sea, exposing rugged shoreline and rich forest. Next you’ll have the joy of resting for lunch at the oldest lighthouse in western Canada. Then, tide permitting, you’ll travel a mysterious lagoon and tour Royal Roads Castle, a common film location. Tour is approximately 6 hours. Kayaks are stable, easily maneuverable and nearly effortless to learn. Full orientation to the kayak is provided pre-tour. Guide is a naturalist who enthusiastically shares his or her knowledge.
Victoria, BC (92 km from Nanaimo)
$125 CAD Per Person (14+) -
Sensational Seal Island Tour
by Victoria Kayak ToursYou’ll begin your journey to Seal Island from historic Victoria Harbour, finding the view of the city from the water simply spectacular! As the sun dances on the water and fresh sea air fills your lungs, you can tell a special moment is arriving. Your naturalist guide will graciously orient you to the landscape and point out any numbers of shore and sea birds, otters, seals, porpoise, or even the occasional whale. You’ll paddle to the Strait of Juan de Fuca and Seal Island. Once you arrive, you’ll see that the island is aptly named! You’ll find the island teeming with adorable seals poking their heads out of the water, sunning on rocks, and playing to their heart’s delight. It’s a wonderful opportunity to see wildlife in its natural habitat. Tour is approximately 2.5 hours. Kayaks are stable, easily maneuverable and nearly effortless to learn. Full orientation to the kayak is provided pre-tour. Eagles, osprey, heron, black oyster catchers and auks are some of the birds commonly viewed on this tour. Guide is a naturalist who enthusiastically shares his or her knowledge.
Victoria, BC (92 km from Nanaimo)
$59 CAD Per Person (14+) -
Interpretive Canoe Tour (2 hrs.)
by Takaya Tours First Nation Canoe & Kayak AdventuresFrom the moment your enthusiastic Tsleil-Waututh guide greets you and you settle into Takaya Tours replica Coast Salish canoe, you’ll feel like an honored guest in a very special world. Enjoy an interpretive paddle through the quiet, protected waters of lovely Burrard Inlet and unspoiled Indian Arm while listening to traditional drumming and learning about customs and history through time-honored songs and stories. This enriching experience will leave you feeling inspired and provide you with a greater understanding of the distinctive Coast Salish culture both past and present. Takaya Tours is owned and operated by the Tsleil-Waututh Nation. The Tsleil-Waututh people have lived in the region for thousands of years. Tsleil-Waututh is pronounced “slay-wah-tuth”. This activity is suitable for people of all fitness levels.
North Vancouver, BC (66 km from Nanaimo)
$60 CAD Per Person -
Combination Walking and Canoe Tour (2.25 hrs.)
by Takaya Tours First Nation Canoe & Kayak AdventuresThis special tour combines the best of two amazing excursions; the rainforest walking tour and the interpretive canoe tour. First, your knowledgeable Tsleil-Waututh guide will lead you into the heart of Tsleil-Waututh Territory, where you’ll discover stunning rainforest and ancestral trails of Whey-Ah-Whichen. As you explore this very special place, you’ll learn how to identify a variety of plant species, and discover their customary uses. You’ll also be treated to traditional legends, drumming and songs which offer a peek into this remarkable culture. Then, enjoy an hour journey in a replica Coast Salish canoe. Your interpretive paddle will take you through the quiet, protected waters of lovely Burrard Inlet and unspoiled Indian Arm. You’ll listen to traditional drumming and learn about customs and history through time-honored songs and stories. This enriching experience will leave you feeling inspired and provide you with a greater understanding of the distinctive Coast Salish culture both past and present. Takaya Tours is owned and operated by the Tsleil-Waututh Nation. The Tsleil-Waututh people have lived in the region for thousands of years. Tsleil-Waututh is pronounced “slay-wah-tuth”. This activity is suitable for people of all fitness levels.
North Vancouver, BC (66 km from Nanaimo)
$50 CAD Per Person -
Double Kayak Rental
by Cowichan Bay KayakThere’s something special about sharing a kayak; discovering amazing scenes and wonderful wildlife in tandem is a unique experience that’s perfect for couples or those with young children. Jump into your double kayak and begin creating a memory together. Maybe you’ll enjoy a picnic lunch on a remote shoreline, search for regal birds, or simply paddle casually and enjoy re-connecting with one another. Bring your camera, because the quiet, calm nature of a kayak will help you spot many of Mother Nature’s treasures- seals, otters, bald eagles and great blue herons to name just a few! Kayak rental available April-October. The calm waters of Cowichan Bay provide a comfortable, safe environment for kayaking. Cowichan Bay Kayak & Outfitters carries a fleet of single and double Seaward and Necky Touring kayaks. All rentals must be returned by 6:00pm or dusk, whichever is earlier.
