Sea Kayaking Tours in Haida Gwaii, British Columbia

On this exhilarating 6-day sea kayak expedition, we will paddle from Gandll K'in Gwaay.yaay (Hotspring Island) to K'iid Xyangs K'iidaay (Burnaby Narrows), experiencing two of Gwaii Haanas' most memorable highlights in one trip!  This tour is designed for intermediate paddlers, so expect a challenge. Each day, we'll paddle as much as 15 km or more.  Don't worry if you don't have much experience, your guides are there to show you the ropes.

The 6-day, all-inclusive K'iid Xyangs K'iidaay (Burnaby Narrows), sea kayak expedition has a more relaxed pace than the longer 8-day tours and will allow you to paddle through the astonishingly beautiful Dolomite narrows, one of the most diverse intertidal zones in Canada. These clear waters are teeming with life, a variety of exotic colors from over 200 marine invertebrates, and many different large kelps and seaweeds. This tour is the perfect way for you to intimately explore Moresby and Burnaby Islands. 

The sections of kayaking around K'iid Xyangs K'iidaay (Burnaby Narrows allow for incredible paddling through secluded bays, exposed coastlines, and sheltered inlets, which offer the potential to hike inland to find waterfalls and stunning views of the east and west coast of Moresby Island. We usually camp at three different sites on this tour as this 6-day/5-night trip is about exploration in all the hidden nooks that Gwaii Haanas has to offer around Burnaby Island, Juan Perez Sound, and Skincuttle Inlet.  This tour is a mix of expedition travel and relaxed-paced paddling to explore the coastline of the northern part of Gwaii Haanas.  Enjoy a traverse down Moresby Island towards K'iid Xyangs K'iidaay (Burnaby Narrows) to enjoy the stunning scenery and intertidal life.  Camp in old-growth forests, areas that have never been logged! The trees in Gwaii Haanas are likely to be the largest you have ever seen.

Day One:

Our adventure begins in Sandspit, British Columbia, home to Haida Gwaii's one of two airports. As the sun rises, we prepare for an exciting day ahead. Guests are collected from Seaport B&B at 7:30 am (or alternative Sandspit lodging) and driven to Moresby Camp in a one-hour van ride. At Moresby Camp, a spacious Zodiac-style speed boat awaits to transport you to the central part of Gwaii Haanas via a breathtaking 1.5 hour coastal cruise along Moresby Island.

Our unforgettable kayaking journey commences at Ramsay Island, located across from the warm sulfur pools of Hotsprings Island. This prime location allows for an afternoon visit to the hot springs. Afterward, we'll conduct a kayak and safety briefing to ensure you're fully prepared to explore the mesmerizing waters surrounding Hotsprings Island.

Days Two to Five:

On days two through five, we will embark on full-day kayaking adventures, navigating the rough shores of Moresby Island towards SGaay Kun Gwaay.yaay (Burnaby Island) and the renowned K'iid Xyangs K'iidaay (Burnaby Narrows) in Haida Gwaii. This breathtaking region is teeming with humpback whales, ancient murrelets, sea stars, anemones, crabs, kelp, and the intriguing Lewis moon snails. As we paddle along this stunning coastline, we will have ample opportunities to venture into serene inlets and discover hidden beaches – perfect locations for lunch breaks or even camping. 

The time we have allocated for this journey grants us the flexibility to thoroughly explore the bays, inlets, and channels this diverse route has to offer. In particular, K'iid Xyangs K'iidaay (Burnaby Narrows) is a treasure trove of biodiversity within Haida Gwaii due to its rich intertidal marine life, making it an unforgettable part of our excursion. With so much to experience along our path, the possibilities are truly endless.

Day Six:

On the final day of your kayak journey, enjoy a leisurely breakfast while reminiscing on the incredible experiences you've had. A sleek, ocean worthy zodiac will be waiting for you near Xiina Gwaay.yaay (Ramsay Island), ready to whisk you away on an exhilarating ride back to Sandspit. 

