Johnstone Strait Basecamp (30.50)

Location: Johnstone Strait
Price: $1269.00
Duration: 4 days/3 nights

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Departs from/arrives at: Quadra Island
Accomodations: Camping
Tour Type: Leisure Tour
Activity Level: Novice
Nearest Town/Village: Campbell River
Inclusions:
  • Kayaks double or single
  • Professional Guides
  • Kayak instruction
  • Safety equipment
  • Camping equipment and tents
  • Cooking equipment
  • Meals as stated on itinerary
  • Sleeping bag
  • Sheets
  • Thermarest
  • Dry bags
  • Group hydrophone
  • Parking
  • Scenic water taxi journey to camp from Campbell River/Quadra Island.
Exclusions: GST
Guest Parking: Yes Details: Free parking is available on Quadra island or in Campbell River
First Nations:
Additional Information:
This 4 day basecamp kayak tour is perfect for guests who wish to focus on paddling and taking in the beautiful scenery at the basecamp rather than spending time packing up everyday. For over 40 years this basecamp has been the premier location to view killer whales in the Johnstone Strait, dating back to a time when a group of musicians camped here in the \'60\'s. From the very bluffs where our tents now stand, the musicians would play their wind and string instruments as a way of communicating with the killer whales. They chose this site above all others for its unmatched beauty and of course the close proximity to the areas frequented by killer whales. Kayak tours have been operating at this site for over 10 years now, and everything is polished right down to the shower with the ocean view to the wood fired hot tub overlooking the Johnstone Strait. Don't miss out on this unforgettable experience.

Itinerary

  • Day
    1

    On the night prior to the tour, guests gather together at the historic Heriot Bay Inn on beautiful Quadra Island for a pre-trip meeting to answer any last minute questions and to ensure that all guests have the right equipment for the tour. This meeting also gives guests a chance to talk to one of their guides, and to acquaint themselves with the other guests on the tour.

    The next morning, on Day 1 of the tour, guests are picked up by our van at their accommodation on Quadra Island and are transported 10 minutes to our water taxi. The group then boards the board and we enjoy a 2 hour scenic ride up to our basecamp in Johnstone Strait (the same route that is often frequented by killer whales). After a brief orientation and warm welcome to your new home away from home, we all enjoy a lunch together. After lunch we begin the introduction to kayaking, and we head out for our first afternoon paddle. That night we indulge in a wild pacific salmon dinner and we can gather around the campfire or relax in the hot tub to bring the day to a close.

    Meals: Lunch, Dinner

    Accomodation: Camping

  • Day
    2

    On day 2, after our hearty breakfast we will paddle up the scenic coast in search of wildlife. During low tides we will also keep a look out for black bears as they are known to forage along the shores rummaging for intertidal snacks. We may choose to hike up a forest trail to the high viewing platforms used by researchers studying the habits of the whales. Lunches will be savoured on one of the many beaches of the Strait. Sightings of Dalls porpoises, sea lions, cormorants, marbled murrelets, and the eminent bald eagle are common. Although these days can be packed full of activities, there is also plenty of opportunity for those who want to kick back and relax at camp and enjoy the stunning surroundings, including our wood-fired hot tub.

    Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

    Accomodation: Camping

  • Day
    3

    On day 3 guests may chose to sit back and relax at the beautiful basecamp or they can join in on another full day of paddling and exploring along the coast. We will chose our route for this day depending on the route that was taken on day 2 so that we get a new experience.

    Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

    Accomodation: Camping

  • Day
    4

    Day 4 is our last day to enjoy the marine environment of the Johnstone Strait. Guests can go out for a peaceful morning paddle, and arrive back to camp for a pancake breakfast. Our boat transport will pick us up by late morning, and we will have our lunch onboard as we travel back to Quadra Island/Campbell River. Our approximate return time is around 4:30pm, but note that this cannot be guaranteed as the weather and wildlife will play a role in determining when we get back. We will then say goodbye to the group and return to our respective accommodation to relax for the night.

    Meals: Breakfast, Lunch

    Accomodation: Accommodation by Customer

North America: 1.800.255.5057 - UK: 0.800.051.6364 - Australia: 1.800.143.454

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As featured in National Geographic Adventure

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