Cowichan Bay, BC (53 km from Nanaimo)
$40 CAD Per 2 Hours -
Canoe Rental
by Brentwood Bay ResortHave you wondered what treasures the waters of Brentwood Bay hold? Rent a canoe and embark on a discovery. Canoes have long traversed the waters of Brentwood Bay, enabling generations of adventurers to explore isolated coastal shorelines, discover quaint inlets, and peruse rocky outcroppings. Get settled in your comfortable canoe and head out for a few hours, or a full day on the water; there’s lots of beauty to discover! Be sure to pack a camera, because the shallow nature of a canoe allows you to investigate splendid regions unreachable by other vessels. Best yet, its unobtrusive nature minimizes wildlife disturbance. You’re likely to spot a vibrant collection of wildlife, including seals, bald eagles, black oyster catchers, and blue heron. The sound of the paddle breaking water will relax you, the fresh air will invigorate you, and the landscape will inspire you. There’s no doubt; canoeing is a brilliant outdoor activity! The water is sheltered, making this canoeing adventure suitable to all experience levels. Head out to Todd Inlet, push on to Senanus Island for a pleasureful picnic, or take it easy with an unchartered cruise! Canoe rentals are available April 1st – October 15
Brentwood Bay, BC (75 km from Nanaimo)
$65 CAD Per Day -
Kayak Rental
by Brentwood Bay ResortA kayak offers an idyllic way to traverse tranquil waters to explore isolated coastal shorelines, discover quaint inlets, and peruse rocky outcroppings. Get settled in your comfortable, easy to maneuver kayak and head out for a few hours, or a full day on the water- there’s lots of beauty to discover! Be sure to pack a camera, because the shallow nature of a kayak allows you to investigate splendid regions unreachable by other vessels. Best yet, its unobtrusive nature minimizes wildlife disturbance. You’re likely to spot a vibrant collection of wildlife, including seals, bald eagles, Black oyster catchers, and Blue heron. As soon as your paddle hits the water, you know you’re in for a relaxing, enlivening experience. This rental is available in two hour, three hour or full-day increments. Double kayaks are available! A great choice for couples and/or those with small children. The water is sheltered, making this a kayak excursion suitable to all experience levels. Travel by paddle to Todd Inlet, push on to Senanus Island for a pleasureful picnic, or take it easy with an unchartered cruise! Kayak rentals are available April 1st – October 15
Brentwood Bay, BC (75 km from Nanaimo)
$45 CAD Per Day -
Single Kayak Rental
by Cowichan Bay KayakSerene, peaceful waters, sprinkled with beautiful wildlife are waiting for you in historic Cowichan Bay. Depart from Cowichan Bay Kayak & Outfitters’ private dock in Cowichan Bay, and begin your voyage of discovery- just as the First Nations people have done for thousands of years. The hassles of a hectic life evaporate as you paddle off to explore a remote shoreline and enjoy a picnic lunch, or simply cruise the Bay for wildlife. The quiet, calm nature of a kayak will help you spot many of Mother Nature’s treasures- seals, otters, bald eagles and great blue herons to name just a few! Kayak rental available April-October. The calm waters of Cowichan Bay provide a comfortable, safe environment for kayaking. Cowichan Bay Kayak & Outfitters carries a fleet of single and double Seaward and Necky Touring kayaks. All rentals must be returned by 6:00pm or dusk, whichever is earlier.
Cowichan Bay, BC (53 km from Nanaimo)
$30 CAD Per 2 Hours -
Sansum Narrows Kayak Exploration (full day)
by Cowichan Bay KayakYou may have heard that kayaking the Southern Gulf Islands is a must-do. Here’s a wonderful opportunity to see what it’s all about. You’ll launch from Cowichan Bay Kayak & Outfitters’ private dock in historic Cowichan Bay, under the care of an experienced guide. You’ll paddle in the vicinity of Mt Tzouhalem and then into the wilds of Sansum Narrows where abundant wildlife waits. Paddle by delightful seals and otters; grab your binoculars and spy for a magnificent bald eagle, or an impressive great blue heron. There’s no shortage of treasures! Then, when it’s time to revitalize, you’ll head to shore and enjoy a picnic lunch. Once you’re energized, you’re off for more exploring before heading back to Cowichan Bay via Cherry Point. Tour is approximately 7 hours in length. Tour may include a crossing to Salt Spring Island. Minimum of 2 participants. Cowichan Bay Kayak & Outfitters carries a fleet of single and double Seaward and Necky Touring kayaks.
Cowichan Bay, BC (53 km from Nanaimo)
$120 CAD Per Person
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