Kayaking

See the coast up close

BC’s wild Central Coast reaches from above Rivers Inlet to include the southern end of Princess Royal Island. First Nations’ villages, rich in heritage, speckle the coast and welcome travelers to the private coves and inlets, pristine beaches and rocky shores. 15,000 kilometers of awe-inspiring coastline, a jumble of deep fjords and a scattering of emerald islands enchant and offer endless exploration opportunities by boat, ferry, yacht, and of course, by kayak.

Bella Bella and the Hakai Luxvbalis Conservancy Area

Bella Bella and the Hakai Luxvbalis Conservancy Area are located 115 km southwest of Bella Coola. Kayakers are attracted by their rugged coastlines, sandy beaches, coves, lagoons and inlets. Hakai encompasses just under 123,000 hectares making it the largest marine protected area on the BC coast. This is also the historic settlement area for the Heiltsuk people. Paddling here you may encounter sea bird colonies, whales, sea otters, sea lions, dolphins and porpoises. On shore, you can often spot black bears and black-tailed deer.

Begin your trip in Bella Bella (McLoughlin Bay). Visit the area's many islands, camping on isolated, sandy beaches. Only very experienced kayakers should attempt Queen's Sound and Goose Island. Going on a guided trip is highly recommended.

Access: There is no road access to Bella Bella or to the Hakai Luxvbalis Conservancy Area. Take the BC Ferries Discovery Coast Passage from Bella Coola (or Port Hardy) to Bella Bella or Shearwater. This is a 10-12 hour trip and the ferry does not run daily. Kayakers can also take advantage of the ferry's "wet launch" service. With advance booking, kayakers can be picked up/dropped off between ports along the ferry route. Arranging a flight to Bella Bella is also possible.

Rated: Moderate to difficult

Approximate time required: 5-21 days

 

Klemtu

The area around Klemtu is one of the most expansive - yet isolated - regions of BC's Central Coast. Across a 3-million-hectare area, you'll find only 3,500 people populating seven towns. The area forms part of the Great Bear Rainforest and the historic territory of the Kitasoo people. Over 100 ancient cultural sites can be found here. Kayakers should plan to spend 5-10 days exploring the area’s inlets, coves and beautiful sandy beaches. En route, you’ll spot sea birds, whales and other marine mammals as well as bears. Trip highlights include Laredo Sound, Fjordland Recreation Area and Princess Royal Island, home to the famous white Kermode, or Spirit Bear. The best time to visit is from June to September – ferry service is seasonal, while weather and winds are more favourable during the summer months. Most kayakers launch in Klemtu, located 70 km from Bella Bella. Rentals and multi-day guided tours are also available here, featuring camping or wilderness-hut options. Going on a guided trip is highly recommended.

Access: There is no road access to Klemtu. Take the BC Ferries Discovery Coast Passage from Bella Coola (or Port Hardy) to Klemtu. This is a 17-hour ferry trip that does not run daily. Kayakers can also take advantage of the ferry's "wet launch" service. With advance booking, kayakers can be picked up/dropped off between ports along the ferry route. Float plane service to Klemtu is also possible.

Rated: Moderate to difficult

Approximate time required: 5-10 days

A word or two on safety:

  • Take head winds and tides into consideration - they can significantly increase the duration of your trip
  • Novice paddlers may be required to paddle with a friend
  • Life jackets are mandatory in BC