FAQs
What do the kayaking trip costs include?
All equipment, guiding and meals during your kayaking trip. Our camping trips include all meals from lunch the first day to lunch on the last day. On the 'Spirit Bear:' dinner on the evening of arrival to breakfast on departure day; no need for hotels as all nights are aboard. Not included: hotel lodging, transportation to and from your departure point.
How much experience do I need?
NONE! We design every kayaking trip for people at all levels of experience. Other than those who have traveled with us before, most of our guests will be kayaking for the first time.
Is it safe?
No one has ever had a serious kayaking injury on any of our trips in our 24 years of experience. Our number one concern while you are with us is your safety. Our guides are trained in wilderness First Aid and carry First Aid kits and two-way marine radios.
Will I be uncomfortable, cold or wet?
Everyone enjoys the wilderness more when they are comfortable, warm and dry. Summer weather is very pleasant in the Pacific Northwest, with average daytime temperatures in the 70's. For campers, we provide a luxurious sleeping pad and pillow. Your tents are roomy and dry. For days with rain, we provide all the specialized camping and kayaking gear you need to stay comfortable.
What are the people like?
Our guests are active and involved and enjoy sharing. We provide a friendly, supportive environment; you do the rest.The ages of most of our guests range from the mid-twenties through mid-sixties. Our minimum age for our trips is 14. Our Spirit Bear Voyages have no age limit. There is no maximum age. Maximum group size is 14 guests with three guides, and almost all our kayaking trips have 10 guests with two guides.
What if I'm by myself?
There is no reason you can't come alone! Less than half of our guests are couples. Please call us with any concerns.
How much do I need to get in shape?
Pre-trip time spent in any activity that uses your upper body will help you enjoy your adventure with us. Expect a moderate workout every kayaking day. We do require that anyone over 65 or with any health or weight concerns consult us before signing up to make sure you are up to fully participating. In the unlikely event of a capsize, it will be necessary to re-enter the kayak from the water, with the guides' help.
While the seats in our kayaks are comfortable for most people, extremely heavy people will not be able to be comfortable in the kayaks. In addition, those people may not be able to participate for reasons of safety. If you believe you may not be able to fit comfortably and safely in a kayak, please call our office and talk with one of our staff before making a trip reservation.
When is the best time to go?
Any of our kayaking trips offer a great chance of excellent conditions. We expect an average of only one day with rain each week. June and September are special because you'll see the fewest other people. You'll see hundreds of eagles in June. July through October are best for whales. June and September are our guides' favorites.
How much time do we spend with whales?
On Inside Passage trips (WIldlife Discovery & Orca Humpback Odysseys), we see whales a number of times on most trips. On any of these occasions we may have very close encounters. The 'Spirit Bear' has great ability to encounter and travel near whales.
For our Wild Orca Adventures, we expect to see whales on average twice a day. Some days we may see them five or six times. This includes from camp and from our kayaks.
The optional whale watching boat day trip gives you the opportunity to spend several more hours viewing whales and gives you great photo opportunities. Orcas, minke whales and humpback whales are all common to this area.
Where will we camp?
We choose sites for their beauty and solitude. Each has beautiful views and lookouts for whales and other wildlife. On the 'Spirit Bear,' we will anchor in remote coves and bays.
Will we be able to bathe?
We carry sun-heated "solar showers." Near some camps are freshwater streams or secluded ocean spots for a brisk bath. On board the 'Spirit Bear:' hot showers.
What should I bring?
Just a sleeping bag (not needed on the 'Spirit Bear'). Upon signing up, you'll get an informative handbook that includes a detailed list of clothing and other recommended items for your kayaking trip.
When do I need to be there?
- Inside Passage (Wildlife Discovery & Orca Humpback Odyssey) and Wild Orca Adventures: the evening before we begin, for a pre-trip orientation in Port McNeill.
- Spirit Bear Voyages: 5:00 pm on the trip's first day, at the boat (Port McNeill harbor).
- Grizzly Watching: 7:30 am in Telegraph Cove.
- Whale Watching: 9am in Port McNeill.
How do I get there?
Our meeting points are easy to get to from anywhere. Port McNeill is near the north end of Vancouver Island and easily accessible by car, commercial airline or sea plane.