You will enjoy a farewell dinner at Raincoast Breads in Sandspit, the first Canadian establishment permitted to use foraged wild ingredients, this exquisite dining experience is an extraordinary way to conclude your Haida Gwaii adventure.

Experience the breathtaking wonders of Northern Gwaii Haanas National Park Reserve on an unforgettable 6-day kayaking adventure. Delve into the rich history of the ancient Haida civilization as we visit their historical village sites under the leadership of the Haida Watchman.  This tour is designed for intermediate paddlers so expect a challenge. Each day, we'll paddle as much as 15 km or more.  Don't worry if you don't have much experience, your guides are there to show you the ropes.

Gwaii Haanas National Park Reserve is a world-renowned haven for kayaking enthusiasts, offering awe-inspiring landscapes, pristine wilderness, incredible wildlife, and access to significant Haida cultural sites who have been living here since time immemorial.

Our Haida Watchmen Site kayak tour takes you on an unforgettable journey between Xiina Gwaay.yaay (Ramsay Island) and T’aanuu Gwaay (Tanu Island) in the northern area of Gwaii Haanas National Park Reserve and Haida Heritage Site. This route offers various kayaking options, allowing you to explore sheltered channels, hidden bays, and rugged coastlines.

Experience the wonders of the Haida Watchmen Tour as you become captivated by an array of immersive watchmen sites spread across the majestic bays and islands of Gwaii Haanas National Park. Marvel at the stunning landscapes while indulging in a soothing soak at the natural hot springs of K'iid Xyangs K’iidaay (Hotsprings Island) in Juan Perez Sound as we conclude this incredible adventure.

We will relocate to a new campsite every day, taking in the beauty of secret inlets, ancient forests, and seemingly endless shorelines. Migrating birds serenade us throughout our journey, enhancing the otherworldly experience. This once-in-a-lifetime expedition is crafted for kayakers eager to uncover both the natural and cultural marvels of Haida Gwaii within six days. Exploring Gwaii Haanas National Park Reserve and Haida Heritage Site by kayak is the most respectful and non-intrusive mode of transportation in this extraordinary region.

Day One:

Your adventure commences early in the morning in Sandspit, British Columbia, as we collect you from the Seaport B&B at 7:30 am or any other Sandspit lodging of your preference. You'll be comfortably transported to Moresby Camp in a cozy van. Following this, prepare to board an exhilarating Zodiac-style speedboat and experience a magnificent 45-minute journey along the picturesque coastline of Moresby Island toward the northern tip of Gwaii Haanas. This is where our incredible kayaking expedition unfolds. 

We will set up first camp of our trip upon arriving at K'ang Guu Gwaay.yaay (Kunga Island), situated opposite the ancient village site of T'aanuu Gwaay (Tanu Island). Subsequently, an afternoon kayak and safety orientation will ensure you are ready to discover the captivating waters surrounding K'ang Guu Gwaay.yaay (Kunga Island and T'aanuu Gwaay (Tanu Island).

Days Two to Five:

Our journey begins at the northern tip of Gwaii Haanas National Park Reserve and Haida Heritage Site, from where we'll head south. Early on, we'll have the opportunity to explore the village of T'aanuu Llnagaay (Tanu Island). Weather permitting, we'll navigate along the picturesque and exposed coastline of Lyell Island to Hik'yah GaawGa (Windy Bay), a significant Haida Watchman site that became renowned in the 1980s to protect "South Moresby" and ultimately led to the establishment of Gwaii Haanas National Park Reserve.

The Haida Heritage tour boasts an array of enchanting kayaking routes for you to select from. As our adventure draws to a close, we'll find ourselves in the serene Juan Perez Sound, an area teeming with inlets, channels, and diverse ecosystems inhabited by an abundance of wildlife and migratory birds. Picturesque camping spots abound within this region. To top it all off, we'll conclude the tour with a rejuvenating soak in the warm waters of Gandll K'in Gwaay.yaay (Hotspring Island).

