Gulf Islands Kayaking
Galiano Island, British Columbia

(We also offer full Expeditions and the Paddler's Challenge)

No experience necessary for most of our trips!

At Gulf Islands Kayaking we specialize in introducing beginners to sea kayaking with a relaxed, easy-paced approach. A group size limited to 6 ensures that individual attention and instruction are received.

Whether you choose one of our day tours, or a longer camping trip, your dockside orientation will be a good introduction to the sport; covering essential kayaking safety and paddling techniques. This will inspire confidence and prepare you to explore the unique environment of the Canadian Gulf Islands.

What's so special about Galiano?

Galiano Island is well known in the Canadian paddling world for having Trincomali Channel, which is a long tract of calm, protected water with minimal tide. We enjoy a unique micro-climate with more sun, less wind and rain than anywhere else on the northwest coast. At the same time on either end of the island are Active Pass or Porlier Pass, with strong tides and currents which offer greater challenge for the more experienced paddler.

The protected side of the Channel has flora, fauna and amazing landscapes of sculpted sandstone cliffs. This area has a resident population of cormorants, herons, and other sea birds, as well as otters, seals, and eagles. It is also a part of our coast's Orca migration path with pods that can include up to 30 or 50 whales travelling together.

There are also small islands to circumnavigate such as Parker, Wise, Sphinx, Julia and the Battingall Islets.

Montague Marina is a popular docking spot for yachts, cruisers and classic boats. The Marina has a café and small grocery store where you can pick up a few essentials. While the harbour is a popular waterway, there is a high level of courtesy for small-crafts that many of our experienced clients have not enjoyed elsewhere.

All day tours are launched from beautiful Montague Harbour, a sheltered cove on the west side of Galiano Island. Essentials to bring are: sunhat, sunglasses, sunscreen, sandals, windbreaker, and drinking water. Waterproof hatches are available for cameras, binoculars, and personal effects. We paddle with the motto “It's not the destination, it's the journey.” Gulf Islands Kayaking tours cater to people - not speed.

Please call or email in advance to ensure a place for yourself on the tour.

See our Rental page for current prices.

Prices subject to change without notice.
Prices listed are in Canadian dollars.

PADDLING WITH CURRENTS (5 HRS)
A new tour for intermediate and experienced paddlers who wish to explore the pleasures and excitement of currents in Active Pass or Porlier Pass (Dionisio Point).

EARLY BIRD (3 HRS)
Enjoy a quiet morning paddle usually starting at about 9 am. Bring along a thermos of coffee and a snack. If we are lucky the bakery boat will be in the harbour luring even the most timid beginner from the shore with the scent of freshly baked bread, pies and cinnamon buns.

AFTERNOON PADDLE (4HRS)
Kayak in sheltered waters surrounded by islands, cliffs and sunning seals. You'll have time to pull up on a beach, unpack your picnic basket, hunt for sea shells, take pictures or drawings.

AFTERNOON PADDLE (3HRS)
Kayak in sheltered waters surrounded by forest draped mountains. You'll have time to pull up on a beach, hunt for sea shells, take pictures or drawings.

DAY PADDLE (6HRS)
A day paddle offers sightseeing to bird and seal sanctuaries and sculpted sandstone galleries. Even more time for a leisurely picnic, or swirling around the small chain of islands west of the Harbour. Ideal for intermediates or adventurous beginners.

SUNSET
(3 HRS)
Paddle in the warmth of the setting sun under crimson violet skies. A wonderful end to the day.

NIGHT or FULL MOON PADDLE (3HRS)
Under the stars, and moon you'll dip your paddle into the sea all aglow with bioluminescence.

Custom B&B tours
We can arrange a B&B kayak tour
package starting at $119.00 Cdn per person ( minimum 2 people) which includes
accomodations, breakfast and at least one 3 hour tour of your choice. Subject to availability. Phone or e-mail us for more details.

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 Travel directions to Galiano

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