Kayaking with Killer Whales from an Oceanfront Basecamp

Your kayaking basecamp adventure starts early the next morning, so ideally you would spend this night in Telegraph Cove, or in nearby Port McNeill or Port Hardy.

You will meet up with your guides in Telegraph Cove at 9:30 am.  The water taxi departs at 10:00 am for Robson Bight Basecamp. There is parking on site in Telegraph Cove.  Lunch and dinner are included.

If weather conditions allow, we will navigate the Johnstone Strait and proceed towards Blackney Passage, which is renowned for its abundant population of feeding humpback whales. This particular area is characterized by powerful currents, making it an ideal spot to pause for lunch while observing various marine mammals.  Breakfast, lunch and dinner are included.

We will navigate across the Johnstone Strait towards the Qwiquallaaq/ Boat Bay Conservancy. The Boat Bay Conservancy safeguards forested terrain, sheltered bays and inlets, petite islands, and cliffs, which will serve as our domain for the day, should the weather remain favorable. Moreover, we have the opportunity to embark on a hike to the Eagle Eye Research Station, a seasonal monitoring center and hub for Orca whale research.  Breakfast, lunch and dinner are included.

In the morning, there will be an opportunity to embark on a sunrise paddle in your kayak before breakfast. The water taxi will arrive around 11:00 am.  On the way back to Telegraph Cove, we venture toward Blackfish Sound and take a fascinating 3-hour whale watching and sightseeing tour. We will land in Telegraph Cove around 2 pm. Breakfast and lunch are included.

The Johnstone Strait is a wonderland of sights and sounds, and whale watching is the perfect way to experience it. From July to September, you can witness Northern Resident Orcas feasting on salmon in their territorial waters, while Transient Orcas, who prefer other marine life, mingle with them in our coastal waters. With over 300 Killer Whales swimming freely in the Johnstone Strait during the summer months, seeing these majestic creatures in their natural habitat is a true spectacle.

Witnessing orcas in their natural habitat is a truly privileged and exhilarating experience that will stay with you for a lifetime. Imagine perching atop an ocean kayak, just inches from the water's surface, and observing these magnificent animals as they emerge and retreat, their dorsal fins slicing through the waves. It's a breathtaking reminder of just how incredible the natural world can be.

As much as we all crave a closer encounter with these mighty creatures, guests' and the whales' safety is always your guide’s top priority. That's why your guides adhere to the Cetus Society's whale watching guidelines, which require all vessels and sightseers to maintain a 200-metre distance from the animals. While Orca sightings remain unpredictable, we let them approach us when they choose to do so - producing those once-in-a-lifetime moments that will always be treasured!

A majestic rainforest of towering cedars and mighty firs envelopes the rugged and rocky shoreline of the basecamp in Johnstone Strait. The sleeping tents are nestled into private little nooks, artfully scattered throughout the sprawling forest, presenting a breathtaking view of the beach and the bay beyond. There's nothing quite as tranquil as waking up in your tent to the melodious chirping of songbirds and basking in the mossy and earthy scent of the surrounding wilderness after a day of exhilarating kayaking with the magnificent whales. Fall asleep to the hypnotic and soothing sound of leaping salmon in the dead of the night in complete and absolute darkness, cocooned by the verdant canopy of this majestic forest.

The stable wooden platforms upon which each tent is built securely, come cushioned with tent pads, sleekly waterproofed, and generously sized to accommodate even single guests in utmost style and luxury. Couples, meanwhile, can choose a commodious tent for four, effortlessly spreading out as they look out to the breathtaking shoreline. The nights can get chilly, but don't worry, you won't even feel the nip of the night thanks to warm and snug sleeping bags.

The camp also has showers with on demand hot water, composting toilets, a hot tub, a covered dining and lounge platform with tables, chairs and a sofa, plus camp chairs for relaxing around the campfire.

Your guides are experienced expedition leaders, with designation in SKGABC sea kayaking leadership and are fully certified in advanced wilderness first aid and CPR.  They take your safety very seriously and always consider your personal comfort zone.  Not only are they leaders in their field, but they are also patient teachers and offer a holistic approach towards safety and learning.  They are the most experienced guides in the region, with over 50+ years of navigating the Johnstone Strait. As full-time residents of the region, they possess an unwavering passion for spotting wildlife and sharing their in-depth knowledge of the area with you. You are in good hands.