Day Six:

On the final day of our kayak adventure, take the opportunity to reflect on your experiences during a relaxed breakfast. A swift and ocean-worthy zodiac vessel will arrive at the shore near Xiina Gwaay.yaay (Ramsay Island), primed to transport you on an exciting trip back to Sandspit. As you glide towards your destination, immerse yourself in the stunning landscape and let the invigorating sea breeze caress your face. En route to Moresby Camp, we'll make a pit stop at the charming village of K’uuna Llnagaay, (Skedans), a historic Haida Watchman site in Skedans Bay.

You will enjoy a farewell dinner at Raincoast Breads in Sandspit, the first Canadian establishment permitted to use foraged wild ingredients, this exquisite dining experience is an extraordinary way to conclude your Haida Gwaii adventure.

Discover the breathtaking seclusion of Kunghit Island during a 6-day journey through Southern Gwaii Haanas, with an aim to visit the ancient village site of SGang Gwaay and secluded beaches.  Embark on an unforgettable adventure through the unblemished southern region of Gwaii Haanas National Park Reserve & Haida Heritage Site. The pure surroundings enable us to deeply engage with the untamed wilderness up close. This tour is designed for intermediate paddlers, so expect a challenge.  There may be days where we paddle in swells that can be 1-2 meters.  Some kayaking experience is an asset.  Routes and itineraries remain very flexible to accommodate changeable West Coast conditions.

Our authentic expedition kicks off as we navigate by kayak to explore the rich temperate rainforests, housing awe-inspiring ancient cedar, spruce, and hemlock trees that have been undisturbed by contemporary logging activities.  Our main objective is to reach the historic village site of SGang Gwaay while diving into various kayaking experiences within this revered Gwaii Haanas National Reserve. This isolated area, boasting numerous campsites and beaches bordering the waters of SGang Gwaay, showcases the distinct allure of Gwaii Haanas. We will diligently delve into every facet of this captivating and varied shoreline, cherishing each instance while witnessing the plentiful native wildlife.

Day One:

Our adventure begins at the crack of dawn in Sandspit, British Columbia. Guests will be picked up from Seaport B&B or any other preferred accommodation in Sandspit at 7:30 am, ready for an invigorating one-hour van ride to Moresby Camp. Afterward, we'll board a remarkable zodiac-style speedboat, which will take us on a three-hour ride to the southernmost part of Gwaii Haanas.

As the afternoon approaches, we draw closer to the charming town of Rose Harbour, and excitement builds. Nestled across from Rose Harbour lies the starting point of our extraordinary kayaking expedition. Here, we partake in a kayak and camp orientation while immersing ourselves in the captivating atmosphere of this historical town. Rose Harbour's captivating location serves as an excellent launch pad for our exploration and subsequent journey toward the village site of SGang Gwaay.

Days Two to Five:

During the initial stages of our journey, we take our kayaks and explore the southern waters near SGang Gwaay, encountering various bird species such as Tufted and Horned puffins, rhinoceros auklets, and pigeon guillemots along the rugged shoreline. We must keep our eyes peeled for humpback whales playfully swimming nearby, as they are known to frequent these waters in search of herring during the summer months.  We are then enchanted by unspoiled coastlines seldom seen by others, marveling at the contrasting beauty of towering headlands and serene bays that offer stunning views of the captivating Gordon Islands.

The crown jewel of our expedition is a visit to the ancient Haida village of SGang Gwaay Llnagaay (Ninstints) on Anthony Island. Designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, this extraordinary place features magnificent mortuary and memorial poles that serve as guardians over the remains of longhouses. During our stay, Haida Watchmen join us to impart powerful stories about their ancestors while providing an unrivaled glimpse into history.

As we continue our daily progress paddling towards different campsites throughout the southern region of Gwaii Haanas, we allot 6 days to reach SGang Gwaay and return in order to fully experience the impressive mortuary and memorial poles that can still be found standing.

While incorporating more information about this area we just traversed, our adventure eventually comes full circle, bringing us back to where it all began.

Day Six:

On the final day of your kayak journey, enjoy a leisurely breakfast while reminiscing on the incredible experiences you've had. Excitement fills the air as the speedboat pulls up to the Rose Harbour area, ready to whisk you and your group away to Sandspit. If conditions allow, you may even get to journey back through Burnaby Narrows. After a day of adventure, you'll be returned to your cozy Seaport B&B - or another Sandspit accommodation of your choosing.

