Kayaking with Orcas

Bite-sized trip

Itinerary:
Orca Base Camp, Port McNeill
Duration:
5 days / 4 nights
Price:
from £ 239.- per person (excluding flights)

Fancy really getting away from it all and experiencing the ruggedness Vancouver Island has to offer? This trip will take you off into the wilderness for a couple of nights camping in the forest. Kayak through the fjords and inlets in search of Orcas and take short hikes to explore the flora and fauna of the area. Feel immersed in the majestic nature and weathered coastline of this little-explored area.

This unique camp only starts on Fridays.

Day 1 – Arrival in Port Mcneill / Telegraph Cove

Today you have quite a long journey to Port McNeill or Telegraph Cove. As you head north, the towns and infrastructure are replaced by wilderness and villages. If you’re arriving from Tofino, take a walk along the Port of Campbell River. The area is known for salmon so you’ll see people fishing on the pier. There are many restaurants and shops in the area, a nice treat before heading to a secluded bay for the next few days.

Day 2 – Whale Interpretive Centre & arrival to camp

This morning, your Orca adventure begins! You’ll meet your fellow travellers, explore the area, and visit the Whale Interpretive Centre. Later, a water taxi will take you to the camp, where you’ll spend the next 2 nights. You’ll say hello to the guides and get a brief introduction. The first dinner is served with a view of the water and maybe a view of an Orca if you’re lucky!

Day 3 – Sea kayaking and hiking

The waters off the coast of British Columbia are home to 250 Orcas that spend the summer months in the Johnstone Strait. After breakfast, you’ll board your double kayaks, and head out with your guide. You’ll have the opportunity to observe them in their natural habitat. Depending on the weather conditions and, of course, the whale’s movements, you’ll alternate between sea kayaks and short hikes on shore.

It’s then time to stop for a picnic lunch before trying to spot these big sea creatures again. You’ll paddle south towards the Robson Bight Eco Reserve, it’s a truly unique experience and will get your heart pounding! You’ll also likely spot other animals in this area, from eagles to sea lions and otters. In the evening, you can sit by the campfire and exchange your experience with your fellow travellers whilst winding down with a bottle of wine. Then, all that’s left to do is to fall asleep to the soft sounds of the water.

Day 4 – Departure from Orca Camp

Today, a hearty breakfast awaits, then it’s time for another whale-watching morning. Afterwards you can stroll along the beach with your guide who’ll tell you about the unique wildlife, nature and the ecological reserve here. In the afternoon you’ll be transferred back to Port McNeill – take a look across the Johnstone Strait for a last glimpse of the Orcas as you go. You’ll stay another night in a lodge nearby before driving on the next day.

Day 5 – Departure from Port Mcneill

After two nights at the camp, you’ll really enjoy the comfort and warmth of a hotel bed. If two nights isn’t enough for you though, we can always add an additional night at camp. You’ll likely be heading to back to Vancouver today, or if you want to spend more time on Vancouver Island, then we suggest heading to Quadra Island to kayak at sunset.