Kayak with Orcas in British Columbia's Johnstone Straight with Orca Kayak Trips

Orca Kayak Tours - FAQ

To find out more about our other trips including day tours and lodge based trips in British Columbia please visit kayak british columbia and kayak tours with orcas

What is the group size on your Orca kayak tours?
We keep the group size as small as possible, between 6-10 guests and 2 guides on each tour.

What about safety?
Safety always comes first. As one of the few companies we invest in safety training and equipment maintenance. Each year our guides refresh their skills and train at rescue, first aid, surfing, whitewater and other seminars. We use only the best kayak and safety equipment available. For communication in remote areas, our guides have VHF radios as well as high power cell phones. Coastal Spirits guides are skilled, well educated, dedicated professional outdoor leaders. Our guides also hold certificates in Wilderness First Aid.

Is there any kayaking experience required to join your Orca kayak tours?
No. Anyone, regardless of his or her level of experience and abilities, can enjoy our kayak tours. We offer kayaking instruction and safety procedures before setting out on our adventures. Many of our guests are first-time kayakers and our guides are experts at helping everyone relax and enjoy their journey.

What are the physical requirements?
Average physical health is required. You should be capable of a few hours of moderate exercise each day. If you have any health problems, let us know when you are making your reservation so that we will be able to accommodate your needs and abilities.

What are the age requirements?
Please contact the orca kayak trip office at info@kayakbritishcolumbia.com for minimum age requirements. An adventurous spirit and average fitness level is more important than age. Our base camp is also perfect for families.

How many hours per day do you paddle during your Orca kayak tours?
Paddling time on an Orca Kayak Tour is dependent on weather, whale sightings and ocean conditions as well as the group's abilities and desires. Our guides will also adapt to the groups performance. Our trips also include short rain forest walks, wildlife and plant interpretation and education, sweat lodge, bird watching, swimming, camp fire, enjoying great food, beachcombing, and, of course, time to rest, relax and enjoy the scenery and some of the best views on this wonderful planet.

How stable are the kayaks? Can they flip over?
We have double and single kayaks available. The kayaks we use on our tours are very stable and are designed for comfort. The likelihood of a capsize in a double kayak is minimal. If you are a beginner you should ask for a double kayak which is much more stable than a single. Before we embark, we go over safety procedures, which includes preparation for rescues. If for some reason your kayak flips over, our experienced guides will help you get upright quickly and efficiently.

How is the weather in this area? What about weather related cancellations?
Our weather in the Pacific Northwest is generally pleasant from April through the end of September, air and water temperatures vary, depending on the areas you plan to tour. We suggest our visitors be prepared for any type of weather by bringing a jacket and sweater, along with your usual summer clothing. Layering clothing is an easy way to be prepared. If it is cool, you'll be comfortable; if it warms up, you can always remove a layer. Weather related cancellations rarely happen, delays might happen though, if the weather is really bad.

Are insects a concern during your Orca kayak tours?
Not really, but you might encounter a few mosquitos depending on where your tour is scheduled. Due to the proximity to the ocean we have much less bugs than other places. Still, it never hurts to have some Deet or Off! in your personal kit. If you have allergic reactions to any insects, please let us know and bring appropriate medication with you.

What should I bring?
We provide high quality tents, fully equipped high tech sea kayaks and safety equipment, dry bags for personal gear protection and freshly prepared gourmet meals. You should bring your regular summer clothing, sleeping bag and mattress (you can rent bags and pads), sun block, warm clothes including a jacket or coat, waterproof sandals or beach shoes, a hat, sunglasses, rain gear and any personal items you'd like. When your reservation is confirmed, we'll send you a package of information including this list.

What sort of wildlife can I expect to see?
The Pacific Northwest is home to some of the most abundant and diverse wildlife populations in the world. The chance of seeing Orcas is very high. On land and water, you'll also see sea- and shorebirds, waterfowl, mink, otters, seals, sea lions, dolphins, whales, deer, raccoons, cougars, wolves and bears and the always present bald eagle. If you are interested in a particular animal, inquire when you make your reservation.

Are there opportunities to wash? Are there toilets?
For your convenience we have hot solar solar shower bags available. For washing, we must request you use biodegradable, environmentally-friendly brands of soaps and cleaners to protect the environment. An outhouse is available as well.

What kind of food do you offer?
Italian, Mexican, Japanese, Korean, German.....You name it!
We pride ourselves on the excellent food we provide for those on our trips There is nothing like a delicious meal in the great outdoors! We even have a barbecue grill in camp. Our guides take pride in preparing wholesome, fresh meals. Sometimes we catch and collect fresh sea food to introduce our guests to the famous coastal cuisine. Vegetarian meals are also available upon request.