You will enjoy a farewell dinner at Raincoast Breads in Sandspit, the first Canadian establishment permitted to use foraged wild ingredients, this exquisite dining experience is an extraordinary way to conclude your Haida Gwaii adventure.

Explore the stunning landscape of Southern Gwaii Haanas National Park Reserve on an enthralling 8-day wilderness adventure, culminating in a visit to the ancient Haida village site of SGang Gwaay, a renowned UNESCO World Heritage Site.  This tour is designed for intermediate paddlers so expect a challenge. Some days, we'll paddle as much as 20 km or more.

Our primary focus will be reaching the ancient village site of SGang Gwaay as we further explore a variety of kayaking opportunities within this esteemed National Park Reserve. This remote region, featuring numerous campsites and beaches along the waters of SGang Gwaay, exemplifies the unique attractions Gwaii Haanas has to offer. We will take our time to uncover every aspect of this fascinating and diverse coastline, relishing each moment while observing the abundant indigenous wildlife.

Day One:

Our journey commences at the break of dawn in Sandspit, British Columbia. Guests will be collected from Seaport B&B or another accommodation of their choice in Sandspit at 7:30 am, eager for an exhilarating one-hour van ride to Moresby Camp. Following this, we board an impressive zodiac-style speedboat that will transport us to the southern edge of Gwaii Haanas.

As noon approaches, excitement intensifies as we near the globally renowned narrows of K'iid Xyangs K’iidaay (Burnaby Narrows). Our extraordinary kayaking experience begins just south of K'iid Xyangs K’iidaay (Burnaby Narrows), offering an ideal starting point and potential visit to the biodiverse narrows before journeying southward. We'll conduct a kayak and camp orientation while exploring the area.

Days Two to Seven:

Embark on an unforgettable Southern Gwaii Haanas kayak expedition as you traverse the stunning waters between K'iid Xyangs K’iidaay (Burnaby Narrows) and SGang Gwaay, a Haida Heritage and UNESCO World Heritage Site, situated at the southern tip of Gwaii Haanas National Park Reserve. Our thoughtfully planned itinerary promises unparalleled wildlife sightings, breathtaking landscapes, and serene campsite locales.

Allow yourself to be captivated by pristine shores rarely witnessed by others as you appreciate the splendor of the juxtaposed headlands and peaceful bays with a view of the enchanting Gordon Islands. The aquatic wildlife is equally amazing, featuring thriving populations of humpback whales, Steller sea lions, and tufted puffins inhabiting this vibrant ecosystem.

The true centerpiece of our journey lies within the age-old Haida village of SGang Gwaay Llnagaay on Anthony Island. As a UNESCO World Heritage Site, this remarkable location boasts majestic carved mortuary and memorial poles that stand guard over the remnants of longhouses. Knowledgeable Haida Watchmen accompany our tour, sharing profound narratives about their ancestors and granting unparalleled access to history.  With each day comes new discoveries as we paddle towards various campsites throughout our approximately 40 NM (75 km) expedition.

As our adventure reaches its conclusion, we arrive at the captivating Rose Harbour locale on the penultimate day. With anticipation mounting, we save the most awe-inspiring site for last—an evening spent near the northern tip of Kunghit Island by Rose Harbour.

Day Eight:

On the final day of your kayak journey, enjoy a leisurely breakfast while reminiscing on the incredible experiences you've had. Excitement fills the air as the speedboat pulls up to the Rose Harbour area, ready to whisk you and your group away to Sandspit. If conditions allow, you may even get to journey back through K'iid Xyangs K’iidaay (Burnaby Narrows). After a day of adventure, you'll be returned to your cozy Seaport B&B - or another Sandspit accommodation of your choosing.

You will enjoy a farewell dinner at Raincoast Breads in Sandspit, the first Canadian establishment permitted to use foraged wild ingredients, this exquisite dining experience is an extraordinary way to conclude your Haida Gwaii adventure.